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Junior Structural Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Guidance and management of junior structural engineers and CAD staff. * Participation in interdisciplinary review of project deliverables. * Performing quality control review of design calculations ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL

$103K - $140K/yr

Support junior engineers, designers, drafters, and technicians as appropriate for the candidate's experience level. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Support junior engineers, designers, drafters, and technicians as appropriate for the candidate's experience level. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or ...

Senior Civil/Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL

$103K - $140K/yr

Mentor junior engineers. Position Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in civil/structural engineering. * 10-plus years of experience in structural engineering, with a focus on the assessment and ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Provide day-to-day technical guidance to junior and intermediate engineers, reviewing their work and supporting their development. * Coordinate structural engineering tasks within multidisciplinary ...

Coach and support junior staff in their development Requirements * Bachelor's degree in Architectural, Civil, or Structural Engineering required; Master's preferred * Diverse project design ...

Coach and support junior staff in their development Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in Architectural, Civil, or Structural Engineering required; Master's preferred * Diverse project design ...

Coach and support junior staff in their development Requirements * Bachelor's degree in Architectural, Civil, or Structural Engineering required; Master's preferred * Diverse project design ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$103K - $140K/yr

Provide day-to-day technical guidance to junior and intermediate engineers, reviewing their work and supporting their development. * Coordinate structural engineering tasks within multidisciplinary ...

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Showing results 1-20

Junior Structural Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$32.5K

$69.6K

$106.1K

How much do junior structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior structural engineer in Illinois is $69,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $77,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by junior structural engineers when starting their careers?

Junior Structural Engineers often encounter challenges such as interpreting complex design codes, managing time across multiple projects, and effectively communicating technical details to senior engineers and other stakeholders. Adjusting to the fast-paced nature of the construction industry and learning to balance fieldwork with office-based design tasks can also be demanding. However, many organizations support new engineers with mentorship, training sessions, and collaborative team environments to help them overcome these challenges and grow professionally.

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

AspectJunior Structural EngineerStructural Designer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering; EIT/FE certification often preferredBachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering; certification not always required
Work EnvironmentDesign, analysis, site visits, collaboration with engineers and architectsFocus on creating detailed structural drawings and specifications
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, consulting firmsArchitectural firms, engineering consultancies, construction companies

While both roles involve structural design, Junior Structural Engineers typically engage in analysis, site visits, and project collaboration, whereas Structural Designers focus primarily on creating detailed drawings and specifications. The roles often overlap in education and industry, but their core responsibilities differ slightly.

What does a junior structural engineer do?

A Junior Structural Engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and evaluating structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. They work under the supervision of more experienced engineers, preparing drawings, calculations, and reports. Their responsibilities often include site visits, reviewing construction materials, and ensuring compliance with safety and building codes. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates who are looking to gain practical experience and work towards professional licensure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior structural engineer?

To thrive as a Junior Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with structural analysis software such as AutoCAD, SAP2000, or ETABS, and progress toward EIT or FE certification, is often required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this collaborative field. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant structural designs and contribute to successful project delivery.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Junior Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Junior Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Junior Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Junior Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Structural Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,575 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Lead Structural Engineer-Transportation

HR Green

Mchenry, IL • On-site

$101K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


HR Green rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Join our team! Our mission is BUILDING COMMUNITIES. IMPROVING LIVES. With a history spanning over 110 years, HR Green has consistently delivered on this mission, establishing ourselves as a trusted partner for our colleagues, clients, and communities alike. Each day, we work to find solutions that inspire our employees and fit our clients' needs to build trust to exceed their expectations. As a leading player in the industry, we're proud to be ranked No. 168 on Engineering News Record's Top 500 Design Firms list in 2025. Our unwavering dedication to cultivating an exceptional workplace environment has earned us the distinguished honor of being recognized as a Best Place to Work.

Summary

HR Green is seeking a talented Lead Structural Engineer to join our team as a regional technical expert within our Transportation practice in one of our Illinois offices (Aurora, McHenry, New Lenox, or Peoria). In this role, the Lead Structural Engineer will spearhead the delivery of technically robust projects crucial to our transportation network, focusing on bridges and other vital transportation structures like culverts, walls and sign structures. The primary objectives include meeting and exceeding both internal and external client expectations while ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget.

As the Lead Structural Engineer, you will play a pivotal role in making significant design decisions within your area of expertise, with minimal input from the Project Manager for assigned projects. You will have the opportunity to mentor staff, contribute to marketing and business development initiatives and take on the role of Project Manager for specific projects that align closely with your specialized discipline. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned engineer to make a substantial impact on our dynamic and innovative team.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

  • Use of computer software for the analysis and design of complex bridges and other structures.
  • Assessment and rehabilitation design of existing bridges.
  • Preparation of technical specifications, technical reports, design calculations, plans and provisions of construction phase services.
  • Input of development of engineering budget and schedule to meet project requirements.
  • Development of design procedures to facilitate high quality effective work by others.
  • Guidance and management of junior structural engineers and CAD staff.
  • Participation in interdisciplinary review of project deliverables.
  • Performing quality control review of design calculations or drawings.
  • Contribute or lead the development of project proposals and agreements.

Education and Experience

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering and 10 years of related experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
  • Professional Engineering License (PE).
  • Licensed Structural Engineer (SE).
  • Project experience must include designing bridges and other transportation structures in Illinois with progressive experience.
  • Project experience must include federally funded projects; experience with other state DOT projects is a plus.

Benefits

Not only does HR Green provide you with a place to grow, thrive, and enjoy your work, but we are also dedicated to delivering a comprehensive and multi-faceted benefits package. Visit our website for detailed total rewards information.

https://www.hrgreen.com/careers/total-rewards/

Compensation Range

$101,200.00 - $161,600

The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in accordance with the Illinois Salary Transparency amendment to the Equal Pay Act of 2003. The final agreed-upon compensation is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, skills, prior work experience, competencies, and geographic work location. The total annual compensation package may consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate, after a qualifying period, in our performance and discretionary incentive bonus program(s).

HR Green is proud to be an affirmative action/ equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or other classification protected by applicable federal, state or local law.


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