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Structural Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

Aspire Bakeries

Journeyman Engineer

Stockton, CA

$39.26/hr

As a Journeyman Engineer, you will provide technical leadership and handson support to the maintenance team while ensuring equipment reliability, preventative maintenance execution, and minimal ...

UC Construction

Be Seen First

Construction Superintendent

Modesto, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... structural quality, workplace safety, and face-to-face customer satisfaction that our family ... engineering drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and master schedules. * Phased Expertise:

Veteran-friendly

UC Construction

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Construction Superintendent

Manteca, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... structural quality, workplace safety, and face-to-face customer satisfaction that our family ... engineering drawings, specifications, scopes of work, and master schedules. * Phased Expertise:

Veteran-friendly

Simpson Strong-Tie

Tool Room Machinist Union

Stockton, CA · On-site

$19 - $40.14/hr

Simpson Strong-Tie is a leader in engineered structural connectors, software, and solutions for the building industry. We maintain a reputation as a trusted manufacturer, partner, and corporate ...

Simpson Strong-Tie

Associate Tool Designer

Stockton, CA · On-site

$64K - $102K/yr

Simpson Strong-Tie is a leader in engineered structural connectors, software, and solutions for the building industry. We maintain a reputation as a trusted manufacturer, partner, and corporate ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsStructural Engineer JobsStructural Engineer Jobs in Modesto, CA

Structural Engineer information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$52.8K

$104.9K

$160.4K

How much do structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer in Modesto, CA is $104,867.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $119,200.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer jobs in Modesto, CA are:
What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Structural Engineer job openings:
Structural Engineer jobs near you
Research & Development Mechanical Engineer

Research & Development Mechanical Engineer

SPECTRA TECH INC

Livermore, CA

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

What your job will be like

The Telemetry (TM) team at the National Laboratories in Livermore, CA is seeking an R&D Mechanical Engineer to join our dynamic team! We are responsible for the design, development, testing, and qualification of multiple telemetry products across the ND portfolio. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will contribute to the mechanical design, conduct full product environmental testing, and verify requirements in support of qualification and product delivery. Your role will also include fixture development, documentation, hardware assembly, and managing fabrication processes. Our telemetry units are highly integrated electro-mechanical designs that must operate effectively in severe environments. Success in this role requires the ability to collaborate with a multi-faceted engineering team.

A successful candidate would have skills and experience with the following:

Mechanical Testing (Shock, Vibration, Temperature, Pressure, Humidity) and data analysis

Strong design skills in CAD (CREO preferred)

Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) knowledge

Experience designing for multiple manufacturing processes including machined aluminum, sheet metal and 3D printing (FDM)

Demonstrated strong documentation related to product development within a quality management system

Mentorship and leadership ability

Strong, methodical approach to problem-solving

Collaborate with stakeholders to understand and document system needs and requirements for Telemetry hardware

Work with a cross-functional team to establish long-term visions and short-term priorities for the mechanical engineering team

Utilize critical thinking to troubleshoot both mechanical and electromechanical issues, providing solutions within programmatic constraints

Engage in hands-on work with the Telemetry product through fabrication and testing activities

Use CREO and PDMLink to design and model the Telemetry product\

Perform and analyze fine element analysis (FEA) simulations for stress, strain, modal and thermal environments

Work with vendors and Sandia buyers to procure development parts

Work with MCAD and the product definition team to create and authorize product drawings

The position requires an ability to travel up to 25% to support the mission.

Due to the nature of the work, the selected applicant must be able to work onsite 100% of the time at the Livermore, CA facility.

Qualifications we Require

A Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and five (5) years of directly relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of directly relevant education and engineering or scientific experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform independent research and development.

Demonstrated experience with Creo, Solidworks, or similar MCAD design tool.

Demonstrated experience developing or executing procedures associated with high value hardware (flight, customer deliverable, production).

Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q security clearance.

Qualifications we Desire:

The ideal R&D S&E Mechanical Engineer candidate for the National Laboratories will in addition possess the following:

Graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering or a highly related field where an independent research project was a graduation requirement (e.g., independent project, thesis, or dissertation).

Experience with mechanical engineering and product realization in the NNSA complex.

Strong verbal and written communication skills, ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Demonstrated breadth of knowledge in Mechanical Engineering and other engineering fields through school projects or work experience.

Demonstrated experience drafting drawings using GD&T per ANSI Y14.5.

Experience in roles that required leadership and/or mentorship.

Employment Type: Full-Time Employee

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