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Steel Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Summary Reporting to the Manager of Design Engineering, this position serves as the steel fabrication subject-matter expert for the design department. The role provides technical leadership in the ...

Steel Painter/Load

York, PA · On-site

$18 - $24.25/hr

Our certified and highly-skilled teams specialize in structural steel design, engineering, detailing, fabrication, erection and retrofit to existing structural members. The Painter/Load is ...

Structural Steel Fitter

Olean, NY · On-site

$21 - $28/hr

Cimolai-HY combines the unique capabilities of each to provide best-in-class structural steel design and fabrication services to our clients. Cimolai HY is committed to providing equal employment ...

Showing results 41-60

Steel Design information

See salary details

$42K

$114.5K

$201.5K

How much do steel design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for steel design in the United States is $114,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is steel design?

Steel design is the process of planning and creating structural elements and frameworks using steel as the primary material. It involves determining the type, size, and arrangement of steel components such as beams, columns, and connections to ensure safety, stability, and cost-effectiveness in buildings, bridges, or other structures. Steel designers use engineering principles, industry standards, and computer software to analyze loads and optimize designs that comply with building codes. Their work is crucial for ensuring that structures can withstand environmental forces and usage demands over time.

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

A Steel Design Engineer needs a solid background in structural engineering principles, proficiency in steel design codes, and typically a degree in civil or structural engineering. Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, Tekla Structures, and STAAD.Pro, as well as knowledge of relevant certifications like PE or SE licensure, is highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and ensure constructible designs. These competencies are crucial for creating safe, efficient, and compliant steel structures that meet project requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by steel design engineers when coordinating with other disciplines on large construction projects?

Steel design engineers often collaborate closely with architects, civil engineers, and construction teams. A frequent challenge is ensuring that structural steel elements integrate seamlessly with architectural features and building systems like HVAC or electrical conduits. Differences in design software, changes in project requirements, and tight deadlines can require clear communication and flexibility. Proactively participating in coordination meetings and keeping detailed documentation can help resolve conflicts and deliver efficient, safe designs.

What is the difference between Steel Design vs Structural Engineer?

AspectSteel DesignStructural Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, steel design certifications (e.g., AISC)Engineering degree, PE license, structural certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, CAD software, project planningDesign offices, construction sites, field inspections
Industry UsageFocuses on steel components and frameworksBroader scope including concrete, wood, and steel structures
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for specialized design rolesMore general, includes steel design as a subset

Steel Design professionals specialize in creating detailed steel frameworks and components, often working closely with structural engineers. Structural Engineers have a broader role, overseeing entire structural systems, including steel, concrete, and other materials. While both roles require engineering credentials, Steel Design focuses specifically on steel elements, making it a specialized subset within the structural engineering field.

Are steel design workers in demand?

Steel design workers are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects, construction, and the need for structural engineering expertise. Skills in CAD software and knowledge of building codes enhance employability in this field.
More about Steel Design jobs
Infographic showing various Steel Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,491 per year, or $55 per hour.

Structural Steel Estimator, Steel Procurement

Clayco

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Clayco rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Us

Clayco is a full-service, turnkey real estate development, master planning, architecture, engineering, and construction firm that safely delivers clients across North America the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $7.6 billion in revenue for 2024, Clayco specializes in the "art and science of building," providing fast track, efficient solutions for industrial, commercial, institutional, and residential related building projects.

About CDC

Clayco’s Consolidated Distribution Company (CDC) uses its extensive relationships to secure competitive pricing and product availability. By negotiating with top brands and manufacturers, CDC provides cost-effective solutions for construction equipment, materials, and finishes. It excels in managing complex projects through strategic sourcing and mass purchasing, offering integrated design, and purchasing power for both internal and external clients.

The Role We Want You For

The primary function of the Structural Steel Estimator, Steel Procurement is to provide accurate bid proposals for Structural Steel and scope analysis for potential construction projects.

The Specifics of the Role

  • Responsible for accurate material quantity take-off.
  • Develops comprehensive, detailed proposal for the project estimated.
  • Maintain project budget throughout each project, with profit and loss accountability.
  • Identify opportunities for change orders and establish cost where applicable.
  • Prepare, issue and track change order status for material above and beyond the original contract.
  • Develop options and recommend best value solutions based on cost, engineering, quality, or availability of materials.
  • Additional responsibilities include quote review, project management, and material purchasing.
  • Ensure department achieves goals through management and leadership mentality.

Functions as Lead Estimator.

Requirements

  • Bachelors Degree in Construction Management or Engineering discipline preferred.
  • 5+ years of experience.
  • Knowledge and understanding of Structural Steel and Miscellaneous Metals.
  • Knowledge and understanding of building construction combined with steel design concepts presented on architectural and engineering drawings.
  • Ability to prepare proposals with minimum supervision.
  • Candidates must have a strong understanding of detailed estimating, estimating techniques and cost control.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. Candidates should be able to clearly articulate bid inclusions, exclusions, and proposal clarifications with owners and subcontractors.
  • Must be able to multitask and prioritize responsibilities.
  • Review proposals, specifications, drawing, attend pre-bid meetings, etc. to determine scope of work and develop quantity take-offs.
  • Develops and maintains relationships with general contractor.
  • Responsible for buyout process with Project Manager.
  • Knowledge of construction principles/practices required.
  • Problem-solving skills, with an adaptable and flexible style in working with all types of individuals.
  • Project set up, budget planning, buy out, and cost reporting experience is a must.
  • Good understanding of critical path scheduling.
  • Energetic and highly motivated with a strong sense of urgency.
  • Entrepreneurial and self-motivated, with the ability to work equally well on own as well as in a team environment.
  • Ability to understand construction drawings and specifications.
  • Ability to work with Microsoft Office Suite, On-Screen Estimating software, and ACC Build.

Some Things You Should Know

  • This position will be based out of St. Louis, MO.
  • No other builder can offer the collaborative design-build approach that Clayco does.
  • We work on creative, complex, award-winning, high-profile jobs.
  • The pace is fast!

Why Clayco?

  • 2025 Best Places to Work – St. Louis Business Journal, Los Angeles Business Journal, and Phoenix Business Journal.
  • 2025 ENR Midwest – Midwest Contractor (#1).
  • 2025 ENR Top 100 Design-Build Firms – Design-Build Contractor (Top 5).
  • 2025 ENR Top 100 Green Contractors – Green Contractor (Top 3).
  • 2025 ENR Top 25 Data Center Builders - Data Center Contractor (Top 3).

Benefits

  • Discretionary Annual Bonus: Subject to company and individual performance.
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package Including: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401k, generous PTO and paid company holidays, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability coverage, learning & development programs and more!

Compensation

  • The salary range for this position considers a wide range of factors in making compensation decisions including but not limited to: Education, qualifications, skills, training, experience, certifications, internal equity, and location. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.

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