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Principal Structural Engineer

The Structural Engineer will oversee structural design teams in delivering high-quality designs for a wide range of new construction, renovation, and redevelopment projects. This role will be focused ...

Cundall

Principal Structural Engineer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Responsibilities This is an excellent opportunity for a highly experienced and client-focused Structural Engineer to join our structures group. The right candidate will be a key member of our local ...

Worley

Principal Structural Engineer

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

You will provide structural engineering services to Worley and its customers, including technical support and supervision within the structural engineering team. Responsibilities : * Deliver ...

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$50K

$99.4K

$152K

How much do principal structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal structural engineer in the United States is $99,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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Principal Structural Engineer jobs near you
LUT- Principal Structural Engineer

LUT- Principal Structural Engineer

Lutech Resources

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

We are currently exploring potential candidates for an upcoming role at McDermott. While this position is not yet open for active recruitment, we want to connect with talented individuals who may be interested in future projects with us. If you are passionate about building energy's future and want to be considered when this role becomes available, we encourage you to submit your details.  

Job Overview:

The Principal Structural Engineer is responsible for interpreting internal or external business issues and recommending best practices. They will be tasked with solving complex structural-related problems and will work independently with minimal guidance. The Principal Structural Engineer may be responsible for leading functional teams or projects and is regarded as a specialist in the field of structural engineering. As such, they must have in-depth expertise in structural engineering as well as broad knowledge of the structural discipline within the engineering function. 

Lutech Resources has over 25 years' experience providing tailor made recruitment and integrated resource management to leading Engineering, Energy and Manufacturing sector companies worldwide. We set ourselves apart from others in the industry by building long term relationships with both our clients and candidates based on a mutual understanding of their targeted industry and a passion for excellence. With every engagement, our goal is to quickly place qualified talent with the best suited employer. We have a genuine understanding of candidates and clients' needs. Along with a dynamic and effective service, we strive for positive outcomes for everyone, every time.

Essential Qualifications and Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree or Master's Degree in engineering
  • 15-20 years of experience in oil and gas with a major contractor or consultants predominantly performing detail design
  • Preferably Registered Professional Engineer or member of professional engineering society as applicable  
  • Seasoned structural knowledge
  • Very good organizer, motivator, and supervisor
  • Able to solve problems without assistance
  • Keen on improving the effectiveness of the work
  • HSE, TQM and cost-conscious
  • Fluent in English, both oral and written
  • Understanding and supporting company goals and work processes
  • Show flexibility and ensure proper hand-over with regards to:
  • The reassignment to other departments/construction sites/fabrication yards
  • The reassignment to other client offices
  • The replacement of colleagues during illness and holidays
  • The provision of assistance to other colleagues with heavy workloads (also other projects) when possible/desirable
  • The managing/learning of future current working methods and software applications
  • Detailed knowledge of design techniques and analysis methods, and detailed knowledge of the theory, content, and application of standards, codes, and guidelines as applicable
  • Knowledgeable in project coordination and execution skills

#LI-CA1

Key Tasks and Responsibilities:

  • Perform conceptual, FEED, and detailed analyses and design as per design basis, project specifications, design codes, and standards
  • Apply in-depth skills and broad knowledge of the business to address complex problems and nonstandard situations
  • Prepare clear and accurate detailed design calculations and analyses including design reports and procedures
  • Manage own time to meet objectives and (as Lead Engineer) forecast and plan resource requirements
  • Clearly communicate and explain difficult concepts and persuade others to adopt a point of view
  • Train/mentor other employees in the department
  • Assist and monitor MOPEX offices on projects
  • Have a good understanding of the other engineering departments
  • Initiate interface with other disciplines to obtain input for discipline designs
  • Have a good understanding of construction/fabrication yard and client requirements
  • Have commercial insight
  • Help to maintain unifi
  • Prepare bid from sketching data, using experience
  • Supervise engineers and designers
  • Define scopes of work for engineering/construction fabrication yard
  • Provide engineering support as required
  • Perform engineering checks of drafting
  • Perform engineering checks prepared by others within the discipline
  • Perform design verification through single discipline check and assist with inter-discipline checks (IDC)
  • Prepare MTOs of structures
  • Prepare specifications
  • Prepare subcontract
  • Review vendor data
  • Prepare technical bid evaluations
  • Assist in furthering the department

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