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Structural Engineer Jobs in Brainerd, MN (NOW HIRING)

Sandman Structural Engineers

BIM Technician

Baxter, MN · On-site

$23 - $37/hr

As a BIM Technician at Sandman Structural Engineers, you are responsible for the preparation of drawings for assigned projects to help enable the success of our clients and our people. Core ...

Sehinc

Lead Civil Municipal Engineer

Brainerd, MN

$110K - $135K/yr

You belong at SEH SEH is currenting searching for a Lead Civil Municipal Engineer to join our talented Civil team! Why our employee-owners love SEH: * "I was on vacation last week and had zero ...

All JobsStructural Engineer JobsStructural Engineer Jobs in Brainerd, MN

Structural Engineer information

See Brainerd, MN salary details

$48.9K

$97.3K

$148.7K

How much do structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer in Brainerd, MN is $97,255.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $110,600.00 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.
More about Structural Engineer jobs
What cities near Brainerd, MN are hiring for Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Brainerd, MN with the most Structural Engineer job openings:
Structural Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer job openings in Brainerd, MN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 17% Internship, and 83% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,255 per year, or $46.8 per hour.
Structural Engineering Intern

Structural Engineering Intern

Sandman Structural Engineers

Baxter, MN • On-site

$24 - $27/hr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Sandman Structural Engineers is seeking a Structural Engineering Intern. In this position you will gain hands on experience in structural analysis, design and project coordination.


Technical Responsibilities:

  • Acquires rudimentary knowledge and develops basic skills 
  • Applies prescribed techniques and procedures in accordance with SSE established criteria to perform assigned tasks 
  • Performs routine technical work which does not require significant previous experience 
  • Acquires an understanding of professional and ethical responsibilities 
  • Collects data and gathers information or documents 
  • Performs standard computations or analysis 
  • Prepares drawings and visual aids 
  • Observes construction activities 
  • Works in a manner to ensure personal safety and that of fellow employees by following company health and safety guidelines and policies 
Preferred Skills
  • Completed a fundamental of structural analysis course which includes computer application  
  • Completed a strength of materials course with statics and dynamics application 
  • Completed fundamentals of steel design course and/or fundamentals of concrete design course preferred 
  • Experience or training with Revit and/or AutoCAD preferred 
  • Professional Activities: Member of professional student organization 
  • Community Activities:Involved in local outreach activities, university engineering clubs, etc. 
Required Skills
  • Minimum of 2 years completed towards earning an ABET/EAC accredited bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or similar degree 
  • Regular, reliable attendance 
  • Excellent verbal and written communication. Ability to communicate and interact effectively and professionally with supervisors, employees, and others individually or in a team environment. 
  • Perform work safely and effectively 
  • Organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required 
  • Must be physically able to conduct field inspections and testing as assigned 
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and have a satisfactory driving record 
  • Reside near one of our office locations: Moorhead, Maple Grove, or Brainerd Minnesota 

Compensation: The starting hourly compensation for this role is $24-$27. A variety of factors are considered when determining an offer including, but not limited to, market data, geographic location, experience, education, and specialized skills.


Environmental Conditions: 

Office environment; field environment; construction site environment; exposure to noise, dust, grease, smoke, fumes, gases, heat, cold, and inclement weather conditions when conducting field inspections and investigations. 

Physical Requirements(with or without reasonable accommodation): 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Position may require extended periods of sitting, standing, bending, and/or walking. Must be able to frequently move about and position self appropriately to complete role responsibilities.Position may require frequent lifting and/or carrying up to 20 pounds with occasional lifting and/or carrying of up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. 

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