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Structural Design Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Design Engineer - Structural Reports To: Project Manager and/or Senior Project Engineer Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt Pay Range: $31.00 to $34.00 hourly Job Type: Full-time Supervises: Not Applicable ...

... structural design meets local, client and industry standards Analyze point cloud, survey data, maps, drawings, aerial photography, topographical and geotechnical data for project planning and ...

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Structural Design information

See California salary details

$22.7K

$101.4K

$157.9K

How much do structural design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 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 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.

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

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.

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 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 can I do as a structural design?

A professional in structural design creates and analyzes structural systems for buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure to ensure safety and stability. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and structural analysis tools to develop plans, perform calculations, and collaborate with architects and construction teams. Certification as a licensed engineer and knowledge of building codes are often required for advanced roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Design jobs in California?

The most popular types of Structural Design jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Structural Design job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,428 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Structural Design Engineer (Entry-Level)

DN LLC

El Cajon, CA • On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices.

  • Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.

  • Collaborate with construction teams and project managers to ensure design integrity from concept to completion.


Job description

Our culture is rooted in a shared vision — to help keep the world’s most precious resource safe — and in the core values that guide us in pursuing this vision and delivering on our mission to clients.

We provide the highest quality liquid storage design and construction services at the best long-term value with an unrivaled customer experience. We have built over 3,500 pre-stressed concrete liquid storage tanks over the past 90 years around the country and world, as a result we have become the leader in the industry when it comes to quality and innovation. 


Are you ready to design and build something that lasts? At DN, we don’t just construct tanks—we engineer resilience, reliability, and innovation into every project in order to protect the world’s most precious resource. We are seeking a Structural Design Engineer (Entry-Level) to join our team, bringing expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills to our industry-leading water solutions.
 
At DN, we push the boundaries of structural engineering to create durable, long-lasting concrete storage tanks for all water. Our projects span across the country, providing critical infrastructure that supports communities and businesses. We are committed to excellence, teamwork, and forward-thinking solutions.
What You'll Do:
    • Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices.
    • Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.
    • Utilize FEA modeling software to streamline designs
    • Collaborate with construction teams and project managers to ensure design integrity from concept to completion.
    • Engage in problem-solving and troubleshooting during project execution.
    • Stay ahead of industry advancements and integrate new technologies into designs.
Qualifications:
 
Required
    • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis
    • 0–2 years of structural engineering experience (additional experience considered for higher-level positions)
    • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification  
    • Understands steel and concrete behavior and applies engineering principles to real-world design challenges
    • Proficient in SAP 2000/SAFE, MS products, AutoCAD, and structural modeling software
    • Strong communication and critical thinking skills required to thrive in a team-driven environment
 
Preferred
    • Internship or co-op experience in structural engineering
    • Exposure to industrial, water, wastewater, or heavy civil infrastructure projects
    • Experience with Revit, AutoCAD, or BIM workflows
    • Exposure to ACI 350
    • Professional Engineer (PE) license or active pursuit of licensure
Total Rewards
Our Total Rewards offerings are designed to invest in our employees and their families, including:
 
    • Competitive base compensation plus eligibility for DN’s annual incentive bonus program
    • 401(k) retirement plan consisting of a 100% employer match on the first 6% of employee contributions and an additional 3% Safe Harbor company contribution
    • Medical coverage effective on date of hire, with DN covering 80%–85% of premiums depending on plan selection
    • Dental coverage effective on date of hire, with DN covering 75% of premiums
    • Voluntary vision coverage effective on date of hire
    • Flexible Spending Account options for eligible medical, dental and dependent-care expenses
    • Company-paid life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment coverage, and long-term disability coverage
    • Paid time off starting at 16 days annually, increasing with tenure, plus 9 paid holidays each year
    • Half-day Fridays between July 4 and Labor Day
    • Paid parental leave for birth mothers and spouses or committed partners
    • Employee Assistance Program available at no cost to employees and household members for work/life support
    • Tuition reimbursement 
    • Gym reimbursement
    • Employee referral incentive program 
    • Career growth, internal mobility and professional development opportunities within a stable, purpose-driven company
This is our good faith estimate of the base salary compensation range for this opportunity. Individual pay decisions will vary based upon the experience and qualifications of the applicant. This range is based on market rates and determined by considering many factors such as external market salary survey data, internal data for comparable roles, and the operational and budgetary objectives of the company.

At DN, we're building careers—not just filling positions. If this role excites you but your experience doesn't align perfectly with the listed qualifications, we still encourage you to apply. We consider candidates across multiple engineering levels and are committed to placing great people where they can make the biggest impact and continue to grow.


DN is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age, or any other federally protected class. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.


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About ēdn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing and household appliance manufacturing

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

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