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Principal Structural Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

Structural Team Lead

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Delphinus Engineering, Inc. is looking for a Structural Ship Repair Team Lead to function for a ... Must be able to work on Navy Ships Principal Duties/Responsibilities: * Must have experience in ...

Principal Nuclear Engineer SME

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

... Principal Nuclear Engineer Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support critical national security ... Employ advanced multi-physics modeling and simulation tools to assess structural, thermal ...

Principal Nuclear Engineer SME

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

... Principal Nuclear Engineer Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support critical national security ... Employ advanced multi-physics modeling and simulation tools to assess structural, thermal ...

Structural Team Lead

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Delphinus Engineering, Inc. is looking for a Structural Ship Repair Team Lead to function for a ... Must be able to work on Navy Ships Principal Duties/Responsibilities: * Must have experience in ...

Showing results 41-60

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 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:
Infographic showing various Principal Structural Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,547 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Release Manager, Design Engineering

Amazon

Herndon, VA • On-site

$41.50 - $47.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Amazon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 7,079 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 39 rated national retailers


Job description

AWS Infrastructure Services owns the design, planning, delivery, and operation of all AWS global infrastructure. In other words, we're the people who keep the cloud running. We support all AWS data centers and all of the servers, storage, networking, power, and cooling equipment that ensure our customers have continual access to the innovation they rely on.

We work on the most challenging problems, with thousands of variables impacting the supply chain - and we're looking for talented people who want to help.
We are seeking a highly technical Design Change Manager to join our GDSCM team, focusing on the Basis of Design (BOD) and Programmatic Design Change Management (PDCM) programs. This role requires deep technical expertise across multiple engineering disciplines and the ability to evaluate complex design changes across 300+ in-flight projects.
As a Design Change Manager, you will serve as a technical expert evaluating design change requests across electrical, mechanical, civil, structural, architectural, controls, plumbing, fire protection, and thermal systems. You will conduct feasibility analyses, coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across all disciplines, and manage the end-to-end lifecycle of design changes from initiation through implementation.
You will work closely with Design Engineering, Construction Management, Procurement, Finance, and Product teams to ensure design changes are properly vetted, funded, and executed.
Key job responsibilities
Technical Design Evaluation
Evaluate complex design changes across multiple engineering disciplines including electrical power distribution, mechanical cooling systems, structural loads, civil site work, architectural layouts, controls systems, plumbing infrastructure, and fire protection systems
Analyze technical specifications, construction drawings, equipment datasheets, and system integration requirements to assess design change feasibility and impact
Understand and explain the complexity of data center designs including power distribution from utility to rack level, cooling system architectures, backup power systems, and building infrastructure
Identify technical dependencies and cross-discipline impacts when evaluating proposed design changes
Assess constructability, maintainability, and operational implications of design modifications
Review and validate technical calculations including electrical load calculations, cooling capacity requirements, structural load analysis, and hydraulic calculations
Design Change Management
Manage portfolio of design changes across multiple in-flight projects, ensuring alignment with business priorities and technical requirements
Conduct feasibility analyses and production readiness assessments for proposed design changes, evaluating technical risk, schedule impact, and cost implications
Coordinate technical reviews with principal engineers across mechanical, electrical, structural, civil, architectural, controls, plumbing, and fire protection disciplines
Develop and maintain implementation plans, tracking design change execution from approval through site deployment
Present design change recommendations and cost implications to senior leadership, clearly articulating technical complexity and business impact
Evaluate design improvements and innovations, assessing their applicability across the global portfolio
Cross-Discipline Collaboration
Partner with Electrical Engineers on power distribution design, generator sizing, UPS configurations, switchgear specifications, and high-voltage systems
Collaborate with Mechanical Engineers on cooling system design, HVAC configurations, piping layouts, and thermal management strategies
Work with Structural Engineers on foundation design, seismic requirements, equipment support structures, and building loads
Engage with Civil Engineers on site grading, stormwater management, utility routing, and site infrastructure
Coordinate with Architectural teams on building layouts, space planning, and building envelope design
Interface with Controls Engineers on building management systems, monitoring systems, and automation strategies
Partner with Fire Protection Engineers on fire suppression systems, detection systems, and life safety requirements
Stakeholder Coordination
Partner with Design Management teams to understand project-specific requirements, constraints, and technical challenges
Collaborate with Finance teams on cost validation, funding strategies, and budget tracking for design changes
Work with Construction Management and Procurement teams to assess schedule impacts, supply chain constraints, and constructability
Engage with Product and Solutions teams to evaluate new equipment, emerging technologies, and design approaches
Coordinate with Commissioning teams to ensure design changes support testing and startup requirements
Process Improvement
Identify opportunities to streamline design change workflows and reduce execution timelines while maintaining technical rigor
Develop and maintain technical documentation including standard operating procedures, design standards, technical specifications, and RACI matrices
Contribute to automation initiatives and tooling improvements for design change management
Support integration of cost validation frameworks and bulk funding mechanisms
Drive continuous improvement in technical review processes and design quality standards
Program Execution
Track and report on design change metrics including approval timelines, cost avoidance, implementation status, and technical quality
Maintain design change databases and dashboards for cross-functional visibility
Support BOD release planning and coordination to minimize redesign impacts
Participate in weekly leadership reviews presenting program status, key decisions, and technical recommendations
About the team
The Global Design Standards and Change Management (GDSCM) organization within Data Center Engineering is responsible for establishing and maintaining design standards across the global data center portfolio

