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Remote Principal Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Lochner

Senior Structural Engineer - Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$103K - $140K/yr

A Senior Structural Engineer (SE & PE) with 10+ years of bridge design and analysis experience ... Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid and remote opportunities where business needs allow

Pierce Engineers, Inc.

Structural Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$52K - $100K/yr

They should assist the Structural Engineer or Designer they are working with in exposing relational ... All of our offices work on a hybrid schedule, with 4 days in office and 1 day remote. The salary ...

Leidos

Senior Civil/Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$73K - $132K/yr

We are seeking a Licensed Senior Civil/Structural Engineer with 5+ years of experience within the ... If remote, our preference is for candidate to reside in either Eastern or Central time zone. Grow ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsPrincipal Structural Engineer JobsRemote Principal Structural Engineer JobsRemote Principal Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Remote Principal Structural Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$76.2K

$151.7K

$218.9K

How much do remote principal structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote principal structural engineer in Chicago, IL is $151,658.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,100.00 and $178,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote principal structural engineer?

Remote Principal Structural Engineers are highly experienced structural engineering professionals who work primarily from a remote location. They are responsible for leading and overseeing structural engineering projects, ensuring safety, compliance, and innovation in design and analysis. Their duties often include mentoring junior engineers, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and providing expert guidance throughout the project lifecycle. Working remotely, they utilize digital collaboration tools to communicate with clients and stakeholders, manage documentation, and review designs. This role typically requires an advanced degree, professional licensure, and significant experience in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote principal structural engineer?

To thrive as a Remote Principal Structural Engineer, you need an advanced understanding of structural analysis, design principles, and building codes, often supported by a degree in civil or structural engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with structural modeling software such as SAP2000, ETABS, or Revit, as well as experience with project management tools, is typically required. Strong leadership, clear communication, and problem-solving abilities are essential soft skills for coordinating remote teams and delivering innovative solutions. These skills ensure project safety, regulatory compliance, and effective collaboration in a remote engineering environment.

How does a remote principal structural engineer effectively lead and collaborate with distributed project teams?

As a Remote Principal Structural Engineer, you'll typically lead multidisciplinary teams across multiple locations, using digital collaboration tools such as BIM platforms, project management software, and virtual meeting applications. Clear communication and proactive coordination are essential to ensure design consistency, address technical challenges, and meet project deadlines. You'll regularly review deliverables, provide technical guidance, and mentor junior engineers while fostering a culture of accountability and knowledge sharing. This role often involves balancing independent work with team interactions to maintain project momentum and high-quality outcomes.

What is the difference between Remote Principal Structural Engineer vs Remote Structural Engineer?

AspectRemote Principal Structural EngineerRemote Structural Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires PE license, advanced degrees, and extensive experienceUsually requires a PE license or equivalent, with less experience needed
Work EnvironmentLeads projects, manages teams, and interacts with clients remotelyPerforms design and analysis tasks primarily independently or in small teams
Industry UsageUsed in senior project leadership roles across engineering firmsCommonly employed in design, analysis, and drafting roles
Search & Comparison IntentSeeking senior leadership or project management rolesLooking for technical or entry-level engineering positions

The Remote Principal Structural Engineer typically holds a senior leadership role, overseeing projects and teams, requiring advanced credentials and extensive experience. In contrast, the Remote Structural Engineer focuses on technical design and analysis tasks, often with fewer years of experience. Both roles are essential in the structural engineering industry but differ in responsibilities and seniority level.

Can a remote principal structural engineer work remotely?

A remote principal structural engineer can work remotely, as many companies in the engineering field allow for telecommuting, especially for roles involving design, analysis, and project management that can be performed using CAD software and collaboration tools. However, some responsibilities, such as site visits or inspections, may require in-person presence depending on project requirements and company policies.

How much does a remote principal structural engineer make?

A remote principal structural engineer typically earns between $120,000 and $180,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior-level roles often require advanced certifications and expertise in design software such as AutoCAD or Revit.

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Principal Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Remote Principal Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Remote Principal Structural Engineer job openings:

Remote Principal Structural Engineer jobs near you

Copy of Senior Structural Engineer (OpenSees | AI Training & Evaluation)

Lifted, an Upwork Company™

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$80 - $110/hr

Contractor

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Company Description

An enterprise client is seeking experienced Structural Engineers to help train and evaluate next-generation AI systems. This opportunity is part of a large-scale initiative focused on improving how AI models solve complex structural engineering problems and generate technically accurate engineering solutions.

You will work alongside a community of subject matter experts contributing real-world engineering knowledge to help shape the future of Generative AI.

    Job Description

    This opportunity is ideal for experienced Structural Engineers who enjoy solving complex engineering problems and want to apply their expertise to cutting-edge AI technology.

    What You'll Do:

    • Design realistic AI training tasks based on structural engineering concepts and real-world design challenges.
    • Create clear engineering problem statements covering structural analysis, design, simulation, and code compliance.
    • Develop reference solutions and deterministic scoring criteria to evaluate AI-generated responses.
    • Build engineering tasks using OpenSees and other structural engineering methodologies.
    • Create evaluation scenarios involving topics such as:
      • Pushover analysis
      • Seismic design
      • Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
      • Reinforced concrete design
      • Steel connection detailing
      • Structural retrofit
    • Review AI-generated engineering solutions for technical accuracy, engineering judgment, and compliance with applicable design codes.
    • Provide structured feedback that helps improve AI performance in structural engineering.
    • Work independently in a fully remote, flexible environment.
    Qualifications

    Requirements:

    • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a closely related field (Master's or PhD is a plus).
    • Professional experience in structural analysis and structural design.
    • Hands-on experience using OpenSees.
    • Strong understanding of structural design standards such as ACI 318, AISC 360, or Eurocode (EN 1992, EN 1993, EN 1998).
    • Experience with structural engineering concepts including nonlinear modeling, response spectrum analysis, pushover analysis, or performance-based design.
    • Ability to write clear, detailed, and technically accurate engineering documentation.
    • Strong analytical thinking and attention to detail.
    • Excellent written English communication skills.
    • Ability to work independently and manage your own schedule.

    Nice to Haves:

    • Master's degree or PhD in Structural Engineering or a related discipline.
    • Experience with advanced seismic engineering or structural retrofit projects.
    • Experience with finite element modeling and structural simulation.
    • Previous experience reviewing technical work, conducting research, or developing engineering assessments.
    • Interest or experience in AI, machine learning, or engineering model evaluation.
    Additional Information
    • Fully remote, project-based opportunity.
    • Flexible schedule - work whenever it fits your availability.
    • Compensation ranges from $80-110 USD per hour, depending on experience.
    • Expected workload is 10-39 hours per week, though project volume may fluctuate.
    • Payments are issued weekly for work completed during the previous week.
    • If selected, you will receive an Upwork contract offer along with onboarding instructions for the client's task platform.

    Apply