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Structural Designer information

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$20

$41

$64

How much do structural designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 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.
Senior Structural Designer 2 - Grid

Senior Structural Designer 2 - Grid

Sargent & Lundy

Santa Ana, CA • Hybrid

$85K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 442 rated engineering

Job description

This position allows for a hybrid work schedule with a mix of work spent in office and working remote from home. 

  • As a member of the substation design team, this position will offer you the opportunity to work with multi-disciplined engineering and design project teams in developing both AIS and GIS Substation Electrical physical layout drawings in both 2D and 3D model.
  • Challenging assignments that include the design of substation structures and foundations, and investigating, trouble-shooting, and solving a wide variety of structural design issues.
  • Utilize 3D modeling software tools to generate electrical design schematics.
  • Participate in the coordination of detailed design phases for all aspects of an integrated substation design model.
  • Provide support to other designers and project team members in order to ensure a complete and timely design.
  • Independently and as a member of a design team, plan and execute structural design deliverables.
  • There may be the opportunity to accompany and assist senior designers and engineers in field walkdowns and data gathering at client facilities.
  • Provide guidance to others in the use of drafting tools, and also as a mentor in the development of less experienced drafters and designers.

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

Essential skills and experience:

  • An Associate's Degree in drafting, or a high school diploma and 1 or more years drafting course work or equivalent technical experience.
  • Twelve (12) or more years of detailed structural design experience in the development of foundation plans, foundation details,  structure details.
  • Basic substation physical design knowledge.
  • Proficiency using MicroStation or AutoCAD with design software tools in executing 3D plant layout models.
  • Experience in the review of structural drawings involving electrical substation equipment outlines and interface points.
  • Ability to interface with engineering and design teams of other disciplines in the substation design process.

Valued but not required experience:

  • Proficiency with MicroStation, Bentley Descartes, AutoCad, Raster Design, Inventor, SDS and or Bentley Substation.

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements

$85,679 - $130,899
Sargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

Social media

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