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Structural Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Lionakis

Structural Designer I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

As a Structural Designer, you will... * Provide structural analysis, calculations, and design support as assigned from sketches, verbal, or written instructions. * Assist with the production of ...

Lionakis

Structural Designer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$81K - $100K/yr

As a Structural Designer, you will... * Provide structural analysis, calculations, and design support as assigned from sketches, verbal, or written instructions. * Assist with the production of ...

gnc

Senior Structural Designer Are you ready to join an award-winning team? Great Northern Instore recently took home 6 Outstanding Merchandising Achievement (OMA) Awards, including the prestigious ...

gnc

Senior Structural Designer Are you ready to join an award-winning team? Great Northern Instore recently took home 6 Outstanding Merchandising Achievement (OMA) Awards, including the prestigious ...

gnc

Senior Structural Designer Are you ready to join an award-winning team? Great Northern Instore recently took home 6 Outstanding Merchandising Achievement (OMA) Awards, including the prestigious ...

Lionakis

Structural Designer I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

As a Structural Designer, you will... * Provide structural analysis, calculations, and design support as assigned from sketches, verbal, or written instructions. * Assist with the production of ...

Lionakis

Structural Designer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$81K - $100K/yr

As a Structural Designer, you will... * Provide structural analysis, calculations, and design support as assigned from sketches, verbal, or written instructions. * Assist with the production of ...

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All JobsStructural Designer JobsStructural Designer Jobs in California

Structural Designer information

See California salary details

$20

$41

$64

How much do structural designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural designer in California is $41.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.82 and $51.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Structural Designer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectStructural DesignerStructural Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, often with certification or licensing depending on regionRequires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and licensure (e.g., PE license)
Work EnvironmentDesign-focused, often working with CAD software, collaborating with engineers and architectsDesign and analysis, overseeing structural integrity, and ensuring code compliance
Industry UsageCommon in architectural firms, design consultancies, and construction planningFound in engineering firms, consulting agencies, and construction companies

While both roles involve structural design, Structural Designers focus more on creating detailed drawings and plans, whereas Structural Engineers perform analysis, calculations, and ensure safety standards are met. The roles often overlap, but engineers typically hold licensure and have broader responsibilities in structural safety and compliance.

Is AI replacing structural engineers?

AI is increasingly used to assist structural designers by automating tasks such as analysis, modeling, and optimization. However, the role of a structural engineer remains essential for interpreting results, ensuring safety, and making complex design decisions that require human judgment and expertise. AI tools complement rather than replace the critical thinking and creativity of professionals in the field.

Is structural design a good career?

Structural design is a viable career that involves creating and analyzing structural systems for buildings and infrastructure, requiring skills in engineering, mathematics, and computer-aided design (CAD). It offers opportunities in construction, consulting, and engineering firms, often requiring licensure or certification for advanced roles. The field provides steady employment prospects and the chance to work on impactful projects, with a typical work environment in offices and construction sites.

What does a structural designer do?

A structural designer develops and analyzes structural systems for buildings and infrastructure, ensuring they are safe, functional, and compliant with codes. They use engineering principles, CAD software, and structural analysis tools to create detailed plans and specifications for construction. Strong knowledge of materials, load calculations, and building codes is essential in this role.

What are some common challenges structural designers face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Structural designers often collaborate closely with architects, civil engineers, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) professionals. A common challenge is coordinating design changes and ensuring that structural solutions align with evolving architectural concepts and system requirements. Effective communication and proficiency with design software are essential for integrating feedback and maintaining project timelines. Adapting to tight deadlines and balancing multiple priorities are also typical aspects of the role, especially when working on large or complex projects.

What are structural designers?

Structural designers are professionals who create the plans and specifications for buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure they are safe, stable, and capable of withstanding various forces. They work closely with architects and engineers to design the framework and select appropriate materials for construction projects. Structural designers use specialized software and their knowledge of engineering principles to analyze loads, stresses, and potential weaknesses, ensuring the integrity of the final structure.

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

As a structural designer, which is a specialized civil engineering role, earning $500,000 annually is uncommon and typically requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and work in high-paying industries or senior leadership positions. Most civil engineers and structural designers earn significantly less, with top earners reaching high six-figure salaries in certain regions or firms. Salary potential depends on factors such as location, project complexity, and years of experience.

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, proficiency in drafting, and typically a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software, as well as knowledge of building codes, is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills help set top performers apart. These competencies are crucial for producing safe, efficient, and code-compliant designs that meet client and regulatory requirements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Designer jobs in California? The most popular types of Structural Designer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Structural Designer jobs in California? For Structural Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Structural Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Structural Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Structural Designer jobs in CA? For Structural Designer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Structural Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,497 per year, or $41.1 per hour.
Structural Designer

Structural Designer

Blower Dempsay Corporation

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

$75K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Description:

About Us

Based in the heart of Orange County, Blower-Dempsay Corp. is a premier, family-owned for 54 years, manufacturer of custom corrugated packaging and high-impact retail displays. We pride ourselves on innovation, sustainability, and quality. We are looking for a talented Structural Designer to join our fast-paced design and engineering team to help bring our clients’ visions to life.


Role Overview

As a Structural Designer, you will conceptualize, design, and develop corrugated packaging solutions and retail displays. You will bridge the gap between creative design and manufacturing by producing functional, cost-effective, and eye-catching structural concepts that can withstand the rigors of transit and retail environments.


Key Responsibilities

  • Design & Concepting: Create innovative 2D and 3D designs for corrugated boxes, POP (Point of Purchase) displays, and retail packaging.
  • Prototyping: Utilize CAD software, digital printers and sample-making tables to cut, fold, and assemble physical prototypes for client presentations and testing.
  • Structural Integrity: Ensure all designs are structurally sound, optimizing for weight, material strength, and cost-efficiency.
  • Die-line Creation: Develop accurate die-lines and production-ready mechanical files for our manufacturing and prepress teams.
  • Client Collaboration: Work closely with the sales team and clients to understand their needs, budget, and brand requirements.

Print & Production Prep: Collaborate seamlessly with the graphic design and production teams to ensure structural designs align perfectly with artwork and printing processes.

Requirements:

Qualifications & Skills

  • Experience: Minimum 2-5 years of experience in structural design, specifically within the corrugated packaging, folding carton, or POP display industry.
  • Software Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of CAD (Esko ArtiosCAD) software specialized for packaging. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator), Kongsberg or Zund tables, Topps or Cape and 3D rendering software is highly preferred.
  • Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of corrugated flutes (B, C, E, and B/C along with various carton board grades), manufacturing limitations, and assembly processes.
  • Problem Solving: A creative mindset coupled with the ability to troubleshoot logistical and physical design challenges.
  • Communication: Strong interpersonal skills to present designs to clients and collaborate with cross-functional manufacturing teams.

Physical Requirements

  • Regularly required to sit in an office environment and operate a computer. Regularly required to sit, bend, walk, reach. At times, may be required to lift and/or move up to 30 pounds.

Why Join Blower-Dempsay?

  • Competitive Salary: Commensurate with experience ($75,000 - $105,000 annually).
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Health, dental, vision insurance options and 401K.
  • Growth Opportunities: Professional development within a well-established and expanding Southern California packaging leader.
  • Innovative Culture: A hands-on, collaborative environment where your creative solutions are built and shipped to major retailers.

How to Apply

Are you ready to join BDC? Please submit your resume and a digital portfolio showcasing your best structural designs (including physical mock-ups, die-lines, and retail displays) when applying online or submit to HR@blowerdempsay.com with the subject line "Structural Designer Application - [Your Name]."

Apply