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Structural Engineer Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Structural Engineer Intern information

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How much do structural engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural engineer intern in Chicago, IL is $20.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.68 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Structural Engineer Intern vs Civil Engineering Intern?

AspectStructural Engineer InternCivil Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing a bachelor's or master's in structural or civil engineering; some internships require EIT/FE exam eligibilitySimilar educational background; often pursuing civil engineering degrees; EIT/FE exam eligibility beneficial
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and reviewing structural components; working on building frameworks and infrastructureBroader civil projects including transportation, water resources, and site development
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, architecture firmsEngineering firms, government agencies, construction companies

Both roles involve engineering fundamentals and internships in related fields. A Structural Engineer Intern focuses specifically on structural design and analysis, while a Civil Engineering Intern covers a wider range of civil projects. The choice depends on your career focus within civil engineering.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as a Structural Engineer Intern?

As a Structural Engineer Intern, you will typically assist with the design, analysis, and review of structural components for buildings, bridges, or other infrastructure projects. Your daily tasks may include preparing drawings using CAD software, running basic calculations, conducting site visits with experienced engineers, and helping to ensure compliance with safety codes and regulations. You'll often collaborate closely with senior engineers and other interns, gaining exposure to multiple project phases and disciplines. This hands-on experience is valuable for building your technical skills and understanding real-world engineering workflows.

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

To thrive as a Structural Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, often supported by progress toward a civil or structural engineering degree. Familiarity with technical tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software, as well as knowledge of building codes and standards, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication help interns collaborate with team members and convey complex ideas clearly. These skills and qualities are important for ensuring safety, accuracy, and successful project outcomes in structural engineering roles.

What does a Structural Engineer Intern do?

A Structural Engineer Intern assists experienced engineers in designing, analyzing, and inspecting structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Their responsibilities often include creating computer-aided design (CAD) drawings, performing calculations, preparing reports, and attending site visits. Interns gain hands-on experience with engineering software and learn about building codes, construction materials, and project management, all under the supervision of licensed engineers. This role provides valuable insight into the daily tasks and challenges of structural engineering and helps interns develop practical skills for their future careers.

What do structural engineer interns do?

Structural engineer interns assist in analyzing and designing building structures under the supervision of licensed engineers. They may perform calculations, prepare drawings, and review project plans using engineering software, gaining practical experience in structural analysis and construction processes.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

There is no age limit for a structural engineer intern position; internships are often designed for students or early-career individuals. Being 22 is common for interns, especially those pursuing or recently completed relevant education or certifications in engineering. Age should not be a barrier if you meet the educational or skill requirements for the internship.

Is $20 an hour good for an internship?

For a Structural Engineer Intern, $20 an hour is generally considered competitive for entry-level internships, especially if it includes opportunities to gain experience with engineering software like AutoCAD or Revit. However, pay rates can vary based on location, company size, and industry standards, so comparing with local internship averages is advisable.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

As a structural engineer intern, earning $500,000 is unlikely, as internships typically offer lower compensation. Experienced civil or structural engineers with advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles in large projects can reach high salaries, but such earnings are generally achieved after several years of experience and professional development. High salaries in civil engineering are often associated with senior positions, specialized expertise, or working in high-cost regions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer Intern jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Structural Engineer Intern jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Structural Engineer Intern job openings:
Graduate Enclosure Consultant - Diagnostics

Graduate Enclosure Consultant - Diagnostics

Walter P Moore

Chicago, IL

$17 - $20/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities

In this position the qualified individual will investigate and determine the service life of building enclosure assemblies. The qualified individual will assess enclosure systems, and design repairs for existing enclosure systems. They will perform enclosure review to assess air infiltration, rain water control, heat transfer, and vapor transmission. They will perform building performance analysis including evaluate daylighting, solar heat gain, thermal energy transfer, and holistic integration of the enclosure with building mechanical, lighting, and plumbing systems.A sound technical background and excellent oral and written communication skills are required. A technical background in CADD and building performance modeling software is preferred.  You'll develop a strong background in building facade and roofing assemblies, understanding of building science and thermal analysis concepts as well as a knowledge of modeling building performance and sustainability.Job Responsibilities will include:

  • Assist Project Manager with project tasks.
  • Review and organize project-related documents.
  • Research building codes and industry standards.
  • Write assessment reports.
  • Perform field investigations, including non-destructive testing, travel required.
  • Performance modeling of enclosure assemblies using different software.
  • Analyze proposed repair/design options.
  • Design and draft repair drawings and details.
  • Prepare construction documents such as repair drawings and specifications.
  • Observe construction and installation of repairs/designs in the field, including quality assurance testing.
  • Prepare site visit reports and meeting minutes.
  • Interact with project clients, sub-consultants, and repair contractors.
Qualifications
  • M.S. in Architectural Engineering or Architecture in Building Science/Building Enclosures/ Historic Preservation.
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) or Architectural Intern track.
  • Interest in building enclosure design, repair, retrofit and the integrated design and delivery of high performance buildings.

Skills should include:

  • Microsoft Office (WORD, EXCEL, POWERPOINT)
  • Computer Aided Drafting/Design (AUTOCAD, REVIT, Rhino, Grasshopper)
  • Experience with building performance modeling, software preferred (ECOTECT, VASARI, ENERGYPLUS, EQUEST, DESIGNBUILDER, DIVA, IES-VE, THERM, WUFI)
  • Familiarity with exterior wall systems
  • Familiarity with roofing assemblies
  • Familiarity with building structural systems
  • Experience with working on suspended scaffolding and vertical heights

Walter P Moore is an equal employment opportunity employer, and provides equal employment opportunities (including offering competitive compensation and benefit packages) to all employees and applicants for employment. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to any characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws and encourage all to apply including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Pay Transparency Disclosure Statement:

This position has an annual salary range as stated below and is, in good faith, an estimate. The actual offered salary will be dependent on the candidate's knowledge, skills, abilities, geographic location, industry experience and internal equity. Walter P Moore reserves the right to offer more or less than the posted range based on the criteria previously stated and will do so in a manner that does not discriminate against a candidate's protected status per local, state and federal law.

$77K - $92K in San Francisco

$74 - $88K in NYC

$71K - $84K in LA & DC

$68K - $80K in Chicago

Overview

Walter P Moore is an international company of engineers, architects, innovators, and creative people who solve some of the world's most complex structural and infrastructure challenges. Providing structural, diagnostics, civil, traffic, parking, transportation, enclosure, WPM technology and construction engineering services, we design solutions that are cost- and resource-efficient, forward-thinking, and help support and shape communities worldwide. Founded in 1931 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, our 1000+ professionals work across 28 U.S. offices and 8 international locations.

Employment Type: OTHER