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Structural Engineering Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Structural

Structural Engineer

Columbia, MD · On-site +1

STRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGIESdevelops and integrates products, engineering support, repair and maintenance services to provide value-added solutions to owners, engineers and contractors.We provide ...

Varsity Tutors

Structural Engineering Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Structural Engineering tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have ...

Varsity Tutors

Structural Engineering Tutor

Bowie, MD · Remote

$40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Structural Engineering tutors nationally. As an independent contractor on the Varsity Tutors ...

Varsity Tutors

Structural Engineering Tutor

Laurel, MD · Remote

$40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Structural Engineering tutors nationally. As an independent contractor on the Varsity Tutors ...

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All JobsStructural Engineering JobsStructural Engineering Jobs in Washington, DC

Structural Engineering information

See Washington, DC salary details

$56.6K

$112.5K

$172.1K

How much do structural engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineering in Washington, DC is $112,539.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,600.00 and $127,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is structural engineering?

Structural engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering focused on designing, analyzing, and ensuring the safety and stability of buildings, bridges, and other structures. Structural engineers work to make sure that structures can withstand the loads and forces they encounter, such as gravity, wind, earthquakes, and human use. Their work involves selecting appropriate materials, creating blueprints, and sometimes inspecting construction sites to ensure compliance with design specifications. Structural engineering plays a vital role in the safety and durability of the built environment.

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 grasp of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, usually backed by a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and relevant licensure (such as a PE license). Proficiency in structural analysis software (like SAP2000, ETABS, or AutoCAD) and familiarity with building codes are essential technical requirements. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with architects, contractors, and clients. These skills ensure the safety, stability, and efficiency of structures while facilitating teamwork and compliance with regulatory standards.

What are some common challenges structural engineers face when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Structural engineers often collaborate closely with architects, civil engineers, and construction teams on multidisciplinary projects. One common challenge is aligning structural requirements with architectural aesthetics and project budgets without compromising safety or functionality. Effective communication and early involvement in the design process are key to resolving conflicts and ensuring structural integrity. Additionally, adapting to changing project scopes and coordinating with multiple stakeholders can require strong project management and problem-solving skills.

What is the difference between Structural Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectStructural EngineeringCivil Engineering
CredentialsRequires a bachelor's degree in structural or civil engineering, PE license often preferredRequires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentFocuses on designing and analyzing structural systems for buildings, bridges, and towersEncompasses a broader range of infrastructure projects including roads, water systems, and urban planning
Industry UsageSpecialized within construction, architecture, and engineering firmsUsed across construction, transportation, urban development, and environmental sectors

Structural engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering focused on designing and analyzing structures to ensure safety and stability. Civil engineering covers a broader scope of infrastructure projects. While structural engineers concentrate on the integrity of individual structures, civil engineers handle a wide range of infrastructure systems. Both roles often require similar credentials and work environments, but their project focus and scope differ significantly.

Is there a high demand for structural engineers?

Structural engineering is a field with steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure development, construction projects, and the need for building safety. Employment opportunities are strong in regions experiencing growth, and the profession often requires knowledge of design software and engineering standards. Job prospects are generally favorable for qualified structural engineers.

What kind of work do structural engineers do?

Structural engineers design, analyze, and oversee the construction of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure to ensure they are safe and stable. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and materials knowledge to develop plans, review designs, and inspect construction sites. Their work often involves collaboration with architects, contractors, and clients throughout the project lifecycle.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineering jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Structural Engineering jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Structural Engineering jobs in Washington, DC?

For Structural Engineering jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Structural Engineering jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Structural Engineering jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Structural Engineering job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,580 per year, or $54.1 per hour.

Principal, Structural Engineering

Washington, DC • On-site

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

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Participate in the growth and development of the Washington, DC Structural Engineering Division, focusing on structural investigation practice area.

  • Lead, supervise, support, and mentor staff while managing project assignments involving structural evaluation, forensic analysis, and litigation support.

  • Develop business through client relationships, strategic marketing, and project delivery, while collaborating with other practice areas and contributing to technical publications.

Job description

We want someone passionate about technical leadership and business development.

SGH is seeking a Principal-level leader to participate in the growth and development of its Washington, DC Structural Engineering (SE) Division.

SGH's Washington, DC SE Division desires to grow its structural investigation practice area. As part of this process, SGH seeks to employ a recognized technical expert with a proven business track record who will help grow and perpetuate the success of the structural investigation practice in the Division.

The position requires technical expertise and experience in the forensic evaluation of structures and their failures and in litigation support. The candidate should demonstrate a deep understanding of the performance of structures both under environmental loading and as related to durability.  Overlap with our Structural Repair and Rehabilitation capabilities and our Materials Science capabilities would be extremely beneficial. Examples of SGH's work areas include complex commercial, institutional, industrial, energy, and horizontal infrastructure facilities. We anticipate that the candidate would collaborate extensively with our Washington, DC Building Technology (BT) Division on projects involving both disciplines. 

The Principal will be responsible for developing business and delivering projects through client relationships, strategic marketing, project management, and technical expertise and oversight. They will market, organize, coordinate, and execute project assignments of various sizes that leverage the engineering skillsets of SGH personnel. This individual will lead, supervise, support, mentor, and train staff and will work in a team atmosphere that fosters technological achievement, business development, and collaboration with other SGH practice areas while emphasizing a high-quality product. SGH Principals play key roles on professional committees and frequently contribute to journals and other technical publications.

Currently, SGH's SE Division has a strong presence in Washington, DC, with regional support from our multi-disciplinary engineering and materials laboratory and operations groups in Boston, MA. SGH's Washington, DC office is our second-largest office and includes a robust team working in Building Technology, Structural Engineering, and Advanced Analysis.  Our SE Division in Washington DC provides leading-edge services in structural investigation, repair and rehabilitation, and new structural design. In addition to the large group of BT engineers and architects in Washington, DC, the Washington, DC SE Division benefits from easy access to SGH's national team of experts including analysts, structural engineers, geotechnical engineers, civil engineers, fire engineers, materials scientists, chemists, petrographers, and architects.

What You'll Need:

  • Master of Science, Master of Engineering, or Doctorate in Structural Engineering or related field required.
  • 15+ years of professional experience in structural engineering.
  • Must have a Professional Engineer (PE) license or Structural Engineer (SE) license, SE preferred.
  • Experience with and a desire to conduct leading-edge work and experience leading projects that require finding and communicating creative solutions outside the standard.
  • Notable track record of recognized technical excellence and market leadership.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop strong client relationships and a substantial revenue base.
  • Strong leadership and mentoring skills with a commitment to developing high-level talent.
  • Participation in professional society activities and publications.
  • Experience as an accomplished public speaker.
  • Commitment to and track record of professional collaboration.
  • SGH prides itself on its standards of ethics and honesty; candidates must view these qualities as paramount.

Apply