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Structural Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Structural Engineer

Oakland, CA · On-site

$103K - $159K/yr

Structural Engineer Oakland, CA or Seattle, WA - Long Beach, CA - Portland, OR - San Diego, CA Hybrid Regular, Full-time Do you want to join one of the leading engineering consulting companies ...

As a Structural Project Engineer, you'll play a key role in delivering innovative and impactful projects across a diverse range of building types. You'll address complex structural challenges and ...

You will own structural engineering for charging towers, zipping point dropboxes, foundations, and related site structures, making them safe, permitted, constructible, and ready to operate across ...

A full-service consulting firm specializing in forensic investigative services is seeking a Structural Engineer to branch out from typical design work and investigate to determine the cause of ...

We are hiring a Senior Precast Structural Engineer to lead our structural design operations and build our engineering department from the ground up. You will design precast elements, manage the ...

Wheeler & Gray is seeking a Structural Engineer with seven to ten years experience and licensure in California as a Structural Engineer. Wheeler & Gray is a well established consulting firm with ...

Wheeler & Gray is seeking a Structural Engineer with seven to ten years experience and licensure in California as a Structural Engineer. Wheeler & Gray is a well established consulting firm with ...

Civil/Structural Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$91K - $114K/yr

The Engineer will provide structural engineering consulting services involving advanced design and analysis under the supervision of a senior-level engineer. The Engineer will provide support to ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$117K - $176K/yr

Your Opportunity As a Structural Engineering Associate , your role is to work with general supervision and direction as a team member or lead on multiple projects under the guidance of a Principal ...

The Engineer will provide structural engineering consulting services involving advanced design and analysis under the supervision of a senior-level engineer. The Engineer will provide support to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Structural Engineer information

See California salary details

$49.3K

$98.1K

$150K

How much do structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer 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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What is the difference between Structural Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectStructural EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in structural or civil engineering, PE licenseRequires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, PE license
Work EnvironmentFocuses on designing and analyzing building structures, often in office and construction sitesWorks on infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and water systems, in offices and field sites
Industry UsageSpecialized within construction, architecture, and structural design firmsBroader industry scope including transportation, environmental, and urban planning

Structural engineers primarily focus on designing and analyzing building frameworks to ensure safety and stability, while civil engineers work on a wider range of infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar credentials and often collaborate, but their core responsibilities and project types differ.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as petroleum, aerospace, and software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. These roles typically require specialized knowledge, leadership responsibilities, and often involve working in high-demand industries or managerial positions.

What are some common challenges Structural Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Structural Engineers often collaborate with architects, mechanical, and electrical engineers to deliver integrated building designs. One common challenge is balancing aesthetic or functional requirements from architects with structural safety and code compliance. Effective communication and coordination are essential to resolve conflicts, manage project timelines, and ensure that structural solutions align with the broader vision of the project. Structural Engineers should be proactive in attending coordination meetings and using collaborative design tools to streamline teamwork.

What are structural engineers?

Structural engineers are specialized professionals who design, analyze, and ensure the safety of structures such as buildings, bridges, and tunnels. They work to make sure these structures can withstand various forces, such as gravity, wind, and earthquakes, while remaining safe and functional. Structural engineers use mathematics, physics, and material science to select appropriate construction materials and methods. Their expertise is essential in the planning and construction phases, as well as in inspecting existing structures for safety and compliance.

What kind of work do structural engineers do?

Structural engineers design, analyze, and oversee the construction of buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure they are safe and stable. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and materials knowledge to develop plans and solve structural problems throughout the project lifecycle.

Can you make $250,000 as an engineer?

Structural engineers can earn $250,000 or more annually, typically with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in large firms or specialized projects. High salaries are often associated with senior positions, project management, or working in high-cost-of-living areas. Achieving this level may also require expertise in complex design software and a strong professional reputation.

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

To thrive as a Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering principles, a relevant engineering degree, and often a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with structural analysis software such as SAP2000, ETABS, or AutoCAD is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set top performers apart. These competencies ensure the safety, stability, and efficiency of building projects while facilitating collaboration with architects, contractors, and clients.

What Do Structural Engineers Do?

Structural engineering is a branch of civil engineering that involves the design, construction, and repair of many different types of structures. The job of a structural engineer is to act as a consultant to architects and contractors throughout the construction project, offering expert advice on technical problems. Structural engineers are typically contracted on projects involving sports arenas, bridges, large buildings, or any other weight-bearing structure. On a day-to-day basis, a structural engineer may assist the head architect with initial layout and design of a structure, including plans for maintenance or overall remodels. They calculate loads, such as wind, snow, and earthquake forces, to determine which structural system is safest. Some structural engineers specialize in demolition and are responsible for ensuring projects are carried out safely and without damage to surrounding structures. Others specialize in oil drilling machinery, aircraft and shipbuilding vehicle design, or temporary structure builds.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,098 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Entry Level Structural Engineer

Entry Level Structural Engineer

W3Global Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

$85K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Join an experienced structural engineering team and contribute to the design and delivery of high-end residential projects. This role focuses on structural engineering for luxury custom homes and multi-family residential developments, with an emphasis on wood design. You will work closely with architects, project teams, and local jurisdictions to deliver high-quality structural engineering solutions while expanding your technical expertise and contributing to project success.

This position offers the opportunity to collaborate with senior leadership, take ownership of project components, and grow within a team-oriented engineering environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform structural engineering design and analysis for residential structures, particularly luxury custom homes and multi-family residential buildings.

  • Design and evaluate gravity and lateral systems using wood framing, as well as other materials such as steel, concrete, and masonry when required.

  • Work closely with architects, consultants, and internal engineering teams to support the technical delivery of structural engineering documents.

  • Develop and review structural calculations, drawings, and design documentation.

  • Utilize 3D structural analysis models and engineering software to interpret and validate structural data.

  • Communicate with clients, contractors, and building officials to support project approvals and permit processes.

  • Assist in preparing design development and construction documents.

  • Keep senior leadership informed on project progress, technical decisions, and design solutions.

  • Support the continuous improvement of internal engineering standards, best practices, and technical knowledge.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Structural Engineering or Civil Engineering (Master's degree preferred).

  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) required.

  • 4-7 years of structural engineering experience, preferably in residential projects.

  • Strong experience with wood structural design, especially for luxury custom residential and multi-family projects.

  • Proficiency with Revit Structural (BIM) strongly preferred.

  • Experience with structural analysis and engineering tools such as RISA 3D, ETABS, SAFE, RAM Structural Systems, Enercalc, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Excel is a plus.

  • Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills.

  • Ability to work effectively in a team-based environment while managing project responsibilities.

Additional Requirements

  • Ability to support project teams with technical documentation and structural modeling.

  • Comfortable communicating with clients, architects, and local building jurisdictions.

  • Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 10%) to support project needs.

  • This is an in-office role initially, allowing engineers to integrate with the team and project workflows. Hybrid/Flexible remote work may be an option after the 90-day introductory period, based on performance and team needs.


W3Global logo

About W3Global

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs. As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Frisco, TX, US

Year founded

2006