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Junior Structural Engineer Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Sr. Structural Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site +1

$110K - $150K/yr

Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a culture of technical excellence REQUIREMENTS * Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering * 15+ years or more experience in the design of bridge ...

Senior Structural Engineer - Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$103K - $140K/yr

Provide mentoring and guidance to other design team members, junior engineers, and technicians ... Prepare structural scopes of work. * Prepare work plans and schedules. * Support business ...

Structural Project Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$10K - $134K/yr

Support junior team members through effective delegation and feedback, helping build a strong and ... Professional Engineer (PE) and/or Structural Engineer (SE) licensure preferred. * 4+ years of ...

Showing results 41-60

Junior Structural Engineer information

See Park Ridge, IL salary details

$33K

$70.7K

$107.7K

How much do junior structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for junior structural engineer in Park Ridge, IL is $70,651.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,700.00 and $78,700.00 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 job categories do people searching Junior Structural Engineer jobs in Park Ridge, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Structural Engineer jobs in Park Ridge, IL are:

What cities near Park Ridge, IL are hiring for Junior Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities near Park Ridge, IL with the most Junior Structural Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Structural Engineer job openings in Park Ridge, IL 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 $70,651 per year, or $34 per hour.

Principal Structural Engineer - Dynamic Design Analysis

Zachry Group

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$158K - $196K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 22 days ago


Zachry Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

62nd of 80 rated construction


Job description


Zachry Engineering Corporation is looking for a Principal Structural Engineer - Dynamic Design Analysis. We are looking for a Subject Matter Expert (SME) who lives at the intersection of high-level structural integrity and complex vibration theory to lead the design of massive machine foundations for combustion turbines and heavy industrial assets. This position is open to candidates who can physically work from an office in Downers Grove, IL, Houston, Texas, Omaha, NE, Charlotte, NC, or Greenville, SC.
Responsibilities
  • Act as the Subject Matter Expert (SME) for dynamic machine-foundation-soil interaction (SSI) for combustion turbines and high-speed rotating equipment.
  • Execute and oversee complex FEA to simulate thermal loads, seismic events, and harmonic vibrations, ensuring resonance separation and structural longevity.
  • Drive the evolution of design standards for massive reinforced concrete structures, balancing material efficiency with extreme performance requirements.
  • Lead multidisciplinary teams through the full project lifecycle-from initial geotechnical interpretation to final site construction and vibration troubleshooting.
  • Conduct rigorous peer reviews and forensic engineering assessments for existing facilities to address settlement or vibration-related issues.
  • Lead and provide technical guidance throughout the structural design and engineering process, often serving as the senior reviewer of calculations and structural models.
  • Provide specific to discipline technical expertise to the degree of preparing and providing training for junior engineering personnel.
  • Prepare data and visualizations such as tables, charts, reports, sketches, calculations, cross-sections, and 2D/3D illustrations for the interpretation or presentation of more complex data, findings, or analyses.
  • Consider construction costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards, and other factors in planning stages and risk analysis.
  • Independently evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria using judgment in making minor adaptations and modifications.
  • Travel to job sites and participate in walkdowns and provide construction or commissioning support.
  • Coordinate with other disciplines, departments, and companies to ensure seamless technical compatibility and completion of engineering tasks safely, on-time, within budget and meeting all quality requirements.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering with focus in Dynamic Analysis.
  • 15+ years of Structural Engineering experience in the Power and Industrial industry.
  • Professional registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.). (required)
  • Professional registration as a Structural Engineer (S.E.) (preferred)
  • Knowledge of AutoCAD, STAADPro, RISA, Enercalc or similar analysis software
  • Familiarity with 3D design and viewing software such as Navisworks.
  • Experience with large power generation and industrial projects.
  • Knowledge and understanding of engineering, construction, and project management.
  • Deep understanding of ACI 351.3R (Foundations for Dynamic Equipment) and rotating machinery dynamics.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Strong Microsoft Office software skills
  • Must possess authorization to work in the United States for any employer without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

LI-CT1
In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the expected salary range for this Principal Structural Engineer - Dynamic Design Analysis position is between $158,000 and $196,700 annually. Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors as permitted by law.
This Principal Structural - Dynamic Design Analysis position is eligible for participation in Zachry's Total Employee Rewards Program, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and other ancillary benefits. This position is also eligible for participation in the 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.

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About Zachry Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Zachry Group is America's pacesetter in turnkey construction, engineering, maintenance, turnaround and fabrication services in the power, energy, chemicals, manufacturing and industrial sectors. It works with customers to plan, build, and renew their most critical facilities, so they can achieve their immediate and long-term goals, all at the highest safety standards. Zachry Group operates 35 offices, and averages 20,000 employees working in more than 400 locations nationwide. Please visit www.zachrygroup.com for more information.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1924