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Retaining Wall Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Bridges Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $100K/yr

Description Performs transportation structural engineering assignments involving transportation related structural plans including bridges, retaining walls, and culverts, surveys, investigations, and ...

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Retaining Wall Engineer information

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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Retaining Wall Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Retaining Wall Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Retaining Wall Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Retaining Wall Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Retaining Wall Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Senior Structural Bridge Engineer (SE)

Primera Engineers

Chicago, IL • On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description

Performs transportation structural engineering assignments involving transportation related structural plans including bridges, retaining walls, and culverts, surveys, investigations, and equipment for private, public, and transportation projects. Work is reviewed for the application of sound professional judgment. On a task basis, is responsible for preparation and completion of discipline engineering designs that are responsive to project needs. Tasks are performed under the supervision of a Senior Engineer.  

WHO WE ARE

We're a people-first organization. We value knowledge and learning. We believe in the power of connection and collaboration and we seek to build relationships that mean something. We employ some of the best and brightest in the industry and we work hard to maintain a culture that our people can be proud of. The secret to our success is our ability to connect with clients to provide a first-class customer experience.   

WORKING FOR PRIMERA

Our Transportation division is a talented team of experts working together to deliver engineering solutions that move people in a smarter way. We provide full-service planning, design and construction management services on everything from roadways and bridges to airports, stormwater infrastructure, and parks/recreation projects primarily for state and local agencies and municipalities.   

WHO YOU ARE

  • You studied structural/civil engineering. You have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering with a structural emphasis. A master's degree is preferred. Having a Structural Engineering license (SE) is required, and a Professional Engineering (PE) license is preferred. 
  • You're looking to build your expertise working on bridge and roadway structure projects. You have at least eight years of experience in the transportation market, and you're knowledgeable of relevant codes and standards (AASHTO, IDOT, ISTHA, AREMA). You also have design knowledge of key structural elements such as bridges superstructure and substructure, foundations, retaining walls, and culverts. 
  • You are a multitasker with strong research and problem-solving skills and an enviable attention to detail. 
  • You're proficient with business and engineering applications. Microsoft Office, MicroStation and/or AutoCAD proficiency are a must.  
  • You're a people person with the ability to interface and collaborate effectively with team members. You're comfortable working independently or with others.  

WHAT YOU'LL DO

  • You'll assist in the design process for bridge, culvert or retaining wall structures through applying standard practices and techniques of structural engineering for private and public projects. You'll also help prepare structural plans, specifications, cost estimates, supporting documents, and permit applications. 
  • You'll handle project coordination. You'll connect and collaborate internally and externally with coworkers, vendors, and clients, and maintain project documentation such as calculations and project filing. 
  • You'll learn and grow. You'll build upon an already impressive structural career. You will work on exciting projects and perform assignments designed to continue to develop your professional knowledge and abilities. You'll both assist and learn from more senior structural engineers, and you'll exercise your good judgement in making preliminary selections and adaptations of engineering alternatives. 
  • You'll enjoy what you do. You'll work with great people, continue to learn and grow, and have a good time doing it. 

 SOME OF WHAT YOU'LL ENJOY

  •  An excellent benefits package including 401K match, gym and transit subsidies, continuing education reimbursement and much more
  • Flexible work scheduling in a fast-growing company
  • A fun, inclusive, and collaborative environment
  • Colleagues that appreciate differences in people, perspectives, cultures, and ideas
  • The fruits of our employee-led committees focused on offering engaging social, wellness and community service activities all year long

For more information about Primera please visit our website: PrimeraEng.com.   

Equal Employment Opportunity

Primera is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity. Primera's practices and employment decisions, including those regarding recruitment, hiring, assignment, promotion and compensation, shall not be based on any person's race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, disability, physical handicap, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship status or other protected group as defined by law.