1

Seismic Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

  • Medical

  • PTO

With extensive experience in seismic engineering and safety-critical infrastructure, you will lead the design, analysis and delivery of complex structures, ensuring compliance with regulatory ...

Showing results 21-40

Seismic Engineer information

What is a seismic engineer?

Seismic engineers are professionals who specialize in designing and analyzing structures to withstand the effects of earthquakes and other seismic activities. They use principles of civil and structural engineering, combined with knowledge of geology and seismology, to ensure buildings, bridges, and infrastructure are safe and resilient. Their work includes assessing seismic risks, developing earthquake-resistant designs, and implementing safety standards to protect lives and property. Seismic engineers often work closely with architects, construction teams, and government agencies to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations.

What is the difference between Seismic Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectSeismic EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, seismic design certificationsEngineering degree, structural design certifications
Work EnvironmentFocus on earthquake-resistant design, analysis of seismic risksDesign and analyze various structural systems for buildings and infrastructure
Industry UsageSpecialized in seismic safety, earthquake engineeringBroadly involved in all structural projects

Seismic Engineers specialize in earthquake-resistant design and seismic risk assessment, focusing on structures' safety during earthquakes. Structural Engineers have a broader role, designing various structural elements for buildings and infrastructure. While both roles require engineering credentials, Seismic Engineers focus more on seismic certifications and earthquake-specific analysis, making them a specialized subset within the structural engineering field.

What are some common challenges seismic engineers face when working on projects in high-risk earthquake zones?

Seismic Engineers working in high-risk earthquake zones often encounter challenges such as balancing strict safety regulations with project budgets, dealing with geological uncertainties, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure structural integrity. They must stay updated on the latest seismic codes and incorporate advanced technologies to mitigate risks. Effective communication with architects, contractors, and local authorities is crucial to address site-specific constraints and deliver resilient designs.

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

To thrive as a Seismic Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or structural engineering, with specialized knowledge in earthquake engineering and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with structural analysis software like SAP2000, ETABS, and seismic design codes, as well as professional engineering certification (such as PE or SE), is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and interpreting complex data. These competencies are crucial for designing structures that can withstand seismic events and ensuring public safety.

What are the most commonly searched types of Seismic Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Seismic Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Seismic Engineer jobs in California?

For Seismic Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Seismic Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Seismic Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Seismic Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Structural Engineer | Design Engineer

Degenkolb Engineers

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข Hybrid

$110K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description


Company Background: Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers has more than eight decades of commitment to innovation, client service, and life-long learning. We deliver customized structural solutions in a variety of practice areas such as healthcare, education, science and technology, forensics, construction engineering, and federal buildings. We address every project need whether those needs are meeting stringent codes, meeting a bottom line, sticking to a hard construction schedule, or developing a structural system that creates a landmark. We're hiring at the Design Engineer level in our Oakland, LA, and Orange offices.

If you are interested in joining our team and do not see your desired position on our "Job Openings" page, please send an email with a targeted cover letter expressing interest to: humanresources@degenkolb.com
Position Description: Create a safe and beautifully built environment through expert engineering consultation, with a commitment to serving the needs of our clients.

Ideal Candidate: Engineers with a strong background in structural/seismic engineering and those who thrive working on multiple interesting projects, while continuing our culture of excellence. Must have technical competence, the ability to perform detailed calculations, and want to be part of a high-performing team that supports your professional development with a challenging mix of projects, mentorship, and lifelong learning opportunities.

Compensation and Benefits: The pay rate for this Design Engineer, across the offices, generally ranges between $110,000 and $126,000 annually. This range is a good faith estimate provided pursuant to pay transparency laws. Actual pay rates will be based on various factors, including location, company geographic differentials, education level and candidate qualifications.

Benefits include health and life insurance, commuter benefits, paid parental leave, 401(k) with company Profit Sharing contribution, employee ownership in a privately held stock plan, financial support for professional activities, company holidays, and a generous paid time off program.
Culture: We offer a flexible hybrid work schedule and a fun office environment! Our firm is highly collaborative and filled with experts who are united by a passion for industry involvement, pride in company ownership, and respect for our personal lives. You will benefit from focused professional development within a highly supportive and transparent team environment. We also offer opportunities for committee participation and leadership, variety in work assignments, and a pay scale set at the 75th market percentile. To learn more about the company, please visit our website using the link below:
https://degenkolb.com/culture/

Job Description:
This staff engineering position requires an ability to work independently with limited direction from senior technical staff and a capacity to provide limited direction to junior technical staff and BIM/CAD Specialists.

Responsibilities:

  • Applies quality control techniques as documented in the Quality Assurance Manual.
  • Writes up portions of contract deliverables such as models, drawings, specifications, and general notes for review by Project Principal.
  • Conducts field checking and field observations to document notes and sketches for future discovery.
  • Prepares comprehensive calculation packages and writing technical reports.
  • Performs as Lead Engineer on small projects.
  • Collaboratively uses judgment to determine adaptations in methods for non-routine aspects of assignments.
  • Ask questions as needed to verify comprehension of design philosophy.
  • Effectively interacts with clients and project team members outside of Degenkolb.


Requirements
:

  • MS in Structural Engineering with 3-5 + years of professional structural/seismic engineering experience
  • Civil Engineering license (PE) required, licensure in Washington or California preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform core duties of job description
  • Active participation in professional activities related to structural or earthquake engineering is a plus
  • Professional communication skills
  • Authorized to work in the United States for any employer

Application Process: Click the Apply Now button. Please submit your resume and a targeted cover letter describing the alignment of your background with this position.

Degenkolb Engineers complies with Equal Opportunity Employer guidelines, meaning we do not discriminate in employment matters on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, military service eligibility, veteran status, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected class. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where a wide range of perspectives, skills, and experiences are welcomed and respected.