Our team manages three mission-critical programs:
Basis of Design (BOD)Establishes and governs the foundational technical standards for all global data center designs, ensuring consistency and quality across the portfolio.
Programmatic Design Change Management (PDCM)Manages design change requests across 300+ in-flight projects.
360 Equipment Qualification Program (360 EQP)Qualifies equipment and technologies for deployment across the global portfolio, evaluating emerging solutions and driving standardization of critical systems.
Together, these programs deliver capacity across the AMER, APAC, and EMEA regions.
Why AWS
o Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the world's most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud platform. We pioneered cloud computing and never stopped innovating - that's why customers from the most successful startups to Global 500 companies trust our robust suite of products and services to power their businesses.
Diverse Experiences
o Amazon values diverse experiences

Even if you do not meet all of the preferred qualifications and skills listed in the job description, we encourage candidates to apply. If your career is just starting, hasn't followed a traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, don't let it stop you from applying.
Work/Life Balance
o We value work-life harmony. Achieving success at work should never come at the expense of sacrifices at home, which is why we strive for flexibility as part of our working culture

When we feel supported in the workplace and at home, there's nothing we can't achieve in the cloud.
Inclusive Team Culture
o Here at AWS, it's in our nature to learn and be curious. Our employee-led affinity groups foster a culture of inclusion that empower us to be proud of our differences. Ongoing events and learning experiences, including our Conversations on Race and Ethnicity (CORE) and AmazeCon conferences, inspire us to never stop embracing our uniqueness.
Mentorship and Career Growth
o We're continuously raising our performance bar as we strive to become Earth's Best Employer

That's why you'll find endless knowledge-sharing, mentorship and other career-advancing resources here to help you develop into a better-rounded professional.


What Amazon employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Amazon

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Amazon.com, Inc., commonly known as Amazon, is an American multinational technology company. It was founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 and initially started as an online marketplace for books. Since then, Amazon has expanded its operations and become one of the largest e-commerce companies in the world. Amazon's primary business is its online retail platform, where customers can purchase a vast array of products, including electronics, clothing, books, home goods, and much more. The company offers a convenient and user-friendly shopping experience, with features such as fast shipping, customer reviews, and personalized recommendations. In addition to its e-commerce platform, Amazon has diversified its business into various other areas. One of its notable ventures is Amazon Web Services (AWS), a comprehensive cloud computing platform that provides services such as storage, compute power, and database management to individuals and businesses. AWS has become a leader in the cloud computing industry, powering many websites and applications worldwide. Amazon has also developed its own consumer electronics, including the popular Amazon Kindle e-reader, Fire tablets, Fire TV streaming devices, and the Alexa-powered Echo smart speakers. The Alexa voice assistant, integrated into these devices, allows users to interact with their devices using voice commands, perform tasks, and access information. Furthermore, Amazon has expanded into media and entertainment. It operates Prime Video, a streaming service that offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and original content. Amazon Music provides a platform for streaming and purchasing digital music, while Audible offers audiobooks and other audio content. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction and convenience is demonstrated by its membership program, Amazon Prime. Prime members receive various benefits, including free two-day shipping, access to streaming services, exclusive deals, and more.

Industry

It services, book publishers, retail, real estate and computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US