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Structural Engineer Government Jobs in Washington

Midlevel Ship Structural Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance ... Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work ...

Showing results 41-60

Structural Engineer Government information

See Washington salary details

$56.6K

$112.6K

$172.2K

How much do structural engineer government jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer government in Washington is $112,580.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $128,000.00 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 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 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.

Infographic showing various Structural Engineer Government job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,580 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Staff Structural Engineer - Aviation & Federal (Mid-Atlantic Region)

Burns & McDonnell

Arlington, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 80 rated construction


Job description

The Staff Structural Engineer will work on project teams to create world-class designs for new projects, alterations, and redevelopments across a variety of government and military facilities. The Staff Structural Engineer will work with the project team throughout the design and construction process, adapting structural plans according to budget constraints, design factors, or client needs.

  • Perform structural design of projects from the conceptual phase through design completion.
  • Modify and review production drawings for a variety of projects, including, but not limited to, governmental and military facilities.
  • Design structural components for project needs and requirements that are set forth by the project managers.
  • Apply strong knowledge of commonly used structural engineering/design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures within the structural engineering services industry.
  • Research and compile project-related data as required by the project managers.
  • Update drawings provided by senior engineers to verify corrections are made within multiple CAD-related software.
  • Compile information for client presentations, shop drawing review, and contract administration for the design of governmental and military facilities.
  • Perform field inspections, measurements, or calculations for public and private clients.
  • Perform other duties as assigned and comply with all policies and standards.
  • Bachelor of Science in Structural or related Engineering Technology from an ABET-accredited program, successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, AND 3 years of structural engineering experience.
  • Master of Science degree in Structural Engineering (Preferred).
  • Strong knowledge and proficiency in standard engineering techniques, procedures, and concepts.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment; demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite, structural analysis programs (e.g., RISA 3D, ETABS, SAFE) and BIM/CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, and Tekla).
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • Be able to obtain the credentials required for unescorted access to federal facilities, including eligibility for security clearance.
  • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) Certification (Required).
  • Professional Engineering (PE) Certification (Preferred).

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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