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Structural Project Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary The Project Engineer is responsible for assisting the Project Manager with design and analysis of structures or structural elements, providing contract administrative duties associated ...

Structural - Project Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$86.20K - $115.30K/yr

Licensed SE if Structural Engineer in states with SE license, PE or CE / PE in other states. * LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred. * Experience in delivering projects over $20m and up to ...

Senior Structural Project Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$107.30K - $155.50K/yr

Your Opportunity The role of a Senior Structural Project Engineer is to work independently on small and medium projects, and as a team leader of larger projects responsible for work of Structural ...

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Structural Project Engineer information

See California salary details

$54.3K

$93.9K

$130.3K

How much do structural project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural project engineer in California is $93,901.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Structural Project Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Structural Project Engineer, you need a solid understanding of structural engineering principles, project management, and a relevant engineering degree, often supported by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency in structural analysis software (such as SAP2000, ETABS, or AutoCAD), as well as familiarity with building codes and construction management systems, is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills help distinguish high performers in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient project delivery and effective collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

How does a Structural Project Engineer typically interact with architects and other engineering disciplines during a project?

Structural Project Engineers work closely with architects and professionals from other engineering fields, such as mechanical and electrical, to ensure all aspects of a building's design are integrated and feasible. Collaboration often involves regular meetings, sharing design models, and resolving conflicts between structural requirements and architectural vision. This teamwork is essential to address challenges like spatial constraints, load distribution, and compliance with safety codes, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and successfully.

What does a Structural Project Engineer do?

A Structural Project Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and overseeing the construction of buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure they are safe and structurally sound. They work with architects, contractors, and other engineers to develop plans, select appropriate materials, and solve engineering problems during the construction process. Additionally, they may manage project timelines, budgets, and compliance with building codes and regulations.

What is the difference between Structural Project Engineer vs Structural Designer?

AspectStructural Project EngineerStructural Designer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil/Structural Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil/Structural Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentProject sites, engineering offices, coordination with contractorsDesign offices, CAD work, drafting environments
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, engineering consultancies, infrastructure projectsDesign firms, architectural practices, consulting companies

While both roles involve structural work, the Structural Project Engineer oversees project execution, manages teams, and ensures compliance, whereas the Structural Designer focuses on creating detailed structural designs and drawings. The Project Engineer has broader responsibilities in project management, while the Designer specializes in technical design work.

What cities in California are hiring for Structural Project Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Structural Project Engineer job openings:

Structural Project Engineer (All Levels)

Northern Impact

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$81.80K - $109.30K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview

National Award-Winning Studio & Winner of Design Firm of the Year is actively seeking Structural Project Engineers of all levels to join their Anaheim, Los Angeles, or Rancho Cucamonga office. With over 19 offices across the U.S., the award-winning architecture + engineering firm specializes in K-12 through college/university, healthcare, sports and corporate business sectors across the U.S. The company has won over 500 design awards and is recognized for shaping learning environments for students and the community. It's well established culture has also led the firm being named to the list of “Best Places to Work.” For over forty years, the multidisciplinary studio has created a client base of more than two-hundred clients, a list that includes university systems, hospital system, school districts, and Fortune 500 companies.

The Structural Division

The Structural Division specializes in comprehensive structural engineering planning and design services, including structural assessments and forensics investigations. Their engineers have extensive experience and knowledge of structural engineering services for education, commercial, religious, healthcare, sports & entertainment, hospitality, retail, and federal/government. They offer our employees a highly competitive salary and benefits package along with numerous opportunities to become involved in extra-curricular activities and organizations established through the firm.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

The Project Engineer will operate independently while receiving direct guidance from the Engineer of Record, contributing to the coordination and design of diverse structural projects throughout both design and construction phases. This role presents an outstanding opportunity for professional growth and career advancement within our forward-thinking structural engineering firm. They provide a highly competitive salary and benefits package. Success in this position requires an attentive, client-oriented individual with a flair for creative problem-solving.

  • Actively engage in coordination meetings with diverse stakeholders, including other disciplines, clients, and owners, and contribute to design review meetings.

  • Efficiently coordinate the design process to produce comprehensive construction documents within the specified project schedule and budget.

  • Skillfully prepare structural specifications, select construction procedures, determine materials and member sizes, and conduct all necessary calculations essential for design.

  • Play a crucial role in shop drawing reviews, responding to RFI’s (requests for information), handling change proposal requests, and seamlessly incorporating changes into project documents.

  • Utilize strong written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey design and coordination elements to other members of the project team.

  • Conduct site observations and walks during construction, preparing detailed reports to ensure project alignment with design intent and specifications.

Education and Work Experience Requirements

  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with a Structural emphasis.

  • Bring a minimum of 6 years of full-time progressive experience in structural engineering.

  • Possess a Professional Engineering license (P.E.) is required.

  • Demonstrate a robust understanding of the California Building Code (CBC) and all relevant design codes such as ASCE, AISC, ACI, MSJC, NDS, etc.

  • Exhibit proficiency in widely-used structural engineering and office tools, including ETABS, SAFE, RISA, RAM, ENERCALC, Excel, Bluebeam, etc.

  • Showcase a high level of proficiency in performing complete gravity and lateral analyses using design software, along with preparing comprehensive structural engineering calculation packages.

  • Preferably have familiarity with educational projects and knowledge of DSA (California applicants only) requirements and processes.

  • Demonstrate expertise in the design of various structural materials, encompassing steel, concrete, masonry, wood, etc.

  • Exhibit proficiency in drafting and navigating Revit and AutoCAD, with a preference for experience in these platforms.

  • Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Additional Notes for California Applicants

While the majority of their projects focus on K-12, their portfolio extends to encompass higher education, government buildings, sports facilities, fire stations, and modifications to existing structures. While expertise in educational projects and familiarity with the DSA process (California only applicants) are advantageous qualities in potential candidates, they also welcome individuals with a strong academic background and relevant experience in general building design in California.

We look forward to receiving your application! Apply today to learn more.