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Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (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

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

We are seeking a Structural Engineer to support the design, analysis, and execution of industrial, oil & gas, and power generation facilities. Assignments will include the coordination and ...

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 ...

About the Role K2N Crest is seeking a motivated Structural Engineer with 3-5 years of experience with strong Revit skills. In this role, you will work on a diverse mix of projects, including ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

About the Role K2N Crest is seeking a motivated Structural Engineer with 3-5 years of experience with strong Revit skills. In this role, you will work on a diverse mix of projects, including ...

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$80K - $85K/yr

The structural and geo-structural practices provide engineering services on a wide range of projects including building design, evaluation of building facades, testing and instrumentation, excavation ...

Structural Engineer

Crown Point, IN · Hybrid

$36.06 - $57.69/hr

Structural Engineer | Hybrid Join our team as a Structural Engineer and contribute to the design and analysis of steel, concrete, and masonry systems in utility and industrial facilities. You will ...

A licensed engineer who works on a variety of projects on structural design, preparation of implementation documentation, coordination with clients and construction administration. Collaborates with ...

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

The Structural Engineer, with supervision from the Manager of Structural Engineering or Project Engineer, will provide the technical, organizational and communication skills to produce well-designed ...

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Showing results 1-20

Structural Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51.5K

$102.4K

$156.6K

How much do structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer in Chicago, IL is $102,396.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $116,400.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Structural Engineer job openings:
Senior Structural Engineer

$125K - $160K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

About Us

Clayco is a full-service, turnkey real estate development, master planning, architecture, engineering, and construction firm that safely delivers clients across North America the highest quality solutions on time, on budget, and above and beyond expectations. With $8.1 billion in revenue for 2025, Clayco specializes in the "art and science of building," providing fast track, efficient solutions for mission critical, industrial, life sciences, power & energy, aviation, commercial, institutional, residential and sports & entertainment related building projects.


About LJC

LJC Design & Engineering is a full-service architecture, engineering, and design firm committed to enhancing the quality of the human experience through integrated design. We are a team of high-energy professionals who share a passion for design, a collaborative approach, and a casual culture. We solve challenges by leveraging the collective expertise and ingenuity of the best and brightest minds across development, design, and construction.

The Role We Want You For

LJC is currently seeking a licensed Senior Structural Engineer to join our design team. In this role you will be working with in-house Development, Architecture, and Construction teams to provide Structural Design and Quality Assurance on industrial, mission critical, life sciences, and residential projects for our nationwide clients.

The Specifics of the Role

  • Define and develop preliminary structural systems that coordinate with other design trades in an effort to provide a collaborative design.
  • Project designs based on construction schedule versus fully finished package.
  • Preliminary pricing advantages due to historical construction experience.
  • Value engineering is ongoing as the design is refined.
  • Input from jobsite can identify construction issues.
  • Projects can be designed to the builder’s strength.
  • Easier for engineer to issue changes or make revisions.
  • Opportunity for site and Quality visits to assist in solving field issues.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering required; Master’s Degree with Structural emphasis preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience designing commercial projects, ideally industrial, mission critical, and/or life sciences.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) or Structural Engineer (SE)
  • Knowledge of CAD software, such as AutoCad and Revit
  • Proficiency with structural analysis software such as Tekla Structural Designer
  • Experience working in a multi-disciplinary project team.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.

Some Things You Should Know

  • No other builder can offer the collaborative design-build approach that Clayco does.
  • We work on creative, complex, award-winning, high-profile jobs.
  • The pace is fast!

Why Clayco and LJC?

  • 2025 Best Places to Work – St. Louis Business Journal, Los Angeles Business Journal, and Phoenix Business Journal.
  • 2025 ENR Top 400 – Top Data Center Contractor (Top 3).
  • 2025 ENR Top 100 Design-Build Firms – Design-Build Contractor (Top 5).
  • 2025 ENR Top 100 Green Contractors – Green Contractor (Top 3).

Benefits

  • Discretionary Annual Bonus: Subject to company and individual performance.
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package Including: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401k, generous PTO and paid company holidays, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability coverage, learning & development programs and more!

Compensation

  • The salary range for this position considers a wide range of factors in making compensation decisions including but not limited to: Education, qualifications, skills, training, experience, certifications, internal equity, and location. It is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for the role and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. The Clayco Nationwide salary range for this position is approximately $125,000  - 160,000 annually (not adjusted for location).