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Senior Structural Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

GFT is seeking an experienced Senior Structural Engineer - Substation to join our expanding Power Group in either St. Louis, MO, Roanoke, VA, Charlotte, NC, Pittsburgh, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Chicago, IL ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$92K - $125K/yr

The Role The Senior Structural Engineer I (PE) is a licensed professional engineer responsible for leading technical aspects of engineering projects. This role involves providing expert-level ...

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Senior Structural Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$92K - $125K/yr

The Role The Senior Structural Engineer I (PE) is a licensed professional engineer responsible for leading technical aspects of engineering projects. This role involves providing expert-level ...

Apply Early

Be Seen First

Professional Engineer license required. Small consulting firm looking for senior structural engineer with project management experience. Ideal candidate is interested in transitioning to firm ...

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$99K - $135K/yr

As a Senior Structural Engineer, you will independently apply, plan, design, direct, organize, execute, and recommend related activities of structural engineering projects within the organization.

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Senior Structural Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

$104K - $156K/yr

The Structural Engineer will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of structures to ensure they are safe, sustainable, and cost-effective. This includes buildings ...

IMEG is hiring a Senior Structural Engineer in Fairfax, VA, to lead large and highly complex structural projects with minimal support from senior staff. In this role, you will provide project ...

Overview ABOUT THE POSITION Senior Structural Bridge Engineer | Washington D.C. | Tysons Corner, VA | Hybrid VHB's structural engineering group plays a vital role in enhancing connectivity through ...

VA · On-site

$104K - $156K/yr

The Structural Engineer will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of structures to ensure they are safe, sustainable, and cost-effective. This includes buildings ...

VA · On-site

$104K - $156K/yr

The Structural Engineer will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of structures to ensure they are safe, sustainable, and cost-effective. This includes buildings ...

Structural Engineer Senior 3

Tysons, VA · On-site

$104K - $156K/yr

The Structural Engineer will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of structures to ensure they are safe, sustainable, and cost-effective. This includes buildings ...

Structural Engineer Senior 3

Richmond, VA · On-site

$104K - $153K/yr

The Structural Engineer will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of structures to ensure they are safe, sustainable, and cost-effective. This includes buildings ...

$97K - $132K/yr

As a Senior Structural Engineer (NSQEP), you will contribute to the delivery of complex structural engineering projects across the defence, research and nuclear sectors. Working as part of a ...

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Showing results 1-20

Senior Structural Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$70.9K

$119.8K

$169K

How much do senior structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior structural engineer in Virginia is $119,781.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,600.00 and $135,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior structural engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in large firms or specialized projects can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or competitive markets.

What does a Senior Structural Engineer do?

A Senior Structural Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and overseeing the construction of buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure they are safe, stable, and comply with relevant codes. They lead project teams, review calculations and drawings, and provide technical guidance to junior engineers. Additionally, they collaborate with architects, contractors, and clients to deliver projects on time and within budget, while also addressing any structural issues that may arise during construction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Structural Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Structural Engineer, you need an accredited engineering degree, professional licensure (such as PE or Chartered Engineer), and deep expertise in structural analysis and design. Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, Revit, SAP2000, or ETABS, as well as knowledge of relevant building codes, is essential. Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensuring safe, efficient designs and effective collaboration across multidisciplinary teams and complex projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Structural Engineers when managing large-scale projects?

Senior Structural Engineers often face the challenge of coordinating multidisciplinary teams and ensuring that all aspects of structural design integrate seamlessly with architectural and mechanical systems. Managing tight project timelines and adapting to evolving client requirements while maintaining compliance with safety standards is also common. Additionally, they may need to troubleshoot unexpected site conditions and communicate complex technical information effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. These challenges require strong project management and leadership skills, as well as the ability to make informed decisions under pressure.

What is the highest paying job in structural engineering?

The highest paying roles in structural engineering typically include senior-level positions such as Principal Structural Engineer or Engineering Manager, especially in large firms or specialized industries like aerospace or nuclear facilities. These roles often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and expertise in complex projects, leading to higher salaries compared to entry- or mid-level positions.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior structural engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills in large-scale projects can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, consulting positions, or working in high-cost-of-living areas, especially when combined with overtime or bonuses.

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

AspectSenior Structural EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a PE license, BS or MS in Civil/Structural EngineeringRequires a PE license, BS or MS in Civil/Structural Engineering
Work EnvironmentLeads projects, mentors junior staff, interacts with clientsPerforms design, analysis, and calculations under supervision
ResponsibilitiesProject management, complex design decisions, client communicationDesign calculations, drafting, supporting senior staff

The main difference is experience and responsibility level. Senior Structural Engineers lead projects and mentor others, while Structural Engineers focus on technical tasks under supervision. Both roles require similar credentials and work in the same industry environment.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior structural engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and specialized skills can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries or large firms. Achieving this level often requires a combination of technical expertise, project management ability, and sometimes working in metropolitan areas or on large-scale projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Structural Engineer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,781 per year, or $57.6 per hour.

Senior Structural Engineer - Substation

GFT.

Roanoke, VA • On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

GFT is seeking an experienced Senior Structural Engineer - Substation to join our expanding Power Group in either St. Louis, MO, Roanoke, VA, Charlotte, NC, Pittsburgh, PA, Phoenix, AZ, Chicago, IL or Marlton, NJ or remote for the right candidate. 

Joining the power team at GFT means engaging in cutting-edge projects that drive the future of energy infrastructure. Our team excels in providing solutions for power transmission, distribution, and renewable energy, utilizing advanced technologies and creative problem-solving to meet today's diverse energy needs. Be part of a dynamic group dedicated to enhancing system reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while shaping the energy landscape for a resilient and sustainable future. Discover some of our signature power and energy projects here. 

What you'll be challenged to do:

As a substation structural engineer, you will lead or support utility and power substation projects and clients.

You will have need to have experience supporting or leading various substation projects from 34.5kV up through 500kV.  In addition, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate your ability to build effective relationships with clients and key stakeholders in the Power & Utility industry.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • Develop substation structural steel and foundation drawings on new and existing substations.
  • Prepare substation structural steel and foundation calculations for new and existing substations.
  • Prepare specifications, for substation structural materials.
  • Collaborate internally to pursue power substation projects regionally and nationally with the objective of increasing Gannett Fleming presence in the power delivery business.
  • Develop and nurture client relationships and work across multiple disciplines in other office.
  • Assume an active role in the preparation of proposals bids, reports and presentations.
What you will bring to our firm: 
  • Minimum Bachelor's degree in Civil and/or Structural Engineering.
  • Professional Engineer License or on the path to obtaining professional licensure.
  • 8+ years progressive experience in design, engineering and project management within power and utility industry.
  • Interest in or direct experience working in the consulting engineering profession.
  • Demonstrated ability with project management software and tools (Microsoft Project or similar) for scope, schedule and budget management.
  • Design experience in high voltage substation, and transmission projects.
  • Experience in the creation of quality technical solutions and the design delivery of major power delivery projects.
  • Commitment to driving strong business performance, continuous improvement, and best practices.
 What we prefer you bring: 
  • Advanced Degree strongly preferred.
  • Experience with AutoCAD, MicroStation or Inventor
  • Experience with structural engineering finite element software
 Compensation:The salary range for this role is $110,000.00 - $150,000.00 Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location. Featured Benefits:  Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment. Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance. Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan. Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual. Tuition reimbursement for continued education. Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships - that's why we're the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry's brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century's experience, together we're building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans' status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions. 

Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PMEmployment Status: Full-Time

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Employment Type: FULL_TIME