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Government Structural Engineering Jobs in California

Senior Structural Engineer

Poway, CA

$102K - $139K/yr

Summary Our client is a specialized structural engineering consultancy providing exclusive design ... Interface with government stakeholders, reviewers, and project managers * Support projects for ...

Summary Our client is a specialized structural engineering consultancy providing exclusive design ... Interface with government stakeholders, reviewers, and project managers * Support projects for ...

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Structural Engineer

El Segundo, CA ยท On-site

$68 - $75/hr

Specific structural engineering specialties may include dynamics and loads, stability, stress ... Identify and mitigate safety risks in accordance with company and state/government standards

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Showing results 21-40

Government Structural Engineering information

See California salary details

$49.3K

$98.1K

$150K

How much do government structural engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for government structural engineering in California is $98,098.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Government Structural Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectGovernment Structural EngineeringCivil Engineering
CredentialsEngineering degree, PE license, specialized structural certificationsEngineering degree, PE license, broad civil engineering certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, public infrastructure projects, regulatory settingsConstruction sites, consulting firms, private sector projects
Industry UsageDesign and inspection of government buildings, bridges, and infrastructureWide range of infrastructure including roads, water systems, and buildings

Government Structural Engineering focuses on designing and inspecting public infrastructure within government agencies, requiring specialized structural credentials. Civil Engineering covers a broader scope of infrastructure projects across various sectors. Both roles require similar licenses but differ in project focus and work environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government structural engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Structural Engineer, you need a bachelor's or master's degree in civil or structural engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, and a solid understanding of building codes and structural analysis principles. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, SAP2000, and government project management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for ensuring public safety, regulatory compliance, and the successful delivery of government infrastructure projects.

What are some common challenges faced by structural engineers working in government agencies?

Structural engineers in government roles often encounter unique challenges such as balancing strict regulatory compliance with project deadlines, navigating complex stakeholder interests, and managing limited public-sector budgets. They may also need to coordinate with multiple departments, including transportation, environmental, and public safety teams, to ensure projects align with broader community goals. Additionally, government structural engineers are frequently involved in maintaining and upgrading aging infrastructure, which can require innovative problem-solving within established codes and standards.

What is government structural engineering?

Government structural engineering involves designing, analyzing, and overseeing the construction of public infrastructure such as bridges, buildings, dams, and roads. Structural engineers in government roles ensure that these structures comply with safety regulations, building codes, and environmental standards. They often work for federal, state, or local agencies, collaborating with architects, contractors, and other engineers to deliver safe and effective public projects. Their work helps protect communities and supports public welfare through reliable infrastructure.
What cities in California are hiring for Government Structural Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Government Structural Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Government Structural Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,098 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Structural Project Engineer (All Levels)

Northern Impact

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Overview
National Award-Winning Studio & Winner of Design Firm of the Year is actively seeking Structural Project Engineers of all levels to join their Anaheim, Los Angeles, or Rancho Cucamonga office. With over 19 offices across the U.S., the award-winning architecture + engineering firm specializes in K-12 through college/university, healthcare, sports and corporate business sectors across the U.S. The company has won over 500 design awards and is recognized for shaping learning environments for students and the community. It's well established culture has also led the firm being named to the list of "Best Places to Work." For over forty years, the multidisciplinary studio has created a client base of more than two-hundred clients, a list that includes university systems, hospital system, school districts, and Fortune 500 companies.
The Structural Division
The Structural Division specializes in comprehensive structural engineering planning and design services, including structural assessments and forensics investigations. Their engineers have extensive experience and knowledge of structural engineering services for education, commercial, religious, healthcare, sports & entertainment, hospitality, retail, and federal/government. They offer our employees a highly competitive salary and benefits package along with numerous opportunities to become involved in extra-curricular activities and organizations established through the firm.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
The Project Engineer will operate independently while receiving direct guidance from the Engineer of Record, contributing to the coordination and design of diverse structural projects throughout both design and construction phases. This role presents an outstanding opportunity for professional growth and career advancement within our forward-thinking structural engineering firm. They provide a highly competitive salary and benefits package. Success in this position requires an attentive, client-oriented individual with a flair for creative problem-solving.
  • Actively engage in coordination meetings with diverse stakeholders, including other disciplines, clients, and owners, and contribute to design review meetings.
  • Efficiently coordinate the design process to produce comprehensive construction documents within the specified project schedule and budget.
  • Skillfully prepare structural specifications, select construction procedures, determine materials and member sizes, and conduct all necessary calculations essential for design.
  • Play a crucial role in shop drawing reviews, responding to RFI's (requests for information), handling change proposal requests, and seamlessly incorporating changes into project documents.
  • Utilize strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey design and coordination elements to other members of the project team.
  • Conduct site observations and walks during construction, preparing detailed reports to ensure project alignment with design intent and specifications.

Education and Work Experience Requirements
  • Hold a Bachelor's degree in civil engineering with a Structural emphasis.
  • Bring a minimum of 6 years of full-time progressive experience in structural engineering.
  • Possess a Professional Engineering license (P.E.) is required.
  • Demonstrate a robust understanding of the California Building Code (CBC) and all relevant design codes such as ASCE, AISC, ACI, MSJC, NDS, etc.
  • Exhibit proficiency in widely-used structural engineering and office tools, including ETABS, SAFE, RISA, RAM, ENERCALC, Excel, Bluebeam, etc.
  • Showcase a high level of proficiency in performing complete gravity and lateral analyses using design software, along with preparing comprehensive structural engineering calculation packages.
  • Preferably have familiarity with educational projects and knowledge of DSA (California applicants only) requirements and processes.
  • Demonstrate expertise in the design of various structural materials, encompassing steel, concrete, masonry, wood, etc.
  • Exhibit proficiency in drafting and navigating Revit and AutoCAD, with a preference for experience in these platforms.
  • Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Additional Notes for California Applicants
While the majority of their projects focus on K-12, their portfolio extends to encompass higher education, government buildings, sports facilities, fire stations, and modifications to existing structures. While expertise in educational projects and familiarity with the DSA process (California only applicants) are advantageous qualities in potential candidates, they also welcome individuals with a strong academic background and relevant experience in general building design in California.
We look forward to receiving your application! Apply today to learn more.