ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

Structural

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

At STRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGIES, you will help assess, design, and deliver repair solutions that keep ... Engineering Intern / Engineer-in-Training certification preferred for earlier-career experienced ...

Structural Technologies

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

At STRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGIES, you will help assess, design, and deliver repair solutions that keep ... Engineering Intern / Engineer-in-Training certification preferred for earlier-career experienced ...

Walter P Moore

Structural Intern

Chicago, IL

$27.60 - $38.40/hr

As an engineering intern in our structural engineering group, you will participate on project teams ... design solutions that are cost- and resource-efficient, forward-thinking, and help support and ...

Orion Engineers, LLC

Design Staff Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Preparation of design computations, plans, specifications and quantity and cost estimates ... Intern experience in structural engineering required * 2-5 yrs of work experience in a engineering ...

Orion Engineers

Design Staff Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

Preparation of design computations, plans, specifications and quantity and cost estimates ... Intern experience in structural engineering required * 2-5 yrs of work experience in a engineering ...

CB&I

Intern

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$24 - $28/hr

Mechanical/Civil/Structural for Plate Structures Design: Design and analysis of plate structures, creation of calculations, assist with preparation of estimates. * Mechanical/Civil/Structural for ...

Walter P Moore

Diagnostics Intern

Chicago, IL

$27.60 - $38.40/hr

Providing structural, diagnostics, civil, traffic, parking, transportation, enclosure, WPM technology and construction engineering services, we design solutions that are cost- and resource-efficient ...

Hansoninc

Bridge Civil Engineer (EIT)

Lisle, IL · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

Conduct analysis and design, calculation, preparation of specifications, details, and construction ... The ability to sit for the 16-hour NCEES Structural exam * Registration as an Engineer Intern (EI ...

Schnabel

Construction and Engineering Internship

Cary, IL

$17 - $22/hr

... design-build underground construction. We are looking for a Construction and Engineering Intern to ... We also take on challenging projects with underpinning, grouting, tunneling, and unique structural ...

Schnabel

Construction and Engineering Internship

Cary, IL

$17 - $22/hr

... design-build underground construction. We are looking for a Construction and Engineering Intern to ... We also take on challenging projects with underpinning, grouting, tunneling, and unique structural ...

Actalent

Civil Engineer

Darien, IL · Hybrid

Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI) certification, or a clear plan to pass the FE ... multidisciplinary design environment with architects, MEP, structural, and construction ...

Actalent

Civil Engineer

Darien, IL · Hybrid

Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI) certification, or a clear plan to pass the FE ... multidisciplinary design environment with architects, MEP, structural, and construction ...

Actalent

Civil Engineer

Darien, IL · Hybrid

Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI) certification, or a clear plan to pass the FE ... multidisciplinary design environment with architects, MEP, structural, and construction ...

Actalent

Civil Engineer

Darien, IL · Hybrid

Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI) certification, or a clear plan to pass the FE ... multidisciplinary design environment with architects, MEP, structural, and construction ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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

Structural Design Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$19

$37

How much do structural design intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural design intern in Chicago, IL is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $22.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can a Structural Design Intern expect during their internship?

As a Structural Design Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of projects such as assisting with drafting plans, performing basic structural calculations, and supporting the preparation of design documents. Interns often collaborate closely with experienced engineers and other interns, attending team meetings and site visits to gain practical exposure. You'll likely use industry-standard software like AutoCAD or Revit and may contribute to project research, material selection, and compliance checks. This hands-on experience helps build a strong foundation for understanding real-world structural engineering challenges and workflows.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

As a civil engineer, earning $500,000 annually is possible but typically requires advanced experience, specialized skills, management roles, or working on large-scale projects. Most civil engineers earn a median salary significantly lower, with higher earnings often found in senior positions or consulting roles. Interns and entry-level engineers usually earn much less during early career stages.

What does a Structural Design Intern do?

A Structural Design Intern assists engineers and architects in designing and analyzing building structures to ensure they are safe and stable. Their responsibilities often include creating technical drawings, performing calculations, and helping with project documentation. Interns may use software tools like AutoCAD or Revit to model structures and support the team with site visits or project coordination. The position provides hands-on experience in the field of structural engineering and helps students apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects.

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

To thrive as a Structural Design Intern, you typically need a solid understanding of engineering principles, coursework in structural analysis, and progress toward a civil or structural engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or Revit), structural analysis tools (like SAP2000 or ETABS), and basic knowledge of building codes is frequently required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn are the soft skills that help interns excel in this role. These skills ensure accurate design support, effective collaboration with engineering teams, and a strong foundation for future career growth.

What can I do as a structural designer?

As a structural design intern, you assist in creating and analyzing structural systems for buildings and infrastructure, using engineering principles and design software. You may collaborate with engineers and architects, learn to interpret blueprints, and gain experience in structural analysis, drafting, and code compliance. This role helps develop skills necessary for a career in structural engineering and design.

Is AI replacing structural engineers?

AI is not replacing structural engineers but is increasingly used to assist in tasks such as analysis, design optimization, and data management. Structural design interns and engineers leverage AI tools to improve efficiency and accuracy, but human expertise remains essential for complex decision-making and oversight.

