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Principal Structural Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PROENERGY

Structural Engineer

Leawood, KS

We seek a Structural Engineer reporting to our Principal Structural Engineer that has a passion for ownership and pride in the quality of our deliverables. The Structural Engineer will create ...

Parsons

Principal Structural Engineer

Sandy Springs, GA · On-site

$103.50K - $181.10K/yr

Parsons is looking for an amazingly talented Principal Structural Engineer to join our team! What You'll Be Doing: * May function as discipline Project Engineer on medium to large projects, assuming ...

Rimkus

Principal Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130.10K - $195.10K/yr

Technical Leadership & Structural Engineering * Lead the preparation and review of construction drawings, specifications, and structural calculations for new and existing structures. * Oversee ...

Rimkus

Principal Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130.10K - $195.10K/yr

Technical Leadership & Structural Engineering * Lead the preparation and review of construction drawings, specifications, and structural calculations for new and existing structures. * Oversee ...

Rimkus

Principal Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130.10K - $195.10K/yr

Structural Engineering Expertise (Technical Depth) Expert knowledge of commercial and residential structural systems, including gravity/lateral systems across common materials (steel, concrete ...

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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
Principal Structural Engineer

Principal Structural Engineer

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Lombard, IL • On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 hours ago

Job description

Responsibilities
  • Advanced knowledge within the Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Architectural discipline with the capabilities and the initiative to design structures independently
  • Design shallow and deep foundations
  • Design underground concrete vaults and tunnels
  • Design slab reinforcement for a variety of loading conditions
  • Design individual pipe supports and pipe rack type structures
  • Design steel structures such as access platforms including ladder and stair details, trusses, two-legged bents and four-legged support towers
  • Develop a variety of structural connections including unique connections caused by field interferences
  • Capable of interpreting and designing from a variety of different domestic and foreign structural building design codes
  • Strong understanding of multiple types of structural analysis software packages
  • Have an understanding of civil design systems
  • Confidence and creative initiative to solve difficult problems and develop discipline specific arrangements
  • Manage his or her own time, as well as those they are supervising, to stay within the project allotted budget
  • Perform as a Design Lead for small discipline projects which may include managing up to several engineers and designers per project
  • Interfacing with clients in business development roles during scope and proposal development phases of a new project or as required
  • Capable of developing structural design manhour estimates and work completion schedules
  • Review vendor concrete reinforcement and structural steel shop fabrication drawings
  • Develop and review project specifications
  • Develop structural construction scope of work documents
  • Mentor less senior engineers
  • Possess professional registration 
  • Verify field conditions, constructability of designs, and assist in resolving problems during field construction
  • May be required to participate in short- or long-term field assignments
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree or higher in Civil or Structural Engineering or Architecture
  • 15+ years of experience working as a Civil or Structural Engineer, or Architect in the Process Industrial or Power industries.
  • Must hold professional registrations (SE, PE)
  • Advanced knowledge of Civil/Structural Engineering or Architectural design
  • Strong Microsoft Office software skills
  • Knowledgeable of AutoCAD software
  • Knowledgeable with Risa-3D and STAADPro analysis software
  • Possess report writing skills to create structural evaluation reports of existing facilities
  • Intermediate understanding of other discipline workflow and how all departments work together to complete projects
  • Strong oral and written communication skills
  • Must possess exceptional interpersonal and organizational skills
  • Must be able to work in the US without sponsorship now or in the future
$125,000 - $200,000 a year
Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
Valdes Architecture & Engineering Company is looking for bright and talented people that want to take their career to the next level. We offer many rewarding career paths to challenge and engage our employees at all phases of their careers. Our office provides a team environment, and excellent working conditions, which allow individuals to maximize their potential. Valdes Architecture & Engineering offers an outstanding benefits package including Medical, Dental, 401K plan, Company paid Long Term and Short Term Disability Insurance, Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance, Pet Insurance, a discounted gym membership and tuition reimbursement.
EEO/AAE
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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