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Senior Civil Structural Designer Jobs in Virginia

Senior Civil Designer

Reston, VA · On-site

$123K - $178K/yr

Reviews key civil/structural engineering drawings and calculations and bid summaries * Mentors civil designers and drafters by providing appropriate on-the-job training for their professional ...

You will prepare drawings, facilitate discussions, communicate complex technical issues, and prepare civil/structural design estimates and work plan. Your recommendations will ensure designs and work ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for an Entry-Level Structural Designer in our growing ... in Civil or Structural Engineering with zero to two years of relevant experience * EIT ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for an Entry-Level Structural Designer in our growing ... in Civil or Structural Engineering with zero to two years of relevant experience * EIT ...

We are offering an exciting opportunity for an Entry-Level Structural Designer in our growing ... in Civil or Structural Engineering with zero to two years of relevant experience * EIT ...

Guides students through designing beams, columns, and connections in steel and concrete ... Familiar with PE Civil Structural depth examination and common challenges such as navigating ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Civil Structural Designer information

See Virginia salary details

$25

$49

$72

How much do senior civil structural designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior civil structural designer in Virginia is $49.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.16 and $56.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior civil structural designer?

Senior Civil Structural Designers are experienced professionals responsible for creating and overseeing the design of structures such as buildings, bridges, and infrastructure projects. They use advanced engineering principles and software to develop detailed drawings and plans that ensure safety, functionality, and compliance with regulations. In addition to designing, they often coordinate with engineers, architects, and construction teams, review project specifications, and mentor junior designers. Their expertise is crucial for addressing complex design challenges and ensuring project success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior civil structural designer?

To excel as a Senior Civil Structural Designer, you need a solid background in structural engineering principles, design codes, and construction methods, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant industry experience. Proficiency in CAD software (such as AutoCAD, Revit, or MicroStation), structural analysis tools, and familiarity with industry standards (like AISC or Eurocodes) are essential, and certifications such as PE or CET can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart, especially when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and cost-effective design and documentation of structures, directly impacting project success and compliance.

What is the difference between Senior Civil Structural Designer vs Civil Structural Engineer?

AspectSenior Civil Structural DesignerCivil Structural Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, with significant design experienceRequires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, often with licensure (PE)
Work EnvironmentFocuses on detailed design, drafting, and project documentation within engineering teamsInvolves analysis, design, and oversight of structural projects, often with more engineering analysis
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in consulting firms, construction companies, and engineering servicesCommonly employed in engineering consulting, construction, and infrastructure projects

While both roles require a background in civil or structural engineering, the Senior Civil Structural Designer primarily handles detailed design and drafting tasks, whereas the Civil Structural Engineer is more involved in analysis, structural calculations, and project oversight. The roles often overlap, but engineers typically have licensure and broader responsibilities in project design and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by senior civil structural designers when coordinating with multidisciplinary teams?

Senior Civil Structural Designers often collaborate with architects, mechanical, electrical, and construction professionals. A key challenge is ensuring that structural designs align with architectural intent and mechanical/electrical requirements without compromising safety or constructability. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are essential to resolve conflicts and integrate feedback from different disciplines, especially during tight project timelines. Leveraging collaborative design tools and maintaining clear documentation can help streamline coordination and minimize rework.
What are popular job titles related to Senior Civil Structural Designer jobs in Virginia? For Senior Civil Structural Designer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Civil Structural Designer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Civil Structural Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Civil Structural Designer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,934 per year, or $49 per hour.

Staff Civil Structural Engineer - Ports & Maritime (Mid-Atlantic Region)

Burns & McDonnell

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

Description
The Staff Civil/Structural Engineer will be a key member of project teams, responsible for creating world-class designs for new projects, alterations and redevelopments on a variety of projects with a focus on marine structures, including piers, wharfs, bulkheads, fender systems and other related structures. The Staff Civil/Structural Engineer will be a key driver on the project team, responsible for balancing design integrity with project constraints by developing civil and structural plans to meet technical requirements, budget and client needs.
We are seeking an engineer who is interested to
  • Work with Senior Civil/Structural Engineers and lead the civil/structural design of projects from the conceptual phase through design completion.
  • Design and analyze civil/structural components for a variety of projects.
  • Apply advanced knowledge of commonly used civil/structural engineering design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures.
  • Conduct research and compile project-related data, studies, and reports.
  • Prepare and review drawings, specifications, and other engineering documents.
  • Lead client presentations, shop drawing review, and contract administration.
  • Perform and oversee field inspections, measurements, and calculations.
  • Mentor and guide junior engineers and designers.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Comply with all policies and standards.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in civil, structural, or related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program required or;
  • Bachelor's degree in civil, structural, or related engineering technology from an ABET-accredited program and successful completion of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam required.
  • Minimum of 3-5 years of related professional experience in civil/structural engineering, preferably in a consulting environment.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license is strongly preferred, or the ability to obtain one within a year. Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification is required.
  • Advanced knowledge of standard civil/structural engineering techniques, principles, and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to work independently and lead tasks.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and engineering software such as AutoCAD, MicroStation, BIM (Revit), Civil 3D, RISA-3D, and other relevant analysis programs.
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated leadership and mentoring skills.
  • Candidates must be legally authorized to work permanently (i.e., without time limitations, without restrictions or without the need for work sponsorship) in the country where this position is located.

This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Civil Engineering
Primary Location US-VA-Norfolk
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 10 % of the Time
Req ID: 254879
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-JH #TRN

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About Burns & McDonnell

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Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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