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Structural Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Structural Designer information

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$41

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How much do structural designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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.

What is the highest salary of a structural engineer?

The highest salaries for structural engineers can exceed $150,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-cost-of-living areas. Senior-level professionals, specialized consultants, and those in managerial roles tend to earn the top salaries in the field.

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.

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 cities in California are hiring for Structural Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Structural Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Designer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,497 per year, or $41.1 per hour.

Entry Level - Structural Designer

KPFF Consulting Engineers

Irvine, CA โ€ข On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Company Description

At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For over 60 years, we have dedicated ourselves to innovative, sustainable engineering that shapes the built environment and tackles complex infrastructure challenges. Our team culture emphasizes balance, growth, and well-being, supporting each member's professional journey with flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work-life integration.

With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF's decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more at www.kpff.com.

Job Description

KPFF is looking for full-time structural engineering professionals who are self-motivated and eager to deepen their knowledge of structural engineering while gaining real-world experience.

Our engineers work in a team structure that allows frequent collaboration and connection to all layers of our organization, from interns to Principals. We foster a culture where our engineers collaborate outside of the project work through social events, educational programs and technical training. We provide numerous opportunities for professional growth, learning, and teaching. Individual accomplishments and successful projects determine your future at KPFF, and your dedication and talent will drive your career here.

This is an Exempt employment position, all overtime hours are paid at an hourly rate.

Benefits

KPFF is proud to provide our employees with benefits options that fit their unique lives, including:

  • Medical insurance options to choose from, VSP Vision Insurance, and Deltaย Dental Insurance
  • 7 paid holidays, and 2 floating holidays for you to use each year
  • 2 weeks vacation annually, with competitive seniority based accruals
  • 2 weeks of personal and sick time to care for yourself and your family membersย 
  • KPFF will contribute 3% of your base salary to your 401 (k) regardless of your contribution
  • KPFF Paid Family Leave: Provides 60% of your base salary while on an approved leave for up to 6 weeks in a rolling 12-month period
  • 40-hour work schedule, Monday through Friday
  • Flexible scheduling - core hours of collaboration are 9:30-3:30 PMย 
  • Those who earn their CA PE or SE at KPFF receive a licensing bonus in addition to testing fee reimbursement
  • Monthly Cell Phone stipend
  • Monthly Way We Work stipend for remote work and transit expenses
  • Semi-annual Bonusesย 
  • Opportunities for educational events, relationship building, and fun!ย 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Basic knowledge of engineering fundamentals
  • Excellent interpersonal communication and professional demeanor
  • Effectively work on a team with individuals of varying backgrounds and experiences
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • Solid technical skills
  • Ability to independently plan, document, organize, and engage in problem solving
  • Excellent research and information gathering skills

Salary

The pay range is $80,000 - $90,000 salary depending on education

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

  • BS in Civil Engineering (with an emphasis in Structures)
  • Transcripts must show completed courses in: Concrete,ย Steel, or Wood Design
  • No full-time work experience is required

Preferred Qualifications

  • 3.0 Cumulative GPA or above in Bachelor's coursework
  • Master's degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Structures is preferred
  • Candidates with transcripts showing completed graduate coursework in:
    • Structural Design
    • Steel or Wood Design
    • Concrete
    • Seismic
  • Previous intern or full-time experience in a Structural or Civil Engineering role is preferred
  • EIT Certification
Additional Information

Application Process

If you are interested in this position, please apply on our careers page. Resumes sent elsewhere will not be considered.
Transcripts must be provided prior to an interview. Cover letter is preferable and should address the following:

  • Describe a time when you were assigned a project or task that turned out to be really difficult.ย How did you work through it, and what was the outcome?
  • Who has most influenced you and why?

Physical Demands and Work Environment

  • Duties are performed in a normal office environment while sitting at a desk or computer table.
  • Duties require the ability to actively engage with a computer for several hours per day.
  • May occasionally need to lift items up to 15 lbs.
  • Duties require in-person attendance, Monday through Friday, during our business hours of 8 AM toย 5 PM at our office in Orange County Irvine for the training period.
  • Following a satisfactory training period a hybrid schedule of 2ย days per week in the office may beย accommodated

Our Employees

Are valued and empowered, collaborative and team oriented, innovative in their approach and passionate about their work. They are reliable, trustworthy, and open with a high level of integrity. They value diversity, are inclusive and are committed to critically thinking through problems and finding solutions.

KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.