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Principal Structural Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... structural team. Responsibilities: Working alongside senior engineers and designers you will independently perform tasks that typically include: * Responsible to have a full understanding of the ...

Perform civil/structural design work from conceptual design to detailed design of onshore ... Ability to communicate effectively with other designers and engineers to achieve an optimal drawing ...

... structural team. Responsibilities: Working alongside senior engineers and designers you will independently perform tasks that typically include: * Responsible to have a full understanding of the ...

Principal Structural Engineer Company Overview At Mitsubishi Power, we're not just building better ... Enhance structural design standards for equipment skid base designs and pipe support systems

Parsons has a career opportunity for an amazingly talented Principal Structural Engineer to join ... Proven ability to perform and oversee QA/QC procedures on complex structural designs * Strong ...

Principal Structural Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$103K - $181K/yr

Parsons has a career opportunity for an amazingly talented Principal Structural Engineer to join ... Proven ability to perform and oversee QA/QC procedures on complex structural designs * Strong ...

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Principal Structural Designer information

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How much do principal structural designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for principal structural designer in the United States is $41.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $51.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Principal Structural Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Structural Designer, you need deep expertise in structural engineering principles, extensive experience with design codes, and typically a degree in civil or structural engineering. Proficiency in industry-standard software like AutoCAD, Revit, and STAAD.Pro, as well as relevant certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) licensure, is highly valued. Strong leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure structural integrity, accurate project delivery, and seamless collaboration with multidisciplinary teams in complex design projects.

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

AspectPrincipal Structural DesignerStructural Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Structural Engineering or related field; often with professional licensureBachelor's or Master's in Civil or Structural Engineering; typically licensed Professional Engineer (PE)
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, consulting agencies, architectural firms, project management teamsEngineering consulting firms, construction companies, government agencies
ResponsibilitiesLeading design concepts, overseeing project design, coordinating with clients and teamsAnalyzing structural integrity, preparing calculations, ensuring code compliance, detailed design work

While both roles require engineering credentials and involve structural design, the Principal Structural Designer focuses on leading design projects and overseeing teams, whereas the Structural Engineer primarily conducts detailed analysis and calculations to ensure safety and compliance. The Principal often has more managerial responsibilities, but both roles are essential in the structural design process.

How does a Principal Structural Designer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on large projects?

A Principal Structural Designer often serves as the primary liaison between structural design teams and other disciplines such as architectural, mechanical, and civil engineering. They participate in regular coordination meetings to ensure structural plans align with overall project requirements and resolve interface issues. Effective communication and leadership are essential, as they often guide junior designers, review deliverables, and provide technical solutions that integrate seamlessly within the larger project framework. This collaborative environment fosters both creative problem-solving and professional growth.

What is a Principal Structural Designer?

A Principal Structural Designer is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the design and analysis of structural systems for buildings, bridges, or other infrastructure projects. They lead design teams, ensure compliance with engineering standards and codes, and coordinate with architects, engineers, and clients. Their role often includes reviewing and approving drawings, mentoring junior designers, and solving complex structural challenges. With significant experience, they play a key role in project delivery from concept through construction.
More about Principal Structural Designer jobs
Principal Structural Designer

Principal Structural Designer

Worley

Reading, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Worley rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 368 rated engineering


Job description

About us
Worley is a global company of energy, chemicals and resources experts headquartered in Australia. We partner with our customers to deliver projects and create value across the life of their assets. We specialize in consulting, engineering, procurement and construction across the project lifecycle, with services extending through to operations and decommissioning. Leveraging extensive experience and AI-enabled delivery, we support customers in navigating complexity as they meet today's needs and transition to more sustainable solutions.
Purpose:
You will provide structural design and drafting services to Worley, and its customers and may provide technical support and supervision within the structural team.
Responsibilities:
Working alongside senior engineers and designers you will independently perform tasks that typically include:
  • Responsible to have a full understanding of the project's scope, overall schedule, deliverables, milestones, manhour budgets, industry standards, applicable codes, and procedures.
  • Prepare structural steel and reinforced concrete drawings with minimal amount of supervision and engineering input.
  • Developing a complete design drawing package for checking or checking the design drawing package.
  • Plan, organize and carry out assignments as required.
  • Able to execute work independently.
  • Perform independent audits and reviews of technical work.
  • Perform proposal preparation, proposal estimates, and provide input to scope documents and client presentations.
  • Perform the function of a team leader that is capable of solving complex issues and act as a lead designer responsible for the quality of the deliverables.
  • Ability to travel to job sites to perform site walkdown.
  • Interface with other disciplines in the development of the drawing package.
  • Assist in the preparation of bills of materials.
  • Work closely with structural engineers and other disciplines to ensure coordinated design systems.
  • Be knowledgeable of client procedures, project procedures, and specifications.
  • Identify and request information in the form of a 'Needs List' to maintain schedule.
  • Utilize a 3D model (AVEVA E3D/Navisworks) review software to monitor design quality and progress.
  • Review and approve deliverables prior to issue.
  • Ensure deliverable verification procedures are followed.
  • Read and interpret supplier drawings, construction specifications and schematics.
  • Identify issues and problems, develop appropriate solutions, and ask for assistance when required.

What you will brin g
Technical/Industry Experience and Qualifications Requirements:
  • Extensive experience in structural design for powers generation and industrial facilities is required, chemical facilities is a plus.
  • Experience working in project leadership role.
  • Experience with the application and use of AVEVA E3D, MicroStation V8i & AutoCAD.
  • Competent use of relevant software such as MS Office Suite.
  • Effective technical and practical design skills and ability to consistently deliver quality, accurate and timely work to Worley and its Customers.
  • Familiarity with structural design codes including IBC, ACI, and AISC.
  • Team participation skills.
  • Self-motivated, organized, able to work independently.
  • Strong interpersonal and written communication skills.

Education - Qualifications, Accreditation, Training:
Required:
  • 2 or 3 year technical diploma with structural design and drafting specific training.

Preferred:
  • An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience

Moving forward together
We want our people to be energized and empowered to drive sustainable impact. So, our focus is on a values-inspired culture that unlocks brilliance through belonging, connection and innovation. We're building a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace. Creating a space where everyone feels they belong, can be themselves, and are heard.
And we're not just talking about it; we're doing it. We're reskilling our people, leveraging transferable skills, and supporting the transition of our workforce to become experts in today's low carbon energy infrastructure and technology. Whatever your ambition, there's a path for you here.
And there's no barrier to your potential career success. Join us to broaden your horizons, explore diverse opportunities, and be part of delivering sustainable change.

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