ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer Jobs in State College, PA

RETTEW

Water/Wastewater Engineer II

State College, PA · On-site

... contractor questions, and coordination of field issues. What We're Looking For Required * Bachelor ... standard engineering methods with increasing independence. * Strong written and verbal ...

Posted today

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsIndependent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer JobsIndependent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer Jobs in State College, PA

Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer information

See State College, PA salary details

$48.9K

$97.2K

$148.7K

How much do independent contractor telecom structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor telecom structural engineer in State College, PA is $97,213.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,200.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor telecom structural engineer?

An Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer is a professional who specializes in assessing, designing, and ensuring the structural integrity of telecommunications infrastructure, such as cell towers and antenna mounts. Unlike full-time employees, independent contractors work on a project-by-project basis, often for multiple clients or firms. Their responsibilities include conducting site inspections, providing engineering analysis, creating detailed reports, and recommending solutions to meet safety and regulatory standards. They play a critical role in supporting the expansion and maintenance of telecom networks.

How do independent contractor telecom structural engineers typically collaborate with project teams and clients while maintaining autonomy?

As an Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer, collaboration usually involves regular communication with project managers, architects, and other engineers to ensure that structural designs meet both technical and client-specific requirements. While you have the autonomy to set your own workflow and schedule, it's common to attend virtual or in-person meetings, provide progress updates, and share deliverables through project management platforms. Balancing independent work with active, transparent collaboration is key to meeting deadlines and maintaining strong client relationships in this role.

Are independent contractor telecom structural engineers in demand?

Independent contractor telecom structural engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for infrastructure upgrades and new installations in telecommunications. Their expertise in assessing and designing support structures is essential for network expansion, especially with the growth of 5G technology and fiber optic deployments.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer vs Telecom Structural Engineer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Telecom Structural EngineerTelecom Structural Engineer
CredentialsTypically required to have engineering licenses and certifications, such as PE (Professional Engineer)Usually holds engineering licenses and specialized certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks independently on projects, often remotely or on-site as neededEmployed by companies or firms, working in office or on-site
Employer & Industry UsageHired on a contractual basis for specific projects in telecom infrastructureWorks as a full-time or consulting engineer within telecom companies or engineering firms

In summary, an Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer operates independently on telecom infrastructure projects, often on a contractual basis, while a Telecom Structural Engineer is typically employed by a company or firm, working within a structured environment. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment status and work setup.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor telecom structural engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer, you need a solid foundation in structural engineering principles, a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with telecom industry standards, structural analysis software like RISA or STAAD.Pro, and relevant building codes is crucial. Strong project management, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set top professionals apart in this role. These competencies are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant design of telecom structures while managing independent project responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Telecom Structural Engineer jobs in State College, PA?

The most popular types of Telecom Structural Engineer jobs in State College, PA are:

What cities near State College, PA are hiring for Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities near State College, PA with the most Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer job openings:

Independent Contractor Telecom Structural Engineer jobs near you

Mechanical Structural Engineer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$105K - $173K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are seeking highly motivated Mechanical Engineers with strong structural analysis expertise to join our Energy Science and Power Systems Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. We support our national security and undersea warfare sponsors through the development and demonstration of science and technology with the expertise, tools, and processes to take concepts from the early developmental phase through transition to industry and the fleet.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Perform structural analysis using analytical methods and FEA tools to evaluate mechanical components, assemblies, and systems
  • Develop, validate, and improve mechanical designs from concept through production
  • Collaborate with research and development, manufacturing, and testing teams to resolve structural or mechanical challenges
  • Support prototype builds, design reviews, and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) activities
  • Identify opportunities for performance improvement, weight reduction, cost reduction, and increased reliability

Required Skills/Experience areas include:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline
  • Have a solid understanding of finite element analysis (FEA) principles, and analytical tools used in structural analysis and effectively communicate theories and results to colleagues, management, and sponsors, in both written and presentation format
  • Structural analysis and mechanical design principles
  • Finite Element Analysis (ANSYS, Abaqus, SolidWorks Simulation, etc.)
  • CAD software (Unigraphics, Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Creo, or similar)
  • Ability to express ideas successfully to drive understanding
  • Past success in writing white papers or reports
  • Excellent problem solving skills

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline
  • Dynamic, thermal, or fatigue analysis of complex engineering systems
  • Knowledge of material selection, manufacturing processes, and GD&T
  • Familiarity with testing and validation methods for structural components
  • Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required

Your working location will be located fully on-site located in State College, PA
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science5+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science2+ years of relevant experienceRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $105,900.00 - $173,844.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster
PA State Labor Law Poster
Penn State Policies
Copyright Information
Hotlines

What Penn State University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply