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Structural Engineering Research Jobs in Downey, CA

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Structural Engineering Research information

See Downey, CA salary details

$52K

$103.4K

$158.1K

How much do structural engineering research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineering research in Downey, CA is $103,369.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,200.00 and $117,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a structural engineering research?

A Structural Engineering Research job involves studying, analyzing, and developing new methods, materials, and technologies to improve the strength, durability, and safety of structures. Researchers in this field work on theoretical and experimental projects, often collaborating with engineers, universities, and industry partners. They may focus on areas such as structural mechanics, earthquake engineering, material behavior, and sustainability. The role typically involves conducting simulations, laboratory testing, and publishing findings in technical journals. This research helps advance building codes, construction techniques, and innovative structural solutions.

What types of projects and day-to-day tasks are common in structural engineering research roles?

Professionals in Structural Engineering Research often work on projects such as developing new building materials, assessing the structural integrity of innovative designs, or creating computational models to predict structural behavior under various conditions. Daily tasks may include conducting laboratory experiments, performing data analysis, collaborating with academic or industry partners, and preparing technical reports or research papers. Researchers often work within multidisciplinary teams, interfacing with architects, construction professionals, and other engineers to solve complex problems. This role offers a dynamic mix of hands-on experimentation, analytical work, and frequent knowledge sharing, making it ideal for those who enjoy both technical rigor and creative problem-solving.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in structural engineering research?

To thrive in Structural Engineering Research, you need advanced knowledge of structural analysis, materials science, and engineering principles, typically supported by a master’s or doctoral degree in civil or structural engineering. Familiarity with specialized software such as MATLAB, ANSYS, or SAP2000, as well as experience with laboratory testing and analytical tools, is often required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex findings clearly are highly valued in this field. These qualifications are essential for conducting innovative research and developing safe, effective solutions to structural engineering challenges.

What job categories do people searching Structural Engineering Research jobs in Downey, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Engineering Research jobs in Downey, CA are:

What cities near Downey, CA are hiring for Structural Engineering Research jobs?

Cities near Downey, CA with the most Structural Engineering Research job openings:

Structural Engineering Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Engineering Research job openings in Downey, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,369 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Principal, Structural Engineering

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger
Civil Engineering Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Simpson Gumpertz & Hegerexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Do you want to help engineer what's next?
Simpson Gumpertz & Heger (SGH) is a national engineering firm committed to delivering holistic advice for our clients' most complex challenges. We leverage our collective and diverse experience, technical expertise, and industry knowledge of structures and building enclosures, advanced analysis, performance & code consulting, and applied science & research to deliver unrivaled, comprehensive solutions that drive superior performance. With 800 employees in offices nationwide, SGH's industry-leading teams constantly seek to advance the meaning of what's possible.
What makes careers at SGH so special?
The only way to advance is to question and explore. Every member of the SGH team is both a learner and an educator, committed to advancing ourselves, our teams, and our industry. Together we are creating a community that never settles for what is but always seeks what could be.
There are many reasons to love SGH:
  • Our Work: Our clients trust us to bring clarity and deliver outstanding solutions for their most complex projects.
  • Our People: We are bold thinkers and compassionate teammates, committed to lifelong learning and professional growth.
  • Our Commitment: We live with integrity and embrace an obligation to give back to our professions and communities.
  • Our Contribution: We offer a comprehensive and rich compensation and benefits package with company-paid and voluntary programs to help build healthy lifestyles, strong relationships, and future prosperity.

We want someone passionate about technical leadership and business development.
As a Principal in Structural Engineering, you will provide leadership in the planning, design, and delivery of complex building and infrastructure projects. This role involves overseeing structural engineering across a variety of materials, including steel, concrete, masonry, and timber, for diverse project types such as commercial, residential, healthcare, higher education, cultural, and transportation facilities.
The Position:
  • Provide leadership in the design and investigation of structures across a broad range of sectors, including high-rise, long-span, temporary, and historic structures across a range of uses, markets, and industries.
  • Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams including structural engineers, metallurgists, material scientists, and other technical specialists.
  • Manage and deliver projects from concept through completion, including scoping, budgeting, scheduling, client communication, and quality control.
  • Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with clients, industry partners, and other stakeholders to generate new business opportunities and drive growth.
  • Mentor and develop junior and mid-level staff, supporting their technical and professional development.
  • Contribute to SGH's thought leadership by participating in code development, industry committees, technical publications, and public speaking opportunities.
  • Promote SGH's collaborative and ethical culture while helping to elevate the firm's national profile in structural engineering.

What You'll Need:
  • Master's degree, or higher, in Civil or Structural Engineering.
  • Licensed Structural Engineer (S.E.) in California
  • 15+ years of experience in structural engineering, including structural investigations and assessments, structural design, and construction-phase consulting.
  • Experience providing litigation support including expert witness testimony, is a plus.
  • Proven track record of technical excellence and leadership on complex projects involving building structures.
  • Demonstrated business development skills and ability to build lasting client relationships.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience presenting technical topics to clients, peers, and public audiences.
  • SGH prides itself on its standards of ethics and honesty; candidates must view these qualities as paramount.

Benefits Overview:
SGH provides the following benefits to eligible employees.
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation time, Sick leave, Holidays)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Profit Sharing and 401(k) plan with a discretionary company contribution
  • Health Insurance (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Short and Long-Term Disability (company paid)
  • Employee Basic Life and AD&D insurance (company paid)
  • Optional Life Insurance
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Fertility, Family Forming, and Hormonal Health benefit
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Empathy Bereavement Support
  • Pre-tax Commuter Benefit
  • AFLAC Accident & Cancer Insurance
  • Legal & Identity Theft plans
  • Tuition Reimbursement

Compensation:
The compensation range below is a good faith estimate pursuant to applicable equal pay and pay transparency laws. The actual salary offered will be based on several factors including the candidate's experience and qualifications.
Base salary is a part of SGH's industry leading Total Compensation package. Our Total Compensation package includes base salary, pay for extra direct hours worked, an annual discretionary bonus program, generous paid time off, and health and wellness benefits with a special emphasis on substantial SGH contributions to medical insurance premiums and SGH's Profit Sharing & 401(k) Plan.
Pay Range:
  • Associate Principal: $214,240 - $236,080
  • Principal: $262,080
  • Senior Principal: $273,000

Principal (all levels)
$214,240-$273,000 USD
SGH is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal opportunities to all job applicants and employees. We consider all qualified applicants and encourage individuals with disabilities and protected veterans to apply. If the application system is not accessible to you, or you need a reasonable accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email jobs@sgh.com or call 781-907-9000 and ask for Human Resources.
TO ALL RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: SGH does not accept unsolicited agency resumes or candidate profiles. Please do not forward resumes or profiles for any of our job postings to our career site or to any Simpson Gumpertz & Heger employee. SGH is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

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