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Principal Structural Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Principal Systems Test Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger ... dynamic structural testing) * Lead and mentor development of instrument and data acquisition ...

ECS Ltd

Structural Staff Associate

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

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

Lynk

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Job Summary As a Mechanical Engineer at Lynk, you will be responsible for the analysis, design ... Developing materials and structural such as, vibration, and analyses of space hardware.

Amazon

Release Manager, Design Engineering

Herndon, VA · On-site

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

... structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all ...

Amazon

Release Manager, Design Engineering

Herndon, VA

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

... structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all ...

Amazon

Release Manager, Design Engineering

Herndon, VA

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

... structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all ...

Amazon

Sr Release Manager, Design Engineering

Herndon, VA

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

... structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all ...

Amazon

Sr Release Manager, Design Engineering

Herndon, VA

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

... structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all ...

Amazon

Sr Release Manager, Design Engineering

Herndon, VA

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

... structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all ...

Amazon

Sr Release Manager, Design Engineering

Herndon, VA · On-site

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

... structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all ...

Amazon

Sr Release Manager, Design Engineering

Herndon, VA · On-site

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

... structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all ...

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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 Jun 11, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,547 per year, or $47.4 per hour.
Principal Systems Test Engineer

Principal Systems Test Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Principal Systems Test Engineer

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 - a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage - and this role is no exception.

The Role

As our Principal Systems Test Engineer, you'll be the technical lead driving development of Electra's ground test infrastructure and instrumentation capability. This is a hands-on leadership role - you'll mentor junior engineers, own the architecture of our simulation labs, and build the data management and automated test processes that engineering depends on to move the EL9 toward certification.

What You'll Do

  • Lead and mentor development of software and hardware in the loop simulation labs. (ex. hybrid propulsion copper bird; SIL/HIL labs for flight controls, avionics, and aircraft as a whole; engineering flight simulators; static and dynamic structural testing)
  • Lead and mentor development of instrument and data acquisition capabilities for ground and flight test.
  • Lead and mentor data management of all testing for use by engineering.
  • Build automated test processes requiring custom interfaces amongst disparate RTOS system models and hardware.
  • Serve as a key contact for all ground testing and instrumentation with internal customer organizations.

What You'll Bring

  • Bachelor's in Aerospace or related engineering degree or equivalent experience. (aerospace/electrical/mechanical preferred)
  • 10+ years experience in systems ground tests and instrumentation. Preferably experience with test and evaluation at an aircraft manufacturer.
  • CAA (FAA/EASA) aircraft certification experience preferred
  • U.S. Person preferred

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance.
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays.
  • Paid winter break.
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting.
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters.
  • Free on-site parking.

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.