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Structural Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Structural Engineer Your Role at BSI A key member of our Civil/Structural team, the Structural Engineer possesses strong knowledge of steel, concrete, masonry, and wood design in industrial settings.

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$84K - $131K/yr

As a Structural Engineer/Structural Designer at DLR Group you will be responsible for the design of structural systems from schematics through construction administration on a wide range of new and ...

Structural Engineer

Springfield, IL · On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

POSITION DESCRIPTION We are currently seeking a full-time Structural Engineer to join our team. Our team works with private companies on commercial projects, as well as with State and Local ...

Structural Engineer Structural Engineer Location: Rockford, IL Salary: $100,000 - $150,000 (Based on Experience) Position Overview We are seeking a seasoned Sr. Structural Engineer to lead the design ...

Structural Engineer

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

Job Title - Structural Project Engineer | Chicago, IL | Mid-Level About the Role A leading architecture, engineering, and construction firm is seeking a Structural Project Engineer to join its ...

Entry‑Level Structural Engineer Launch your structural engineering career with the largest, #1 nuclear engineering firm in the United States and work on projects that truly matter. This is a rare ...

Structural Engineer

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$100K - $120K/yr

Job Title - Structural Project Engineer | Chicago, IL | Mid-Level About the Role A leading architecture, engineering, and construction firm is seeking a Structural Project Engineer to join its ...

Seeking a Staff Structural Engineer role to contribute to the design, analysis, and documentation of new construction, renovation, and adaptive reuse projects. Roles & Responsibilities: * Assist with ...

Structural Engineer ID: 8542 Department: Engineering Location: Chicago, IL Description Dashiell, an operating unit of Quanta Services (trading as PWR), is a leading national provider of technical and ...

Structural Engineer

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$100K - $120K/yr

Job Title - Structural Project Engineer | Chicago, IL | Mid-Level About the Role A leading architecture, engineering, and construction firm is seeking a Structural Project Engineer to join its ...

The Structural Engineer is an integral person in helping our customer's vision for a conventional, semi- or fully automated storage solution from stow US come to life safely. The core ...

Showing results 21-40

Structural Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$48.5K

$96.3K

$147.3K

How much do structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer in Illinois is $96,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 is a structural engineer?

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 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 Illinois? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $96,321 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Principal Structural Engineer

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Lombard, IL • On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Valdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking an experienced Principal Structural Engineer to provide technical leadership on complex industrial, power, manufacturing, and process facility projects. This role is ideal for an accomplished structural engineering professional who enjoys solving challenging engineering problems, mentoring high-performing teams, and partnering directly with clients to deliver innovative, practical solutions.
As a Principal Structural Engineer, you'll play a key role in project execution, business development, technical excellence, and the continued growth of our Structural Engineering practice.
What You Will Do
Technical Leadership
  • Lead the structural engineering design of complex industrial, manufacturing, process, and power generation facilities.
  • Independently develop structural designs from concept through construction.
  • Design steel, reinforced concrete, masonry, and foundation systems for a wide variety of industrial applications.
  • Design shallow and deep foundations, underground concrete vaults, tunnels, pipe supports, pipe racks, equipment foundations, access platforms, support towers, stair systems, ladders, and structural framing systems.
  • Develop innovative structural solutions for complex field conditions and retrofit projects.
  • Perform structural evaluations and condition assessments of existing facilities.
Engineering & Analysis
  • Perform advanced structural analysis using industry-standard software including RISA-3D and STAAD.Pro.
  • Interpret and apply domestic and international structural design codes and standards.
  • Review structural calculations, construction documents, specifications, and design deliverables.
  • Review reinforcement detailing, structural steel fabrication drawings, and vendor submittals.
Project Leadership
  • Serve as the Structural Discipline Lead on multidisciplinary engineering projects.
  • Develop engineering budgets, schedules, staffing plans, and work-hour estimates.
  • Manage project resources while maintaining quality, schedule, and budget expectations.
  • Coordinate closely with civil, mechanical, electrical, piping, and process engineering teams.
Client & Business Development
  • Collaborate with clients during project planning, scope development, and proposal preparation.
  • Build and maintain trusted client relationships through technical excellence and responsive communication.
  • Support business development initiatives and strategic growth opportunities.
Mentorship
  • Mentor and develop junior engineers and designers.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performance engineering culture focused on continuous improvement and technical excellence.
Field Support
  • Perform site visits to verify existing conditions and support construction activities.
  • Assist with resolving field engineering challenges and constructability issues.
  • Travel for short- and long-term field assignments as project needs require.

What You'll Bring
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Architecture (Master's preferred)
  • 15+ years of structural engineering experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, process, or power generation projects
  • Professional Engineer (PE) or Structural Engineer (SE) license required
  • Demonstrated experience leading structural engineering projects and multidisciplinary teams
  • Advanced knowledge of structural steel, reinforced concrete, foundations, and industrial structures
  • Strong proficiency with RISA-3D, STAAD.Pro, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office
  • Experience preparing structural assessment and evaluation reports
  • Strong understanding of engineering codes, standards, and industry best practices
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and client relationship skills
  • Exceptional organizational and project management abilities
  • Authorization to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship

Why Valdes?
At Valdes Architecture & Engineering, you'll join a multidisciplinary team that designs the infrastructure powering industries and communities across the country.
Our engineers work on challenging projects in:
  • Industrial Manufacturing
  • Power Generation & Energy
  • Chemical Processing
  • Oil & Gas
  • Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals
  • Utilities
  • Infrastructure & Heavy Industrial Facilities

We believe great engineering starts with great people. Our collaborative culture empowers employees to innovate, lead, mentor, and continue growing throughout their careers.
Why You Will Love This Role
  • Lead technically challenging, high-impact structural engineering projects
  • Collaborate with nationally recognized multidisciplinary engineering teams
  • Mentor the next generation of structural engineers
  • Influence project strategy and business growth
  • Hybrid work environment
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
  • Opportunity to shape the future of Valdes' Structural Engineering practice

$125,000 - $200,000 a year
Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
Valdes Architecture & Engineering Company is looking for bright and talented people that want to take their career to the next level. We offer many rewarding career paths to challenge and engage our employees at all phases of their careers. Our office provides a team environment, and excellent working conditions, which allow individuals to maximize their potential. Valdes Architecture & Engineering offers an outstanding benefits package including Medical, Dental, 401K plan, Company paid Long Term and Short Term Disability Insurance, Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance, Pet Insurance, a discounted gym membership and tuition reimbursement.
EEO/AAE
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.