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Structural Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

We're looking for a Structural Engineer to join the HMB team! Engaged professionals lies at the heart of our vision statement. That's why we strive to create a work environment that challenges and ...

We're looking for a Structural Engineer to join the HMB team! Engaged professionals lies at the heart of our vision statement. That's why we strive to create a work environment that challenges and ...

Our client, an engineering design and consulting firm, is seeking a Structural Engineer in Chattanooga, TN. This position will lead/support the design and delivery of commercial, industrial, and ...

Forensic Structural Engineer

Franklin, TN · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Company Description Our Client is a forensic and structural engineering firm. We specialize in offering engineering and forensic services for the residential and light frame commercial construction ...

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Showing results 1-20

Structural Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$45.4K

$90.2K

$138K

How much do structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer in Tennessee is $90,217.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,600.00 and $102,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior structural engineers working in specialized industries or on large-scale projects can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and profit sharing. Such compensation typically requires extensive expertise, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in major infrastructure or construction firms.

Can you make 300k a year as an engineer?

Structural engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, typically at senior levels or in specialized roles such as consulting or project management, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or working in high-cost areas. Achieving this income often requires a combination of expertise, leadership skills, and a strong professional reputation. Entry-level or mid-career salaries are generally lower, but top earners in the field can reach or exceed this threshold.

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 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) tools, and materials knowledge to develop plans, perform stress tests, and collaborate with architects and construction teams throughout the project lifecycle.

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.

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

Structural engineers can potentially earn $500,000 annually, but such high salaries are typically achieved through senior positions, specialized expertise, or working in high-cost areas with significant experience and advanced certifications. Most civil and structural engineers earn lower base salaries, with top earners often supplementing income through consulting or leadership roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,217 per year, or $43.4 per hour.
Structural Engineer (TN)

Full-time

Posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Spectra Tech, Inc. is hiring for a Structural Engineer in Oak Ridge, TN. APPLY TODAY!Position Overview

As a Structural Engineer, the candidate will be responsible for developing high-quality, detailed design packages and providing engineering procurement and field technical support to implement those designs. The role also includes providing technical expertise for troubleshooting and performing technical assessments of plant facilities.

Design responsibilities involve preparing conceptual engineering deliverables such as cost-estimating bills of material, man-hour estimates, statements of work, design criteria, and detailed design engineering deliverables. The candidate must work effectively and cooperatively as a member of an integrated project team or serve as a technical lead for multi-discipline tasks. The position routinely provides input to system engineers and other plant customers.

The Structural Engineer will regularly perform walkdowns in existing plant facilities to generate design documents and provide field support to craft personnel.


Technical Responsibilities

This position requires broad technical expertise and the application of engineering principles, theories, and concepts within the field of Structural Engineering. The Structural Engineer will develop self-performed technical solutions to a wide range of complex problems using established engineering practices, codes, and standards.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

  • Building evaluations and facility modifications
  • Seismic analyses and rehabilitation
  • Oversight of outside engineering firms
  • Machine and equipment installations

The candidate must be proficient in:

  • Developing structural drawings (plans, sections, and details)
  • Working with multiple materials of construction, including concrete, steel, masonry, cold-formed steel, and timber
  • Performing structural calculations and equipment anchorage design
  • Preparing technical reports
  • Drafting or overseeing drafting efforts
  • Preparing construction specifications, generally in the form of general notes on drawings

Familiarity with consensus design codes is required. CAD drafting experience is not required but is preferred, along with 3D modeling experience. Structural modeling experience using STAAD.Pro is also preferred.


Project Engineering & Leadership Responsibilities

The candidate must be able to plan, self-perform, and/or direct all engineering design team activities on assigned projects. These activities include, but are not limited to:

  • Development of detailed project scope
  • Establishing design timelines, functions, and requirements
  • Developing design basis and design criteria
  • Creating and tracking design schedules
  • Managing project engineering budgets
  • Performing calculations and technical research
  • Conducting design reviews
  • Coordinating inter-disciplinary design efforts
  • Managing design approvals and design change control
  • Preparing specifications
  • Reviewing and approving contractor technical and material submittals
  • Performing field verification to ensure construction compliance with design

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited institution
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience, with emphasis in Structural Engineering
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred
  • Q Clearance preferred

Additional Requirements
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to interface effectively with clients, production and support organizations, management, and hourly personnel
  • Willingness to work in a production environment

At Spectra Tech, Inc., our recruitment team is powered by real people in real time-personally reviewing every application with care and integrity. We take pride in identifying and recruiting top-tier talent while maintaining full alignment with federal regulations, EEOC standards, and fair hiring practices that reflect our commitment to excellence and equity

Spectra Tech, Inc. is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. It is the policy of the Company to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information. We are also an E-verify employer.

Employment Type: Full-Time Employee