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Structural Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

County Materials Corporation

Design Engineer

Westmont, IL · On-site

$82K - $124K/yr

The Design Engineer (Precast Concrete) supports projects from initial design through fabrication ... Design structural frames, precast components, and connections for standardized and moderately ...

Luxus

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

Key Responsibilities Structural Design & Analysis * Design transportation structures including highway bridges, retaining walls, and box culverts. * Prepare structural analysis and design ...

Luxus

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

Key Responsibilities Structural Design & Analysis * Design transportation structures including highway bridges, retaining walls, and box culverts. * Prepare structural analysis and design ...

Luxus

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Key Responsibilities Structural Design & Analysis * Design transportation structures including highway bridges, retaining walls, and box culverts. * Prepare structural analysis and design ...

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All JobsStructural Design Engineer JobsStructural Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Structural Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$23.7K

$105.9K

$164.8K

How much do structural design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural design engineer in Chicago, IL is $105,872.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,200.00 and $136,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a structural design engineer?

Structural Design Engineers are professionals who analyze, design, and plan the structural systems for buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure to ensure they are safe, stable, and meet all relevant codes and standards. They use their expertise in materials, physics, and engineering principles to create designs that can withstand loads and environmental factors. Their work often involves collaborating with architects, contractors, and other engineers throughout the construction process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural design engineer?

To thrive as a Structural Design Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or structural engineering, proficiency in mathematics and physics, and typically a bachelor's degree in engineering along with relevant licensure (such as a PE). Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, SAP2000, ETABS, and Revit, as well as knowledge of building codes and standards, is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with project teams and stakeholders. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and compliant structural designs that meet project requirements and support public safety.

What are the typical challenges structural design engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Structural Design Engineers often collaborate with architects, mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers, which can present challenges in aligning design objectives and timelines. Balancing structural integrity with aesthetic and functional requirements requires clear communication and compromise. Additionally, adapting to varying codes, standards, and client expectations across projects adds complexity, making effective project coordination and problem-solving skills essential for success.

What is the difference between Structural Design Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectStructural Design EngineerCivil Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and analyzing structural systems for buildings, bridges, and infrastructurePlanning, designing, and overseeing construction of various civil projects including roads, water systems, and buildings
CredentialsEngineering degree, often with specialization in structural engineering, PE licenseEngineering degree, PE license, and broader civil engineering credentials
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, consulting firmsConstruction sites, urban planning agencies, consulting firms
Industry UsageCommonly employed in structural and architectural firmsUsed across civil infrastructure, transportation, and urban development sectors

While both roles require engineering credentials and often overlap in project collaboration, Structural Design Engineers specialize in creating safe, efficient structural systems, whereas Civil Engineers have a broader scope including infrastructure planning and development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Structural Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Structural Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Structural Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Structural Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Design Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Structural Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Design Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,872 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Structural Design Engineer

Larson Engineering

Naperville, IL • On-site

$92K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Build your future on our foundation of excellence!
Are you looking for a rewarding career opportunity that also gives you a stake in a company's performance as an employee-owner? Larson Engineering, Inc. has a long-standing record of success since its establishment in 1979 and has received the 2023 PSMJ A/E/C Employer of Choice award.
Larson is an Equal Opportunity Employer and wants to remove any barriers to employment, so if you have any accommodation requirements as part of the application or interview process, please let us know.
Description
We are looking for a structural engineer with five or more years of experience. A self-starter with good communication skills is essential. Self-discipline, willingness to learn, and flexibility required. This hybrid position can be based in either the Naperville or Chicago office.
Basic Qualifications
  • B.S. in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited program
  • EIT certification
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD
  • MS Office experience (Word and Excel)
  • Self-motivated and strong attention to detail
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Licensed Structural Engineer
  • Revit experience

Benefits
Larson provides a challenging and empowered environment that encourages employee growth and provides flexibility for your active life outside of work. Full-time positions offer competitive benefits including health and dental insurance, paid holidays, generous paid time off, and professional development opportunities. Our employees can feel secure about their retirement future through 401(k) contributions and an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP). As an employee-owner, you benefit from the success of Larson.
Please Note
This position may be subject to a pre-employment background check.
Larson Engineering is an EEO firm that uses E-Verification for employment.

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