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

AspectStructural Design InternStructural Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in civil or structural engineeringLicensed professional engineer (PE) often required
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, assisting with design tasks under supervisionFull-time professional role, responsible for project design and analysis
ResponsibilitiesSupporting design calculations, drafting, researchLeading design projects, client communication, project management

The main difference between a Structural Design Intern and a Structural Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and licensure. Interns are in training, assisting with tasks, while engineers are fully responsible for project execution and hold professional licensure.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Design jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Structural Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Structural Design Intern jobs near you
Structural Project Engineer

Structural Project Engineer

Christopher B Burke Engineering Ltd

Rosemont, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

This role is designed for engineers ready to grow beyond task-based design into technical leadership, client interaction, and project ownership. You'll gain hands-on experience leading projects, mentoring junior engineers, and contributing to the growth of our Structural Group.
Our Rosemont office is centrally located within the Chicago metropolitan area and serves as the hub for our engineering services operations. Our Structural staff is focused on meeting the design and construction needs of our public and private clients throughout the area, including providing structural solutions for a wide range of projects such as transportation, bicycle and pedestrian accommodations, stormwater, parks/public spaces, and site development. Our staff's primary focus is roadway and pedestrian bridge design and rehabilitation, retaining wall and floodwall design, spillway/dam design, culvert design and design of other structures needed to support CBBEL projects. Additionally, our Structural Group regularly performs bridge and dam inspections throughout Northeast Illinois and Northwest Indiana.
The Structural Project Engineer role offers significant opportunities for growth and advancement. It's about impact, leadership, and collaboration. If you love solving problems, managing teams, and making a difference through civil and structural design, this might be the perfect next step in your career.
At CBBEL, our values guide everything we do:
Integrity - We follow through on our promises.
Excellence - We're always learning, growing, and raising the bar.
Fellowship - We support each other like a true team.
Resilience - We stay steady even when challenges arise.
Collaboration - We bring our best when we work together.
Sound like your kind of environment? Let's dive into the details.
What You'll Do
Design and Technical Leadership
  • Evaluate existing site conditions, including topographic survey and geotechnical data.
  • Prepare design plans, specifications, and related documents for the development of engineering projects.
  • Document all design work progress in writing, drawings, sketches, calculations, or tabulations for the quality assurance reviews of work performed by other staff including completion of the department QA/QC checklist.
  • Perform required calculations for the accurate and complete design of project features.
  • Develop and/or back check quantity and cost estimates for design projects.
  • Assist in the preparation of permitting documents.
  • Utilize value engineering, technical input and contributions from others throughout design process.
  • Undertake research related to new methods or materials for use in projects.
  • Assist with and eventually lead bridge and other inspections.

Project Coordination & Management
  • Coordinate with utility companies to determine if relocations are necessary.
  • Coordinate work across departments for multi-disciplinary jobs.
  • Manage sub-consultants engaged in support of design projects.
  • Rely on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals.
  • Continually develop personal knowledge of engineering and construction best practices and standards by leveraging job experience.
  • Assist in controlling project costs by managing the budget, invoicing, and reporting of projects, for both internal and client needs.

Client and Team Engagement
  • Act as liaison with client, contractors, or others directly involved with the project, assisting with required coordination and problem solving between all parties and site activities.
  • Contribute to team effort by providing guidance and technical insight to Structural Engineers.
  • Assist in the preparation of proposals for future work.
  • Expand existing network by attending networking events and fostering new relationships that can contribute to potential talent identification and business development opportunities.

What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a focus on Structural Engineering or related field.
  • At least 5 years of experience in the structural engineering field.
  • Structural Engineer (SE) licensure or ability to take the Structural Engineering Exam within 2 years of hire date, with exam preparation support from CBBEL preferred.
  • Engineer Intern Certification in the State of Illinois, Professional Engineer (PE) licensure preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Proficiency with software applications including MicroStation and Geopak, or similar tools like AutoCAD Civil 3D or OpenRoads Designer.
  • Familiarity with common structural design software (Enercalc, Risa 3D, Merlin Dash, Open Bridge Designer, AASHTOWare, etc.)
  • Familiarity with the AASHTO LRFD Bridge Design Specifications, the IDOT Bridge and Culvert Manuals and the Illinois Tollway Structure Design Manual.

Not Sure You're a Perfect Match?
  • That's okay. If you have related experience and are passionate about structural design, we encourage you to apply.
  • Bring your initiative and technical expertise. We'll bring mentorship, flexibility, and opportunities to help you grow.

Why Join CBBEL?
CBBEL is a full-service civil engineering firm with more than 250 professionals committed to delivering accurate, timely and cost-effective solutions to a wide range of engineering and environmental challenges. One out of every three team members has been with us for more than 20 years, demonstrating how our values create a place where people want to grow.
Our team serves as Municipal Engineer for 26 communities and supports hundreds of public and private sector clients with planning, design, and construction services. We boast a highly talented, experienced and educated team and are proud of our successful, long-term relationships with a wide variety of clients throughout Chicagoland. When you join us, you'll find:
  • Clear growth opportunities in structural design technical development and project management.
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, generous PTO, 401(k) matching, and discretionary bonuses.
  • A team that values your input, supports your goals, and celebrates shared success.

Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. (CBBEL) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of CBBEL to provide equal employment opportunity without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, changes in marital status, pregnancy, childbirth, or medical or common conditions related to pregnancy or childbirth, parenthood, creed, veteran's status, veteran's disability and physical or mental disability, citizenship status or unfavorable discharge from the military. CBBEL intends that all matters related to recruiting, hiring, training, compensation, benefits, promotions, transfers, terminations, layoffs and recalls, as well as all CBBEL sponsored social and recreational programs, and all treatment on the job, be free of unlawful discriminatory practices. If you need to inquire about an accommodation, or need assistance with completing the application process, please email hr@cbbel.com.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply