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Structural Engineers Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Structural

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL

$103K - $140K/yr

Support junior engineers, designers, drafters, and technicians as appropriate for the candidate's experience level. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or ...

Structural

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

STRUCTURAL TECHNOLOGIES is seeking motivated earlycareer engineers to join our nationwide assessment and repair engineering division. Opportunities are available in our Chicago, Columbia, and Houston ...

Structural

Senior Civil/Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL

$103K - $140K/yr

Mentor junior engineers. Position Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in civil/structural engineering. * 10-plus years of experience in structural engineering, with a focus on the assessment and ...

Structural Technologies

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Support junior engineers, designers, drafters, and technicians as appropriate for the candidate's experience level. Qualifications * Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or ...

Daifuku

Structural Engineer I

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Coordinate with Senior Structural Engineers and other disciplines to optimize structure layouts and features to seamlessly integrate structures with mechanical equipment and the building * Perform ...

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All JobsStructural Engineers JobsStructural Engineers Jobs in Chicago, IL

Structural Engineers information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51.5K

$102.4K

$156.6K

How much do structural engineers jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural engineers in Chicago, IL is $102,396.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $116,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are structural engineers?

Structural engineers are specialized professionals who design, analyze, and ensure the safety and stability of structures such as buildings, bridges, and towers. They assess loads, materials, and environmental factors to create structures that can withstand various stresses and forces. Structural engineers work closely with architects and construction teams to bring safe and efficient designs to life, ensuring compliance with building codes and regulations.

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

Structural engineers often collaborate closely with architects, mechanical/electrical engineers, and contractors, which can present challenges like coordinating design changes, managing differing priorities, and ensuring clear communication across disciplines. Aligning structural requirements with architectural visions or mechanical system constraints requires flexibility and proactive problem-solving. Successful structural engineers are able to balance technical accuracy with teamwork, often participating in regular coordination meetings and using collaborative software to keep all stakeholders informed and aligned throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Structural Engineers vs Civil Engineers?

AspectStructural EngineersCivil Engineers
CredentialsTypically require a bachelor's degree in structural or civil engineering, licensure (PE), and specialized training in structural designRequire a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, licensure (PE), and broader training in infrastructure and transportation systems
Work EnvironmentPrimarily focus on designing, analyzing, and ensuring the safety of building structures and frameworksWork on a wide range of infrastructure projects including roads, bridges, water systems, and buildings
Industry UsageOften employed by engineering firms, construction companies, and architectural firms for structural designEmployed across various sectors including construction, government agencies, and consulting firms for infrastructure projects

While both roles require engineering credentials and licensure, Structural Engineers specialize in designing and analyzing building frameworks, whereas Civil Engineers have a broader scope covering infrastructure and public works projects.

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 structural analysis, engineering principles, and mathematics, generally supported by a civil or structural engineering degree and relevant licensure (such as a PE). Familiarity with industry-standard software like AutoCAD, Revit, SAP2000, and proficiency in building codes are highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams set outstanding professionals apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing safe, efficient structures and ensuring regulatory compliance in complex construction projects.
What are popular job titles related to Structural Engineers jobs in Chicago, IL? For Structural Engineers jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Structural Engineers jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Engineers jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Structural Engineers jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Engineers job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,396 per year, or $49.2 per hour.
Principal Structural Engineer

Principal Structural Engineer

Valdes Architecture & Engineering

Lombard, IL • On-site

$125K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Valdes Architecture & Engineering is seeking an experienced Principal Structural Engineer to provide technical leadership on complex industrial, power, manufacturing, and process facility projects. This role is ideal for an accomplished structural engineering professional who enjoys solving challenging engineering problems, mentoring high-performing teams, and partnering directly with clients to deliver innovative, practical solutions.
As a Principal Structural Engineer, you'll play a key role in project execution, business development, technical excellence, and the continued growth of our Structural Engineering practice.
What You Will Do
Technical Leadership
  • Lead the structural engineering design of complex industrial, manufacturing, process, and power generation facilities.
  • Independently develop structural designs from concept through construction.
  • Design steel, reinforced concrete, masonry, and foundation systems for a wide variety of industrial applications.
  • Design shallow and deep foundations, underground concrete vaults, tunnels, pipe supports, pipe racks, equipment foundations, access platforms, support towers, stair systems, ladders, and structural framing systems.
  • Develop innovative structural solutions for complex field conditions and retrofit projects.
  • Perform structural evaluations and condition assessments of existing facilities.
Engineering & Analysis
  • Perform advanced structural analysis using industry-standard software including RISA-3D and STAAD.Pro.
  • Interpret and apply domestic and international structural design codes and standards.
  • Review structural calculations, construction documents, specifications, and design deliverables.
  • Review reinforcement detailing, structural steel fabrication drawings, and vendor submittals.
Project Leadership
  • Serve as the Structural Discipline Lead on multidisciplinary engineering projects.
  • Develop engineering budgets, schedules, staffing plans, and work-hour estimates.
  • Manage project resources while maintaining quality, schedule, and budget expectations.
  • Coordinate closely with civil, mechanical, electrical, piping, and process engineering teams.
Client & Business Development
  • Collaborate with clients during project planning, scope development, and proposal preparation.
  • Build and maintain trusted client relationships through technical excellence and responsive communication.
  • Support business development initiatives and strategic growth opportunities.
Mentorship
  • Mentor and develop junior engineers and designers.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performance engineering culture focused on continuous improvement and technical excellence.
Field Support
  • Perform site visits to verify existing conditions and support construction activities.
  • Assist with resolving field engineering challenges and constructability issues.
  • Travel for short- and long-term field assignments as project needs require.

What You'll Bring
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or Architecture (Master's preferred)
  • 15+ years of structural engineering experience supporting industrial, manufacturing, process, or power generation projects
  • Professional Engineer (PE) or Structural Engineer (SE) license required
  • Demonstrated experience leading structural engineering projects and multidisciplinary teams
  • Advanced knowledge of structural steel, reinforced concrete, foundations, and industrial structures
  • Strong proficiency with RISA-3D, STAAD.Pro, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office
  • Experience preparing structural assessment and evaluation reports
  • Strong understanding of engineering codes, standards, and industry best practices
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and client relationship skills
  • Exceptional organizational and project management abilities
  • Authorization to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship

Why Valdes?
At Valdes Architecture & Engineering, you'll join a multidisciplinary team that designs the infrastructure powering industries and communities across the country.
Our engineers work on challenging projects in:
  • Industrial Manufacturing
  • Power Generation & Energy
  • Chemical Processing
  • Oil & Gas
  • Life Sciences & Pharmaceuticals
  • Utilities
  • Infrastructure & Heavy Industrial Facilities

We believe great engineering starts with great people. Our collaborative culture empowers employees to innovate, lead, mentor, and continue growing throughout their careers.
Why You Will Love This Role
  • Lead technically challenging, high-impact structural engineering projects
  • Collaborate with nationally recognized multidisciplinary engineering teams
  • Mentor the next generation of structural engineers
  • Influence project strategy and business growth
  • Hybrid work environment
  • Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
  • Opportunity to shape the future of Valdes' Structural Engineering practice

$125,000 - $200,000 a year
Salaries for all positions are based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, total years of experience in the industry, education, skills, and qualifications. Compensation may vary depending on the candidate's individual background and expertise. Salaries are subject to fluctuation outside of the given range. The indicated range is not a commitment and meant as a guideline. All compensation, exempt or non-exempt status, and benefits will be discussed during the interview process.
Valdes Architecture & Engineering Company is looking for bright and talented people that want to take their career to the next level. We offer many rewarding career paths to challenge and engage our employees at all phases of their careers. Our office provides a team environment, and excellent working conditions, which allow individuals to maximize their potential. Valdes Architecture & Engineering offers an outstanding benefits package including Medical, Dental, 401K plan, Company paid Long Term and Short Term Disability Insurance, Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance, Pet Insurance, a discounted gym membership and tuition reimbursement.
EEO/AAE
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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