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Structural Engineering Research Assistant Jobs in Itasca, IL

Bridges Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$67K - $100K/yr

  • Retirement

Description Performs transportation structural engineering assignments involving transportation ... You'll assist in the design process for bridge , culvert or retaining wall structures through ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site +1

$99K - $134K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... phase engineering services to verify implementation of the design intent * Assist in resolving ... research & development sectors. Our business model covers the full process of project development ...

Showing results 21-40

Structural Engineering Research Assistant information

See Itasca, IL salary details

$11

$63

$87

How much do structural engineering research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural engineering research assistant in Itasca, IL is $63.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.37 and $74.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a structural engineering research assistant do?

A Structural Engineering Research Assistant supports research projects focused on the analysis, design, and evaluation of structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Their tasks include conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, preparing technical reports, and assisting with literature reviews. They often work under the supervision of senior researchers or professors and may use specialized software to model and simulate structural behavior. This role is essential for advancing knowledge in structural engineering and helping to develop safer, more efficient construction methods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural engineering research assistant?

To thrive as a Structural Engineering Research Assistant, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering principles, data analysis, and research methodologies, typically supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with finite element analysis software (like ANSYS or Abaqus), CAD tools, and programming languages such as MATLAB or Python is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with research teams and presenting findings. These competencies enable accurate experimental work, effective problem-solving, and contribution to advancements in structural engineering research.

How does a structural engineering research assistant typically collaborate with senior researchers and other team members?

As a Structural Engineering Research Assistant, you will regularly interact with senior researchers, faculty, and fellow assistants to support ongoing projects. Collaboration often involves contributing to experimental design, data collection, and analysis, as well as assisting in the preparation of research reports and publications. You may also participate in weekly team meetings to discuss progress and troubleshoot challenges, fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment. Effective communication and openness to feedback are key to thriving in this collaborative academic or research-focused setting.

What is the difference between Structural Engineering Research Assistant vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectStructural Engineering Research AssistantCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering; some roles may require a master'sAssociate's degree in civil engineering technology or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, university settings, or industry research departmentsConstruction sites, engineering firms, or government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research organizations, engineering firms

The Structural Engineering Research Assistant typically focuses on research, analysis, and testing related to structural systems, often in academic or research settings. In contrast, Civil Engineering Technicians are more involved in fieldwork, construction support, and practical implementation. Both roles require technical knowledge but differ mainly in their focus on research versus field application.

What job categories do people searching Structural Engineering Research Assistant jobs in Itasca, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Engineering Research Assistant jobs in Itasca, IL are:

What cities near Itasca, IL are hiring for Structural Engineering Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Itasca, IL with the most Structural Engineering Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Structural Engineering Research Assistant job openings in Itasca, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $131,910 per year, or $63.4 per hour.

Structural Engineer - Power (Chicago)

Burns & McDonnell

Chicago, IL • On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Other

Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

Description The Power Division focuses on the design and construction of power generation facilities, including fossil, hydrogen, solar, nuclear, and energy storage. Our experience also covers other types of heavy industrial facilities, such as decarbonization, mining, and gas compression. The project diversity that the Power Division offers a wide range of design, project execution, and construction experience.
Burns & McDonnell is seeking to hire an experienced Structural Engineer to join our team in our downtown Chicago office. As a structural engineer, you will work on project teams to create world class designs for new projects, alterations and redevelopments on a variety of power generation and industrial projects. The Structural Engineer will work with the project team throughout the design and construction process, adapting structural plans according to budget constraints, design factors, industry standards, or client needs.
Responsibilities to include:
  • Perform structural design of projects from the conceptual phase through design completion.
  • Modify and review production drawings for a variety of projects.
  • Design structural components for project needs and requirements that are set forth by the project managers.
  • Applies strong knowledge of commonly used structural engineering/design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures within the structural engineering services industry.
  • Research and compile project related data as required by the project managers.
  • Update drawings provided by senior engineers to verify corrections are made within multiple CAD related software.
  • Compiles information for client presentations, shop drawing review, and contract administration..
  • Performs field inspections, measurements or calculations for public and private clients.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Comply with all policies and standards.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Structural Engineering or related degree from an ABET-accredited program and 3 years of structural engineering experience required, or Bachelor's Degree, Bachelor of Science in Structural or related Engineering Technology from an ABET-accredited program, and successful completion of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and 3 years of structural engineering experience required, or Master's degree in Structural Engineering and 2 years of structural engineering experience required.
  • Strong knowledge of standard engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment and demonstrated critical thinking skills.
  • Proficient in standard engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Strong computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office Suite).
  • Strong computer skills include structural analysis programs (e.g., RISA 3D), AutoCAD, ETABS, SAFE and BIM (e.g., Revit and Tekla).
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills.
  • Engineers in Training (EIT) Certification preferred.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license is encouraged.

Compensation
$110,000.00-160,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Structural Engineering
Primary Location US-IL-Chicago
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time
Req ID: 263204
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-JJ #PWR

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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