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Junior Structural Engineer Jobs in Orono, ME (NOW HIRING)

Junior Structural Engineer information

See Orono, ME salary details

$35.1K

$75.3K

$114.9K

How much do junior structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior structural engineer in Orono, ME is $75,333.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $83,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 cities near Orono, ME are hiring for Junior Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities near Orono, ME with the most Junior Structural Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Structural Engineer job openings in Orono, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,333 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Research Engineer III-IV - Structural Design

Orono, ME

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Research Engineer III/IV will support ongoing and new research projects through structural engineering analysis and design. This will include assigned and/or original research on a variety of topics encompassing the development and use of structural FRP composites in civil infrastructure; assessing the performance of structures made with a range of engineering materials using high-fidelity finite-element analyses, engineering calculations and data analysis; and assisting with the development and execution of laboratory and field-based experimental programs. The Research Engineer III/IV will work collaboratively with faculty, staff, and graduate and undergraduate students at the Advanced Structures and Composites Center.

Typical hiring salary for this soft-money funded position is commensurate with Career Level: 

Engineer III - up to $92,000 
Engineer IV - up to $110,000

This position requires access to information regulated under U.S. Export Control regulations and therefore individuals must qualify as a U.S. Person under U.S. Export Control Regulations.

Please review the Research Engineer III-IV, Structural Design & Composites job description for more information.

About the University:
The University of Maine is a community of more than 11,900 undergraduate and graduate students, and 2,500 employees located on the Orono campus, the regional campus in Machias, and throughout the state. UMaine is a land, sea and space grant university, and maintains a leadership role as the University of Maine System's flagship institution. UMaine is the state's public research university and a Carnegie R1 top-tier research institution, dedicated to providing excellent teaching, research and service for Maine, the nation and the world. More information about UMaine is at umaine.edu. 
The University of Maine offers a wide range of benefits for employees including, but not limited to, tuition benefits (employee and dependent), comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long term disability as well as retirement plan options. 
UMaine is located in beautiful Central Maine. Many employees report that a primary reason for choosing to come to UMaine is quality of life. Numerous cultural activities, excellent public schools, safe neighborhoods, high quality medical care, little traffic, and a reasonable cost of living make the greater Bangor area a wonderful place to live. Visit the Maine Office of Tourism to learn more about what the Bangor region has to offer.
Qualifications:
Required 

  • M.S. in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field with 4-8 years of professional and/or post-degree research experience.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of the mechanics of FRP composite materials, finite element analysis applied to structural systems, structural engineering design with conventional materials, and advanced mechanics of materials.
  • Experience in the analysis and design of structural FRP composite systems.
  • Demonstrated ability to break complex engineering problems into fundamental components and develop practical solutions.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet competing deadlines.
  • Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with industry partners, sponsors, and external stakeholders.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills, including technical report writing and presentations.
  • Experience contributing to research proposals, technical publications, and/or sponsored research activities.
  • Ability to mentor junior engineers, technicians, and students in a collaborative research environment.
  • Must qualify as a U.S. Person in accordance with U.S. Export Control regulations.

Preferred 

  • Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field.
  • Current Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain licensure within a reasonable timeframe.
  • Experience leading or managing technical teams, research groups, or multidisciplinary project teams.
  • Experience supervising, mentoring, or developing engineering staff and students.
  • Experience with large-scale structural testing and experimental research programs.
     

Other Information: 

To be considered for this position you will need to "Apply" and upload the documentation listed below:

1.) a cover letter which describes your experience, interests, and suitability for the position
2.) a resume/curriculum vitae

Candidates selected to proceed to the final stages of the search process will be requested to provide a list of names and contact information for references.

Incomplete application materials cannot be considered. Materials received after the initial review date will be reviewed at the discretion of the University.
For full consideration, materials must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. EST on July 17, 2026.

For questions about the search, please contact the ASCC Talent Engagement Manager, Kimberly Scribner at kimberly.scribner@maine.edu.
The successful applicant is subject to appropriate background screening and post offer physical. 


 

The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator at www.maine.edu/title-ix/.

 
Clery Act
The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish and distribute an Annual Security Report, (ASR) and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University's crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University's current campus security policies. You may view the University's Annual Security Report. If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or you need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact: UMaine Police Department, 81 Rangeley Rd., The University of Maine, Orono, ME 04469-5794, or call 207.581.4053.