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Junior Structural Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Reviews draft designs for compliance with federal, state and local regulations and signs off on ... Mentors more junior staff and develops them for future growth within the discipline and firm. * May ...

The Jr. Architectural Designer partners cross-functionally with teams across real estate ... MEP and structural systems. Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams and external ...

Sr. Structural Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$108K - $147K/yr

Its first stage is fully reusable, and the vehicle was designed from the beginning to be human ... Develop junior engineers into future technical leads through progressive delegation Minimum ...

New

Why Engineers Join Clark Pacific Many structural engineers spend years designing individual ... Mentor junior engineers. * Influence engineering standards and best practices. * Expand beyond ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Junior Structural Designer information

What is a junior structural designer?

Junior Structural Designers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing and analyzing structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. They work under the supervision of senior engineers or designers, helping to prepare drawings, models, and calculations using design software. Their role involves supporting project planning, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and learning industry best practices. Typically, Junior Structural Designers have a degree in civil or structural engineering, and they use their technical knowledge to contribute to the development of safe and efficient structures.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a junior structural designer expect in their first year?

As a Junior Structural Designer, you will typically work on a variety of projects ranging from small residential buildings to portions of larger commercial or infrastructure developments. Your responsibilities often include assisting with drafting structural plans, performing basic calculations under supervision, and ensuring that designs comply with relevant codes and standards. You’ll collaborate closely with senior engineers and architects, attend project meetings, and occasionally visit construction sites to observe how your designs are implemented. Early on, the focus will be on learning company protocols and software, gradually taking on more complex tasks as you gain experience.

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

To thrive as a Junior Structural Designer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, basic structural analysis, and a relevant degree such as civil or structural engineering. Proficiency in technical tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software, along with knowledge of building codes, is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn from experienced engineers are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure accurate designs, smooth project collaboration, and adherence to safety and regulatory standards.

What is the difference between Junior Structural Designer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectJunior Structural DesignerStructural Engineer
QualificationsAssociate degree or bachelor's in civil/structural engineering or designBachelor's or master's in civil/structural engineering, professional licensure often required
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, consulting agencies, construction companiesEngineering firms, consulting agencies, construction projects
ResponsibilitiesAssist in creating structural designs, drafting, and modelingDesign, analyze, and oversee structural systems, ensure code compliance

While Junior Structural Designers focus on drafting and assisting with design tasks under supervision, Structural Engineers take on more complex analysis, design, and project oversight responsibilities. Both roles are essential in the structural design process, but the engineer typically holds more advanced credentials and responsibilities.

What job categories do people searching Junior Structural Designer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Structural Designer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Junior Structural Designer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Junior Structural Designer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Structural Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Structural Engineer 5

CDM Smith

Sacramento, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


CDM Smith rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Company Overview

Check out this video and find out why our team loves to work here!
Join Us! CDM Smith – where amazing career journeys unfold.
Imagine a place committed to offering an unmatched employee experience. Where you work on projects that are meaningful to you. Where you play an active part in shaping your career journey. Where your co-workers are invested in you and your success. Where you are encouraged and supported to do your very best and given the tools and resources to do so. Where it’s a priority that the company takes good care of you and your family.
Our employees are the heart of our company. As an employer of choice, our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth and development for every employee. We value passionate individuals who challenge the norm, deliver world-class solutions and bring diverse perspectives. Join our team, and together we will make a difference and change the world.


Job Description
We are open to candidates based in our Irvine, Los Angeles, Carlsbad, Sacramento or Concord offices.With general direction, creates structural analyses and designs for reinforced concrete, structural steel, reinforced masonry, and other metal structures of basic to high complexity to meet client project requirements. * Directs the development of models, drawings, and specifications. *Reviews draft designs for compliance with federal, state and local regulations and signs off on completed designs. * Coordinates designs with other engineering disciplines. * Ensures that firm policies and practices are followed on all designs. * Performs structural condition assessments and confined space entries. * Contributes to firm's TKM by developing white papers and technical design documentation of new or special case designs, studies, etc. * Submits technical papers and designs for publishing to technical journals. * Collaborates with sales staff to create proposals in response to current and potential client requests for proposal (RFPs). * Reviews draft proposals for adherence to firm, industry, state, local and federal regulations and best practices. * Meets with current and potential future clients to review their current and future design needs. * May attend conferences, symposia, etc. to improve the visibility of the firm's products and services in collaboration with applicable sales staff. * Performs other duties as required. * Provides technical guidance and training to more junior staff. * Mentors more junior staff and develops them for future growth within the discipline and firm. * May supervise the work of junior engineers on project work.
Skills & Abilities
* Strong Knowledge of computer assisted design and drafting (CADD) 3D and 4D software and practices. * Expert Knowledge of engineer principles of design. * Expert Knowledge of Microsoft business software (excel, word, etc.). * Excellent verbal and written communications skills. * Strong knowledge of federal, state and local regulations. * Ability to arrange/layout structural systems and elements for strength, stability, constructability, and construction economy. * Strong knowledge of engineering analysis/design software (e.g. Revit, STAAD, RISA).
Qualifications
* Bachelor's degree in Civil, Architectural or Structural Engineering or related discipline. * Professional engineering (PE) license. * 7 years of related experience. * Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. * Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
Preferred Qualifications
* SE license- preferred* Experience working on water/ wastewater projects and/ or dam related projects
Amount of Travel Required
10% or less
EEO Statement
We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Background Check and Drug Testing Information
CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as "CDM Smith") reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.
Massachusetts Applicants
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Pay Range Min
USD $104,562.00
Pay Range Max
USD $182,978.00
Additional Pay Range Information
CDM Smith is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. This pay range is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels for the geographic location assigned to the position. In addition to geographic location, a candidate's salary is determined by several other factors including, but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, relevant work experience, skills, required certifications, and education/training.
Additional Compensation
All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Visa Sponsorship Available
No-We will not support sponsorship in the United States, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
Agency Disclaimer
All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Team will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.Qualifications:* Bachelor's degree in Civil, Architectural or Structural Engineering or related discipline. * Professional engineering (PE) license. * 7 years of related experience. * Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands. * Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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About CDM Smith

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CDM Smith is a distinguished name in the engineering and construction industry, providing insightful consulting, designing, and execution services. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, US, this full-service engineering and construction firm was founded in 1947 and has been contributing to the national and global infrastructure ever since. Serving across diverse sectors like transportation, environment, water, energy, and facilities, they have built a reputation for excellence. The company firmly stands on its mission of delivering lasting, superior solutions to the world's complex challenges, thereby ensuring their clients create a transformative impact.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1947