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Structural Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

K2 Staffing, LLC

Structural Design Engineer

Concord, CA · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

Summary Our client is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Structural Design Engineer to join their growing team in Concord, CA . This is an excellent opportunity for an entry to mid-level ...

K2 Staffing

Structural Design Engineer

Concord, CA · On-site

Summary Our client is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Structural Design Engineer to join their growing team in Concord, CA . This is an excellent opportunity for an entry to mid-level ...

Rondo Energy

Structural Design Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

Structural Design Engineer We are seeking an experienced and innovative Structural Design Engineer to join our growing team and help transform industrial heat at scale. This role offers the ...

HDR

Structural Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

In the role of Structural Design Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Assist in condition assessments of various hydraulic structures * Perform preliminary and detailed civil / structural analysis ...

HDR

Structural Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

In the role of Structural Design Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Assist in condition assessments of various hydraulic structures * Perform preliminary and detailed civil / structural analysis ...

HDR

Structural Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

In the role of Structural Design Engineer, we'll count on you to: * Assist in condition assessments of various hydraulic structures * Perform preliminary and detailed civil / structural analysis ...

Cybercoders

Structural Design Engineer

Antioch, CA

Structural Design Engineer Structural Design Engineer Join one of the nation's leading structural engineering firms, known for delivering award-winning projects that have earned national recognition.

Rondo Energy

Structural Design Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

Structural Design Engineer We areseekingan experienced and innovative Structural Design Engineer to join our growing team and help transform industrial heat at scale. This role offers the opportunity ...

Cybercoders

Structural Design Engineer

Antioch, CA

Structural Design Engineer Structural Design Engineer Join one of the nation's leading structural engineering firms, known for delivering award-winning projects that have earned national recognition.

DN LLC

Structural Design Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices. * Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.

DN LLC

Structural Design Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices. * Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.

Nucor

Structural Design Engineer

Lathrop, CA · On-site

$84K - $103K/yr

As a Structural Design Engineer , you'll play a crucial role in the design process, ensuring that each project meets our high standards of quality and performance. Basic Job Functions: In this role ...

DN Tanks LLC

Structural Design Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices. * Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.

DN LLC

Structural Design Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices. * Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.

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All JobsStructural Design JobsStructural Design Jobs in California

Structural Design information

See California salary details

$22.7K

$101.4K

$157.9K

How much do structural design jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural design in California is $101,428.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $130,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by structural design professionals when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Structural design professionals often work closely with architects, civil engineers, and construction teams, which can present challenges such as aligning design intent with practical construction constraints and meeting various stakeholders' requirements. Coordinating schedules, integrating feedback from different disciplines, and ensuring compliance with building codes are also frequent hurdles. Successful collaboration requires strong communication skills, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving to ensure that all elements of the project are cohesive and safe.

What is structural design?

Structural design is the process of creating safe, stable, and efficient frameworks for buildings, bridges, and other structures. It involves analyzing loads, selecting appropriate materials, and ensuring that a structure can withstand environmental forces like wind, earthquakes, and weight. Structural designers use engineering principles and computer-aided design tools to develop plans that meet safety codes and client requirements. This field plays a crucial role in making sure that structures are both functional and durable.

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

Structural engineers, a specialized role within civil engineering, can potentially earn $500,000 annually with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership positions such as project managers or firm partners. Such high salaries are typically found in senior roles, large firms, or in high-cost-of-living areas, often involving complex projects and specialized skills. Entry-level or mid-career salaries generally range lower, with significant variation based on location, industry, and individual qualifications.

Is structural design a good career?

Structural design is a stable and well-paying engineering field that involves creating safe and efficient structures such as buildings and bridges. It requires strong technical skills, knowledge of materials and codes, and proficiency with design software like AutoCAD or Revit. The profession offers opportunities for advancement and typically requires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and relevant licensure.

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

To thrive as a Structural Designer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant degree and knowledge of building codes. Proficiency in CAD software, structural analysis tools like SAP2000 or ETABS, and familiarity with BIM systems are essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top performers apart in this field. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and innovative structural designs that meet project requirements and regulatory standards.

How much do structural designers make in the US?

Structural designers in the US typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior professionals or those with specialized skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $110,000 per year.

What can I do as a structural designer?

A structural designer creates and analyzes structural systems for buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure, ensuring safety and stability. They use engineering principles, design software, and building codes to develop plans and specifications for construction projects.

What is the difference between Structural Design vs Civil Engineering?

AspectStructural DesignCivil Engineering
CredentialsEngineering degree, structural engineering licenseEngineering degree, civil engineering license
Work EnvironmentDesigning frameworks for buildings, bridges, and infrastructureBroader infrastructure projects, site development, transportation
Industry UsageSpecialized within construction and architecture firmsWider industry including transportation, urban planning

Structural Design focuses specifically on creating safe, efficient frameworks for buildings and structures, requiring specialized engineering credentials. Civil Engineering covers a broader range of infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and water systems. While both roles require engineering licenses and often work within the construction industry, Structural Design is more specialized in structural frameworks, whereas Civil Engineering encompasses a wider scope of infrastructure development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Design jobs in California? The most popular types of Structural Design jobs in California are:
Structural Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Design job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,428 per year, or $48.8 per hour.
Engineer Structural Design/Principal Structural Design

Engineer Structural Design/Principal Structural Design

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$93K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 348 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 529 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: YesCLEARANCE TYPE: SecretTRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescriptionAt Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.

Please note that this opportunity is contingent on program funding. Start dates are determined after funding confirmation.

Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has an opening for an Engineer Structural Design / Sr. Principal Engineer Structural Design. The position is based in Oklahoma City, OK; Palmdale, CA; or Whiteman AFB, MO.

Essential Functions:

  • Work in a high-paced team environment to support program goals and schedule.
  • Develop solutions to difficult problems that are thorough, imaginative, practical, and consistent with program objectives.
  • Provide MRB dispositions for primary and secondary structures.
  • Evaluate as-built products for conformity to standards, procedures, and specifications.
  • Clearly communicate and coordinate with other disciplines during the development of design solutions.
  • Present and explain structural issues and solutions to internal management and customer representatives concisely.
  • Utilize computer-aided design (CAD) equipment and technical applications such as CATIA and Teamcenter.
  • Develop layouts, sketches, and blueprints and investigate design factors such as damage tolerance, durability, design allowables, and structural modeling.
  • Identify design errors or deficiencies and make recommendations for changes.

This position can be filled at the Engineer Structural Design OR Sr. Principal Engineer Structural Design level, depending upon the qualifications below.

Basic Qualifications:

  • Engineer level: Bachelors Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) and a minimum of 2 years of experience in Aerospace structural design OR an MS degree in STEM with 1 year of related experience
  • Principal Engineer level: Bachelors Degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) and a minimum of 5 years of experience in Aerospace structural design OR an MS degree in STEM with 3 years of related experience OR a PhD in STEM and 1 year of related experience
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a DOD Secret or Top Secret Clearance as well as Program Special Access within a reasonable period of time, as determined by the company to meet its business needs.
  • Experience in the design of bonded composite primary and secondary aircraft structures.
  • High level of proficiency using Unigraphics Nx or CATIA V5 in the development of aircraft structures and components

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Active in-scope Secret or Top Secret clearance (last investigation within 5 years).
  • Experience working on Special Access Programs.
  • Experience working on military aircraft.
  • 5 years or more aerospace structural design experience using CATIA.
Primary Level Salary Range: $75,100.00 - $137,600.00Secondary Level Salary Range: $93,300.00 - $171,000.00The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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