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Structural Engineer Government Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Structural Engineer

Williamsburg, VA

$96K - $130K/yr

Terracon is looking for a Senior Structural Engineer to help grow our Engineering Team. This ... and State Government, Private and Public Educational Institutions, Recreational and Cultural ...

Bachelor's degree in Structural Engineering or similar (Architecture, Civil Engineering ... level government representatives. * Ability to clearly express in writing technical analysis ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$92K - $125K/yr

... Government sectors, we bring precision, insight, and purpose to every project, from targeted ... The Role The Senior Structural Engineer I (PE) is a licensed professional engineer responsible for ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$92K - $125K/yr

... Government sectors, we bring precision, insight, and purpose to every project, from targeted ... The Role The Senior Structural Engineer I (PE) is a licensed professional engineer responsible for ...

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Structural Engineer Government information

See Virginia salary details

$49.6K

$98.5K

$150.7K

How much do structural engineer government jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer government in Virginia is $98,547.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,300.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Structural Engineer do in a government role?

A Structural Engineer in a government position is responsible for designing, analyzing, and ensuring the safety and integrity of public infrastructure such as bridges, buildings, and transportation facilities. They review construction plans, enforce building codes, and collaborate with other public agencies to ensure projects meet regulations and community needs. Their work helps maintain public safety and guides the development of sustainable, resilient infrastructure within cities and towns.

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

To thrive as a Structural Engineer in government, you need a strong background in civil and structural engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with structural analysis software (e.g., SAP2000, ETABS), CAD systems, and relevant building codes is essential. Strong project management, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set candidates apart in coordinating with public agencies and stakeholders. These competencies ensure the safe, compliant, and efficient design and evaluation of public infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Structural Engineer Government vs Civil Engineer?

AspectStructural Engineer GovernmentCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, PE license, specialized structural certificationsEngineering degree, PE license, broader civil engineering certifications
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, public infrastructure projects, regulatory complianceConstruction sites, urban planning, transportation, and infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageFederal, state, or local government agenciesPrivate firms, consulting companies, government projects
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

In summary, Structural Engineer Government focuses on designing and analyzing structures within government projects, requiring specialized structural credentials. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on various infrastructure projects across private and public sectors. Both roles often require similar licenses but differ in project focus and work environment.

What are some unique challenges faced by structural engineers working in government roles compared to the private sector?

Structural engineers in government roles often navigate more complex regulatory requirements and must ensure projects strictly adhere to public safety codes and standards. They frequently collaborate with various public agencies, contractors, and community stakeholders, which can add layers of coordination and communication not always present in the private sector. Additionally, government projects may have longer timelines and more rigorous documentation processes, but they offer excellent opportunities to work on impactful, large-scale infrastructure and public works projects that benefit communities.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Structural Engineer Government jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Structural Engineer Government job openings:
Senior Structural Engineer

Senior Structural Engineer

TERRACON

Williamsburg, VA

$96K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Terracon is looking for a Senior Structural Engineer to help grow our Engineering Team. This position will specialize in the design, investigation, and rehabilitation of building structures and building enclosures. This position will support our existing offices located in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia.
We provide room for growth and significant responsibilities ranging from client development to ensuring successful project delivery. We focus primarily on design and consulting, where you'll be joining a team that also works directly with our Architects, Owners, Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical engineers. For us, quality and doing what's right for our people and our clients is key. If you are up for an exciting and challenging opportunity and career, we look forward to visiting with you!
Essential Roles and Responsibilities:

  • Provide engineering and consulting services on a variety of projects including the structural design for new and existing buildings; the investigation of buildings for structural and materials failures, for condition assessments, and for analytical studies; analysis and design for the rehabilitation of existing and historic buildings; and structural design for specialty structures and preparation of structural shop drawings.
  • Work closely with a variety of clients, including Architects, Landscape Architects, Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Private and Public Company Owners, Local and State Government, Private and Public Educational Institutions, Recreational and Cultural Entities, Real Estate and Land Development, General Contractors, and Subcontractors.
  • Provide design expertise to perform and/or oversee the design and preparation of construction documents that are related to the variety of projects within this office.
  • Develop and prepare proposals for Professional Services that include a detailed scope of services, establishment of fees, and project schedule.
  • Prepare and write reports that are professional in language with a logical presentation of technical ideas and recommendations.
  • Lead multi-discipline building engineering professionals including junior to senior level staff. Coordinates departmental personnel, equipment and technical experts across the company to complete assigned projects within schedule and budget constraints.
  • Supervise and mentor junior and/or less-experienced Facilities Professionals to cross-train on structural services.
  • Be actively involved in one or more technical/professional associations.
  • Participate in Group and Office business development efforts working with existing clients to obtain additional work and developing new clients.
Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
From general practitioners to specialists, our national Facilities professionals know facility systems from curb to rooftop. As a member of our team, you'll join licensed architects and engineers delivering services for new construction and existing facilities including building enclosure consulting and testing, facility asset management, due diligence, ADA and accessibility consulting, facility condition assessments, and more. Be it one parking lot or a 100-building portfolio, we create sustainable options for our clients' buildings, assess and extend service life where applicable, increase performance, and help them maximize the value of their capital expenditures.

Preferred:

  • Experience working safely in challenging environments including crawlspaces, suspended scaffolding, vertical heights, mid- to high-rise building facades and roofs.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills including the ability to summarize observations, conclusions and work requirements in both text and drawings.
  • Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Prior experience with industry analytical and drafting tools is preferred. Revit proficiency is highly preferred.

Requirements:

  • 9+ years' experience in structural engineering, review, and assessments
  • Professional Engineer licensure (PE), transferable by comity to Virginia
  • B.S. in Civil Engineering is required. MS degree is preferred
  • Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record

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