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Principal Structural Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

RINA Piraeus Team

Senior Structural Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

... Principal Engineer or Engineering Manager. Key Accountabilities * Plan and execute advanced ... Coordinate structural engineering tasks within multidisciplinary project teams under the direction ...

Parsons

Engineer I - Civil/Structural

Houston, TX

$62K - $109K/yr

Parsons is now hiring structural engineers for our expanding design group located in Richardson and ... You will have regular supervision by principal engineers to further develop your technical ...

GFT.

Principal Transmission Line Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

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

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPrincipal Structural Engineer JobsPrincipal Structural Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

Principal Structural Engineer information

See Houston, TX salary details

$47.7K

$94.9K

$145.2K

How much do principal structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal structural engineer in Houston, TX is $94,924.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $107,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

For Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

Principal Structural Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Structural Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,924 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Principal Civil/Structural Engineer - Lead

Zachry Group

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Zachry Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

62nd of 80 rated construction

Job description


Zachry Engineering Corporation is looking for a Principal Civil Structural Engineer - Lead in our Houston Westchase office. We are looking for a Subject Matter Expert (SME) who can lead a team of civil and structural engineers. The ideal candidate will be a proven leader, responsible for leading both high-performing teams and complex industrial, power, and steel & concrete projects.
Responsibilities
  • Lead and provide technical guidance throughout the structural design and engineering process, often serving as the senior reviewer of calculations and structural models.
  • Coordinate, review and approve building design plans, ensure work is compliant with all applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations.
  • Prepare data and visualizations such as tables, charts, reports, sketches, calculations, cross-sections, and 2D/3D illustrations for the interpretation or presentation of more complex data, findings, or analyses.
  • Prepare comprehensive structural technical reports and presentations that explain research, concepts, and recommendations.
  • Analyze, evaluate, and interpret data obtained during site investigations, offering input with developing action plans for moderate- to high-level risk mitigation activities.
  • Responsible for the design and safety of temporary structures used during construction.
  • Consider construction costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards, and other factors in planning stages and risk analysis.
  • Write technical specifications and scopes of work for steel, concrete, and geotechnical materials.
  • Independently evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria using judgment in making minor adaptations and modifications.
  • Travel to job sites and participate in walkdowns and provide construction or commissioning support.
  • Coordinate with other disciplines, departments, and companies to ensure seamless technical compatibility and completion of engineering tasks safely, on-time, within budget and meeting all quality requirements.
  • Lead, mentor, and provide technical guidance to engineering teams; actively foster professional development by preparing and conducting training for junior engineering personnel.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from an accredited university.
  • Minimum of 15+ years of Structural Engineering experience in the Power and Industrial industry.
  • Professional registration as a Professional Engineer (P.E.). (required)
  • Professional registration as a Structural Engineer (S.E.) (preferred)
  • Knowledge of AutoCAD, STAADPro, RISA, Enercalc or similar analysis software.
  • Familiarity with 3D design and viewing software such as Navisworks.
  • Experience with large industrial projects, and understanding of project environments, requirements, and risks.
  • Experience with managing a team of of five or more civil/structural engineers.
  • Knowledge and understanding of engineering, construction, and project management.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Strong Microsoft Office software skills.
  • Must possess current permanent authorization to work in the United States for any employer without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

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About Zachry Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Zachry Group is America's pacesetter in turnkey construction, engineering, maintenance, turnaround and fabrication services in the power, energy, chemicals, manufacturing and industrial sectors. It works with customers to plan, build, and renew their most critical facilities, so they can achieve their immediate and long-term goals, all at the highest safety standards. Zachry Group operates 35 offices, and averages 20,000 employees working in more than 400 locations nationwide. Please visit www.zachrygroup.com for more information.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1924

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