ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Principal Structural Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Bechtel

Principal Structural Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

You will lead and mentor structural engineering teams with design, modification, evaluation, and constructability reviews of civil/structural components and processes. Your technical expertise will ...

M.C. Dean, Inc

Structural Engineer Principal 4

Tysons, VA · On-site

$125K - $156K/yr

The Structural Engineer will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of structures to ensure they are safe, sustainable, and cost-effective. This includes buildings ...

IMEG

Senior Structural Engineer | Fairfax, VA

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Principal Responsibilities * Coordinate, oversee, and manage structural projects ranging in size ... Professional Engineer (PE) License required * 10 years of experience minimum required, 12 preferred ...

High Industries

Principal Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Principal Engineer provides strategic and technical leadership for all engineering services ... S. Civil/Structural Engineering with a structural concentration, Masters preferred * Minimum 10+ ...

Leidos

Principal Civil Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Principal Civil Engineer (TS/SCI Required) Location: Reston, VA Leidos is seeking an accomplished ... Subterranean & Hardened Facility Analysis Evaluate the structural design, geological overburden ...

Leidos

Principal Civil Engineer

Reston, VA

Principal Civil Engineer (TS/SCI Required) Location: Reston, VA Leidos is seeking an accomplished ... Subterranean & Hardened Facility Analysis Evaluate the structural design, geological overburden ...

ECS Ltd

Structural Staff Associate

Chantilly, VA

... Principal reviewers. * Property Condition Assessment training recommended. Clearly document site ... Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Architectural ...

GFT.

Principal Transmission Line Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

GFT is seeking a Principal Transmission Line Engineer to join our Power Business Group! This role ... Design transmission line segments using PLS-CADD or other structural design software. * Develop ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Structural Engineer JobsPrincipal Structural Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Principal Structural Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$49.6K

$98.5K

$150.7K

How much do principal structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal structural engineer in Virginia is $98,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Principal Structural Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines on large projects?

A Principal Structural Engineer often works closely with architects, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers to ensure that structural designs integrate seamlessly with other systems. This collaboration involves attending coordination meetings, reviewing interdisciplinary plans, and resolving design conflicts to maintain project timelines and budgets. Effective communication and leadership are key, as the Principal Structural Engineer is responsible for guiding their team and ensuring that structural solutions meet all safety, regulatory, and client requirements while aligning with the overall project vision.

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

To thrive as a Principal Structural Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of structural analysis, design principles, and building codes, typically supported by a civil or structural engineering degree and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with structural design software such as SAP2000, ETABS, or AutoCAD, and experience with project management tools are commonly required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure safe, innovative, and cost-effective structural solutions while leading teams and managing complex projects.

What is a Principal Structural Engineer?

A Principal Structural Engineer is a senior-level professional responsible for leading and overseeing the structural design and integrity of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. They manage engineering teams, review and approve design calculations, and ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations. In addition to technical expertise, they often interact with clients, coordinate with other engineering disciplines, and provide mentorship to junior engineers. Their role is critical in delivering safe, efficient, and innovative structural solutions on large and complex projects.

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

AspectPrincipal Structural EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a PE license, advanced degrees, and extensive experienceRequires a PE license and relevant degree, less experience needed
Work EnvironmentLeads projects, oversees teams, and makes high-level decisionsDesigns structures, prepares calculations, and collaborates with teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in consulting firms, engineering firms, and construction companiesCommonly employed in similar settings, often as entry to mid-level roles

The Principal Structural Engineer typically holds more experience, leadership responsibilities, and oversees complex projects, while the Structural Engineer focuses on detailed design work and calculations. Both roles require a PE license and work within the same industry, but the Principal role involves higher-level management and strategic decision-making.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Principal Structural Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Structural Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,547 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Principal Structural Engineer

Legacy Engineering

Fredericksburg, VA • On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Legacy Engineering is a woman-owned civil engineering firm specializing in land development design, geotechnical services, construction materials testing and inspections, land surveying, planning consulting, and environmental services. Headquartered in Fredericksburg, Virginia, we serve clients throughout the Commonwealth and beyond.
The Structural Engineer provides structural engineering services in support of land development, geotechnical, and construction projects. This role focuses primarily on retaining walls, foundations, miscellaneous structural design, and construction engineering support.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design retaining walls.
  • Design shallow and deep foundations.
  • Prepare structural calculations and technical reports.
  • Review structural shop drawings.
  • Perform structural evaluations of existing facilities.
  • Assist project managers during design and construction.
  • Coordinate with civil, geotechnical, and survey staff.
  • Participate in client meetings.
  • Review plans for quality and constructability.

Skills, Knowledge, Expertise
  • B.S. in Civil Engineering with structural emphasis.
  • Professional Engineer license preferred.
  • 5+ years of structural engineering experience.
  • Experience with retaining wall and foundation design.
  • Working knowledge of current building codes.
  • Strong analytical and communication skills.

Benefits
  • 8 Paid Holidays
  • 15 days of PTO
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage including a low cost employee medical option
  • HSA and FSA plans available
  • Employer paid Short Term, Long Term, Life and AD&D Insurance plans
  • 401k plan with up to 5% match
  • Continuing education and certifications provided
  • And many more great benefits including numerous sponsored company events

Compensation for this position is $110,000to $155,000/Annually, commensurate with experience, education and certifications. The provided range is a good faith estimate based on the requirements described within the job description. We notice that we receive a wide variety of applicants and recognize that the person selected may be less experienced or more experienced. If so, the actual salary range may vary from the estimate provided.
Legacy Engineering is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a workplace that values diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable law. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply and join our team.
Legacy Engineering is an E-Verify employer and uses E-Verify to check work authorizations of every employee during our hiring process.
Legacy Engineering es un empleador que participa en E-Verify y utiliza E-Verify para verificar la autorización de trabajo de cada empleado durante nuestro proceso de contratación.
*No recruiters or staffing agencies, should contact Legacy Engineering about this role.

Apply