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Structural Engineer Government Jobs in Portland, OR

Senior Structural Engineer

Vancouver, WA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

... Government sectors, we bring precision, insight, and purpose to every project, from targeted ... Position will be assigned as structural engineering lead for projects and will be responsible for ...

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Showing results 1-20

Structural Engineer Government information

See Portland, OR salary details

$53K

$105.4K

$161.2K

How much do structural engineer government jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer government in Portland, OR is $105,414.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,800.00 and $119,800.00 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 are popular job titles related to Structural Engineer Government jobs in Portland, OR? For Structural Engineer Government jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Engineer Government jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer Government jobs in Portland, OR are:
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer Government job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $105,414 per year, or $50.7 per hour.

Staff Structural Engineer (Vancouver)

Burns & McDonnell

Vancouver, WA

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd 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 on a variety of projects including power, process, corporate, healthcare, pipeline airports, institutional, industrial, manufacturing, 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: power plants, process facilities, industrial facilities, healthcare facilities, airports, educational institutions, commercial, and governmental and military facilities.
  • Design structural components for project needs and requirements that are set forth by the project managers.
  • Applies 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.
  • Compiles information for client presentations, shop drawing review, and contract administration for the design of power, process, pipeline, industrial, healthcare, airports, educational institutions, commercial, and governmental and military facilities.
  • Performs field inspections, measurements or calculations for public and private clients.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Structural Engineering or related degree from an ABET accredited program and 3 years of structural engineering experience required.
  • Or Bachelor's Degree in Structural Engineering or related Engineering Technology from an ABET accredited program, successful completion of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, and 3 years of structural engineering experience required.
  • Master's Degree in Structural Engineering and 2 years of structural engineering experience required.
  • Strong knowledge in standard engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment and demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Proficient in standard engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Strong computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Strong computer skills include structural analysis programs (e.g., RISA 3D), AutoCAD, ETABS, SAFE and BIM (e.g., Revit and Tekla).
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills.
  • Engineers in Training-EIT 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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