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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
What job categories do people searching Principal Structural Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Structural Designer jobs are:
Principal Structural Designer jobs near you
Principal/Sr. Principal Structural Engineer

Principal/Sr. Principal Structural Engineer

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Annapolis, MD

$135K - $203K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 352 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

107th of 527 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: NoCLEARANCE TYPE: SCITRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Join Northrop Grumman on our continued mission to push the boundaries of possible across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace. Enjoy a culture where your voice is valued and start contributing to our team of passionate professionals providing real-life solutions to our world's biggest challenges. We take pride in creating purposeful work and allowing our employees to grow and achieve their goals every day by Defining Possible. With our competitive pay and comprehensive benefits, we have the right opportunities to fit your life and launch your career today.

The Naval & Oceanic Systems business unit headquartered in Annapolis, MD is seeking dependable individuals willing to work in a collaborative environment and that are interested in expanding their horizons.The Mechanical Engineering Department is seeking an Principal or Senior Principal Structural Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals.

Essential Functions:

Perform linear and non-linear structural analyses of individual components and complex underwater assemblies using a combination of hand-calculations, Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and bolted joint calculations. Ability to lead a small team of structural analysts to support program's analysis needs. Ensure that designs meet program requirements and are consistent with program schedule and budget objectives.

The candidate must be able to collaborate in a team environment, prioritize and adjust tasks to accomplish the project result, prioritize multiple responsibilities and/or accomplishing them simultaneously, and comprehend and analyze complex problems and develop solutions. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are required.

Basic Qualifications for a Principal Structural Engineer:

  • BS degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace. or equivalent STEM) and a minimum of 5 years of experience in structural and/or thermal analysis or MS degree with 3 yearsof experience

  • Proficiency in using Finite Element Analysis tools (FEMAP/Nastran or ANSYS), bolted joint analysis, and structural hand calculations.

  • Proficiency in using common engineering design, production, analysis, and office tools.

  • US citizen with ability to obtain a TS/SCI and pass a polygraph.

Basic Qualifications for a Sr. Principal Engineer Structural:

  • BS degree in Engineering (Aerospace, Mechanical or equivalent STEM) and a minimum of 8 years of experience in structural analysis and/or thermal analysis or MS degree with 6 yearsof experience

  • Proficiency in using Finite Element Analysis tools (FEMAP/Nastran or ANSYS), bolted joint analysis, and structural hand calculations.

  • Proficiency in using common engineering design, production, analysis, and office tools.

  • US citizen with ability to obtain a TS/SCI and pass a polygraph.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Able to work in a fast-paced environment where multiple projects are being developed and deployed simultaneously

  • Demonstrated skills/experience in the following multi-disciplined areas: shock, vibration, bolted joint calculations, and fracture analysis

  • Demonstrated skills/experience with CFD analysis, familiarity with materials design for the undersea environment, manufacturing techniques, and integration and test.

  • Active Secret clearance.

NGFeaturedJobs

Primary Level Salary Range: $108,800.00 - $163,200.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $135,800.00 - $203,600.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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