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Structural Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Senior Bridge Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$97K - $133K/yr

Your Opportunity As the Senior Bridge Engineer, you must be highly engaged with exceptional team ... Ability to perform structural design through all phases of project document production, including ...

A bachelor's degree in architectural, civil, structural engineering or construction management ... Previous construction quality control experience is preferred * Candidate must be willing to travel ...

Quality Field Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

A bachelor's degree in architectural, civil, structural engineering or construction management ... Previous construction quality control experience is preferred * Candidate must be willing to travel ...

Civil Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself in charge of vital Navy projects, where you might: * Oversee construction of everything from ...

Civil Engineer

Tucson, AZ

$2.9K - $5.8K/mo

... structural engineering, transportation engineering and community planning. You'll quickly find yourself in charge of vital Navy projects, where you might: * Oversee construction of everything from ...

Mechanical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

... structural and thermal performance • Work with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure successful system integration • Participate in design reviews and contribute to engineering discussions ...

Senior Roadway Project Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Minimum of Bachelor's Degree Engineering with an emphasis in Civil or Structural Engineering. * Experience: With a minimum of eight (8) years of related work experience or, an equivalent combination ...

Mechanical Designer Engineer

Tucson, AZ · Hybrid

$64.64 - $74.64/hr

In this role, you'll develop mechanical designs and engineering solutions for aircraft interior and structural modifications, helping bring customer concepts to life while ensuring compliance with ...

Showing results 21-40

Structural Engineer information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$46.4K

$92.3K

$141.1K

How much do structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineer in Tucson, AZ is $92,298.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,300.00 and $104,900.00 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 Tucson, AZ? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Structural Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ? For Structural Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:
What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Engineer job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $92,298 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Senior Structural Analyst I/II

Rocket Lab Corporation

Tucson, AZ

$95K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I/II

Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) customers. Our vision is to revolutionize the space-based payload market with innovative and novel designs for space, terrestrial, and airborne environments. Building on more than 20 years of electro-optical and infrared systems innovation from Geost, Optical Systems delivers solutions to the warfighter for responsive, scalable sensing solutions across all orbital domains.

As a Senior Structural Analyst I/II based at our Optical Systems site in Tucson, AZ, you will have the opportunity to support multiple advanced space payload and IRAD programs. In this role you will contribute to technical programs across all phases, and be an integral part of the design, development, build, and test of flight hardware. To be successful in this role, you must bring curiosity, adaptability, a passion for teamwork, and keen attention to detail. Join a driven team of pioneers relentlessly tackling challenging projects, delivering on the impossible, and making an impact on the future of space!

(Please note: this position can be hired at the Senior Structural Analyst I or Senior Structural Analyst II level)

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:

  • Perform structural analysis of spacecraft components and assemblies using analytical methods and finite element analysis (FEA) tools
  • Develop and validate analytical models to predict structural behavior under integration, test, launch, operational conditions
  • Evaluate static, dynamic, thermal, and fatigue loads to ensure compliance with design requirements and safety margins
  • Collaborate with design engineers to optimize structures for weight, manufacturability, and performance
  • Support the development of test plans and interpret structural test data to correlate and validate analysis models
  • Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations to communicate analysis results and recommendations
  • Participate in design reviews and provide structural engineering input throughout the product development lifecycle
  • Stay current with industry standards, materials, and analysis techniques
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of analysis processes, tools, and best practices.
  • Use investigative and trouble-shooting skills to assess issues and develop resolutions in the lab
  • Work proactively to complete tasks with some modest direction
  • Communicate effectively with direct supervisor, project management, customers, and team members across disciplines
  • Significantly contribute to program and customer meetings and reviews
  • Support travel as required, including working off-site

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST I:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
  • 5+ year of experience in mechanical structural analysis
  • Superior computer skills and experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Femap/NASTRAN, etc.)
  • Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

QUALIFICATIONS YOU'LL BRING AS SENIOR STRUCTURAL ANALYST II:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or other technical discipline
  • 8+ years of experience in mechanical structural analysis
  • Superior computer skills and experience with FEA tools (ANSYS, Femap/NASTRAN, etc.)
  • Ability to write clear and comprehensive technical documentation
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Experience with mechanism design
  • Experience with materials engineering and processes
  • Experience with environmental testing
  • Experience with SolidWorks or NX
  • Experience in implementation and understanding of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing
  • Experience as an REA (Responsible Engineering Authority) or familiarity with documentation process controls
  • Experience with mechanical design associated with optical and electro-optical systems
  • Hands-on expertise with optical systems, telescope systems, laser systems, and/or space systems
  • Experience designing optical mounts for use in various demanding applications and environments
  • Team player who incorporates a team-based success philosophy and seeks mentorship

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.


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