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Graduate Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career engineer with hands-on Eng View and AutoCAD experience who is eager to grow their skills in corrugate structural design, retail display ...

Civil Engineer

Gary, IN · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

There are no uniforms, no drilling, and no service obligation until after you graduate. Simply work ... structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find ...

Civil Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

There are no uniforms, no drilling, and no service obligation until after you graduate. Simply work ... structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find ...

Civil Engineer

Hammond, IN · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

There are no uniforms, no drilling, and no service obligation until after you graduate. Simply work ... structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find ...

Civil Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

There are no uniforms, no drilling, and no service obligation until after you graduate. Simply work ... structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find ...

Showing results 41-60

Graduate Structural Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51.5K

$102.4K

$156.6K

How much do graduate structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate structural engineer in Chicago, IL is $102,396.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $116,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and tasks can a graduate structural engineer expect to work on during their first year?

As a Graduate Structural Engineer, you can expect to assist with the design and analysis of building and infrastructure projects, such as offices, bridges, or industrial facilities. Typical tasks include preparing technical drawings, developing calculation reports, and supporting senior engineers with structural assessments and site inspections. You will likely collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including architects, contractors, and other engineers, gaining valuable exposure to different stages of the project lifecycle. This hands-on experience offers insight into real-world challenges and helps build a strong foundation for future career progression.

What is a graduate structural engineer?

A Graduate Structural Engineer is an entry-level engineering professional who assists in the design, analysis, and assessment of structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure structural integrity, safety, and compliance with regulations. Typical tasks include creating calculations, using design software, preparing technical drawings, and conducting site inspections. This role provides valuable experience for obtaining professional engineering accreditation and advancing within the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the graduate structural engineer position, and why are they important?

A Graduate Structural Engineer should have a degree in civil or structural engineering, strong analytical skills, and a solid understanding of engineering principles. Familiarity with structural analysis software (such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SAP2000) and knowledge of local building codes are commonly expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help graduates effectively collaborate with project teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure safe, efficient designs and smooth project execution in dynamic engineering environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Graduate Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Graduate Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Graduate Structural Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Graduate Structural Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,396 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

$76K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Hanson Values
Integrity | Commitment | Quality | Relationships | Innovation
If you're looking for a firm that encourages innovative thinking and challenges you every day, with an opportunity to learn and advance, a career at Hanson is right for you. The belief in sustainability within our company's practices creates a focus on client success and partnerships that are important to our communities and our environment.
A Day in Life of a Bridge Engineer (EIT) at Hanson
Here's a snapshot of what you would do in this role:
  • Assist and participate in design of bridges and structures
  • Assist and participate in the inspection of in-service bridges and structures
  • Conduct analysis and design, calculation, preparation of specifications, details, and construction plans
  • Assist and participate in construction engineering
  • Conduct observation and documentation of construction activity
  • Conduct evaluation of construction for compliance with contract documents
  • Interpret plans for design intent
  • Other duties as assigned

What We're Looking For
We feel the following qualifications would set you up for success in this role:
Skills:
  • Experience with MicroStation preferred
  • Experience with MS Office Suite preferred
  • Experience with AutoCAD, LPILE and RISA 3-D a plus
  • Must be able to communicate complex technical concepts to engineers, clients, and/or public stakeholders
  • Must be able to build effective relationships with internal and external client bases
  • Must be able to work independently and as a team member to problem solve and learn new technical skills
  • Interest in experiencing a variety of assignments is important

Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering
  • 18 credit hours of structural engineering coursework (may include design project credit hours if your role was structural). For those 6 or fewer credit hours short of the 18 credit hour requirement, proof of class enrollment to achieve this level is required (reimbursable).
  • The ability to sit for the 16-hour NCEES Structural exam
  • Registration as an Engineer Intern (EI) with the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation required or the ability to obtain in 6 months, or an equivalent registration from another jurisdiction recognized by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES)
  • Demonstrated excellence in academia
  • Candidate may be recent graduate or an experienced individual with up to (3) years of experience (salary commensurate with experience)
  • Candidates with a master's degree in structural engineering are preferred

Compensation range: $76,000 - $95,000
Benefits
Our focus on people means we offer a generous benefits program to help you create a solid foundation for health and security throughout your career, including:
  • Competitive compensation
  • Performance bonuses
  • 401(k) with matching contribution
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • Comprehensive health & well-being plans
  • Financial wellness plans
  • Work-life balance programs

Want to know more? Visit our benefits page for all the details.
Culture
We understand that selecting a job is about more than the day-to-day tasks. It's important to feel like you belong and safe to grow and progress along your career path. You'll find that at Hanson. We have an inclusive, diverse workforce awaiting to connect with you and numerous opportunities to cultivate your career, including:
  • Monthly educational webinars
  • Leadership training
  • Lunch & learn development sessions
  • 24/7 access to thousands of skill-building courses
  • Mentorship opportunities
  • Award-winning internship program
  • Employee recognition
  • And so much more!

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EEO - EMPLOYER
We do not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or agencies/staffing firms. Resumes are only accepted from recruiters and agency/staffing firms if a signed agreement is in place at the inception of the recruiting effort and authorized for a specified position.