1

Structural Engineer In Training Jobs in California

In the role of Structural Engineer in Training, we'll count on you to: * Assist in new and/or rehabilitation design of various hydraulic structures, including dams, spillways, gates, outlet works ...

Civil/Structural Engineering - 2 to 4 years for Engineer II; at least of Engineering design for Engineer III * License/Certification - Engineer-In-Training (EIT) * Computer Proficiency - MS Office ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Structural Engineer In Training information

See California salary details

$49.3K

$98.1K

$150K

How much do structural engineer in training jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer in training in California is $98,098.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Structural Engineer In Training, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, structural analysis, and design, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis tools like SAP2000 or STAAD.Pro is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with senior engineers and multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and code-compliant structural designs while building a foundation for professional growth.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Structural Engineer In Training expect during their first year on the job?

As a Structural Engineer In Training, you will typically support senior engineers in tasks such as drafting structural plans, performing basic calculations, and assisting with site inspections. You may work on a variety of projects, including residential, commercial, or infrastructure developments, which helps you build a broad foundation of experience. Your role often involves close collaboration with architects, contractors, and other engineering disciplines to ensure project requirements are met. Additionally, you'll likely participate in team meetings and may be given increasing responsibility as you demonstrate competence, setting the stage for advancement toward a licensed Professional Engineer position.

What is a Structural Engineer In Training?

A Structural Engineer In Training (EIT) is an entry-level professional who has completed an accredited engineering degree and passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. EITs work under the supervision of licensed structural engineers to gain practical experience and develop their technical skills. Their responsibilities often include assisting with the analysis and design of building structures, preparing drawings and reports, and learning building codes and standards. The EIT designation is a step toward becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in structural engineering.

What is the difference between Structural Engineer In Training vs Structural Engineer?

AspectStructural Engineer In TrainingStructural Engineer
CredentialsTypically has a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering; working towards PE licensureLicensed Professional Engineer (PE) in structural engineering
Work EnvironmentAssist in design, analysis, and project support under supervisionLead design projects, make independent decisions, and oversee teams
Industry UsageEntry-level or early career role in engineering firmsFull professional role with greater responsibilities

The main difference is that a Structural Engineer In Training is an entry-level position working towards licensure, while a Structural Engineer is a licensed professional with full responsibilities. The transition involves gaining experience, passing the PE exam, and taking on more complex projects.

What job categories do people searching Structural Engineer In Training jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer In Training jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Structural Engineer In Training jobs? Cities in California with the most Structural Engineer In Training job openings:
Structural EIT

Other

Posted 12 days ago


HDR rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 349 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we work to weave diversity, equity, and inclusion into our work and foster a sense of belonging throughout the company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

In the role of Structural Engineer in Training, we'll count on you to: 
  • Assist in new and/or rehabilitation design of various hydraulic structures, including dams, spillways, gates, outlet works, diversion structures, retaining walls, cofferdams, floodwalls, water conveyance structures, and foundations.
  • Assist in the development of design drawings, design criteria, report preparation, and quality assurance and control reviews of related designs.
  • Prepare pre-inspection planning tasks including but not limited to site walks, development of health and safety plans, rigging and rescue plans, confined space entry plans, and coordinating with health and safety.
  • Perform inspections and structural assessments of structures.
  • Assist in the preparation of written reports summarizing inspections and findings.
  • Perform other duties as needed.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree
  • Previous experience working with finite element modeling software such as SAP2000 and/or LS-DYNA
  • 0-2 years of experience in civil/structural engineering
  • Highly motivated and independent with a strong work ethic
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Ability and experience to lead the work of others, communicate and maintain proper working relationships
  • Strong interpersonal, speaking, and writing skills
  • Knowledge of computer-based design tools (such as SAP2000, MATHCAD, LPILE, AutoCAD, or equivalent)
  • Previous structural design experience (internship or full-time work experience) is a plus
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate.
  • Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, RISA, Staad, SAP, Tedds, RAM, ETABS, SAFE or similar
  • Previous structural design experience (internship or full-time work experience) is a plus
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.


What HDR employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


HDR logo

About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917