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Retaining Wall Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

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Retaining Wall Engineer information

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$6

$26

$50

How much do retaining wall engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for retaining wall engineer in Illinois is $26.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.98 and $35.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a retaining wall engineer do?

A Retaining Wall Engineer is a specialized civil engineer who designs, analyzes, and oversees the construction of retaining walls, which are structures built to hold back soil or rock from a building, structure, or area. Their responsibilities include conducting site assessments, selecting appropriate materials, ensuring structural stability, and complying with local building codes. They work closely with contractors, architects, and geotechnical engineers to create safe and cost-effective retaining wall solutions. Their expertise is essential in preventing soil erosion, managing sloped landscapes, and protecting properties from landslides or flooding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a retaining wall engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Retaining Wall Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, a relevant engineering degree, and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and structural analysis tools, along with knowledge of construction codes and standards, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with clients and construction teams. These competencies ensure the safe, cost-effective, and durable design and construction of retaining wall structures.

What are some common challenges retaining wall engineers face during project execution, and how can they be addressed?

Retaining Wall Engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected soil conditions, water drainage issues, and site accessibility constraints. Successfully addressing these challenges requires close collaboration with geotechnical engineers, regular site inspections, and proactive communication with construction teams. Utilizing advanced modeling software and thorough site investigations before construction begins can help mitigate risks. Staying up-to-date on local regulations and best practices also ensures compliant and durable designs.

What is the difference between Retaining Wall Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectRetaining Wall EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, specialized training in retaining structuresEngineering degree, broad civil engineering certification
Work EnvironmentDesigning and analyzing retaining walls, site-specific projectsWide range of infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, and buildings
Industry UsageSpecific to geotechnical and structural projects involving retaining wallsGeneral industry usage across various civil engineering sectors

Retaining Wall Engineers focus specifically on designing and analyzing retaining structures, requiring specialized knowledge in geotechnical engineering. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on diverse infrastructure projects. While both roles require an engineering degree, Retaining Wall Engineers possess targeted expertise in retaining structures, making them more specialized for projects involving retaining walls.

What are popular job titles related to Retaining Wall Engineer jobs in Illinois?

For Retaining Wall Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Retaining Wall Engineer jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Retaining Wall Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Retaining Wall Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Retaining Wall Engineer job openings:

Retaining Wall Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Retaining Wall Engineer job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,417 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Bridge Structural Engineer

Baxter and Woodman Inc

Peoria, IL • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Bridge Structural Engineer

Choose your location: Crystal Lake, Chicago, Naperville, Mokena, Peoria Heights, Bannockburn, IL offices; Hybrid; or Fully Remote.

About the role, Your Impact

Baxter & Woodman has a rewarding opportunity for a Structural Engineer in any one of our Illinois offices. This position will primarily consist of bridge and retaining wall planning and design engineering on a variety of transportation projects throughout our national service area. In addition to traditional design and inspection, our structural engineers support our Construction and Design-Build groups across our entire service area working for State, County, and Local Agencies. This team-oriented position will include working with Baxter & Woodman’s diverse disciplines and offices within the transportation and construction fields.

What your day-to-day will look like
  • Complete bridge and retaining wall design plans following IDOT, Illinois Tollway, other state DOT, and AASHTO standards.
  • Complete or assist with IDOT or Local Agency Federal Aid Phase I and II projects for a variety of clients.
  • Lead or assist with a variety of structural engineering studies in Illinois, Wisconsin, Florida and Texas.
  • Complete general structural engineering services for municipal, county and state clients including inspections, evaluation reports, and plan reviews.
Education and Certification Requirements
  • B.S. degree in Civil Engineering.
Must-Haves, What You Will Bring
  • 5+ years’ experience completing Structural Engineering design plans and studies.
  • Ability to travel throughout Baxter & Woodman’s Illinois service areas (own transportation) and attend client and in office meetings as required.
  • Ability to independently handle a variety of ongoing tasks and responsibilities.
  • Strong written, verbal, computer, and organizational skills.
  • Work within a Team-first culture that encourages individual development and accomplishment of goals.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Licensed Professional Engineer preferred.
  • Licensed Structural Engineer preferred.
  • Proficiency with MicroStation design software.
Compensation

The pay range for this role is $90,000 to $130,000. Actual compensation packages are based on several factors that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, depth of experience, and certifications.

You Matter! Our Outstanding Benefits

At our organization, we prioritize the holistic well-being of our employees through a comprehensive range of benefits. This commitment is evident in our healthcare offerings, including medical, dental, and vision plans, alongside an Employee Assistance Program and dedicated benefit advisors for personalized support. Financial well-being is enhanced through our financial planning program, life and disability insurance, tax savings plans, and coverage for accidents, and cancer. Balancing work and life, we provide generous paid time off, paid holidays, parental leave, and flexible work arrangements, including the option to work from home on half Fridays and varied schedules. Additionally, we lead the industry by offering 401k plans, supported by expert financial advisors, and an Employee Stock Ownership program, ensuring our employees are not just part of a workplace but a thriving, supportive community dedicated to their well-being, financial security, and happiness.

Baxter & Woodman is an equal opportunity - Vet/Disability employer.

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