1

Structural Steel Design Engineer Jobs in California

Design structural systems utilizing concrete, steel, wood, masonry, and cold-formed steel * Develop creative and practical engineering solutions for complex structural challenges * Prepare structural ...

Design structural systems utilizing concrete, steel, wood, masonry, and cold-formed steel * Develop creative and practical engineering solutions for complex structural challenges * Prepare structural ...

Structural Design Engineer

Lathrop, CA ยท On-site

$84K - $103K/yr

As a Structural Design Engineer , you'll play a crucial role in the design process, ensuring that ... steel, wall and roof panels, secondary members, and stability bracing. Your duties will include ...

As a Structural Design Engineer , you'll play a crucial role in the design process, ensuring that ... steel, wall and roof panels, secondary members, and stability bracing. Your duties will include ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Structural Steel Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$22.7K

$101.4K

$157.9K

How much do structural steel design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for structural steel design engineer in California is $101,428.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $130,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Structural Steel Design Engineer vs Structural Draftsman?

AspectStructural Steel Design EngineerStructural Draftsman
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil/Structural Engineering, PE license often preferredDiploma or certification in drafting or CAD software
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, engineering firmsDesign offices, architectural firms, construction companies
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, consulting firmsArchitectural firms, engineering firms, construction companies

The Structural Steel Design Engineer focuses on creating and analyzing structural steel designs, ensuring safety and compliance. In contrast, the Structural Draftsman primarily prepares detailed drawings and plans based on engineers' designs. Both roles are essential in the construction process but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

How does a Structural Steel Design Engineer typically collaborate with architects and construction teams during a project?

Structural Steel Design Engineers frequently work alongside architects to ensure that the structural framework aligns with the building's design intent while meeting safety and regulatory standards. They also coordinate closely with construction teams to address fabrication details, resolve onsite challenges, and clarify design documents. Effective communication and collaboration are essential throughout the project lifecycle to ensure the steel structures are both practical to build and compliant with all requirements. This teamwork helps to identify potential conflicts early and promotes efficient project delivery.

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

To thrive as a Structural Steel Design Engineer, you need a solid grasp of structural analysis, steel design principles, and a degree in civil or structural engineering, often supported by a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, STAAD.Pro, or Tekla Structures, as well as knowledge of relevant building codes, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with architects, contractors, and clients. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, cost-effective, and code-compliant structural solutions.

What does a Structural Steel Design Engineer do?

A Structural Steel Design Engineer specializes in designing, analyzing, and overseeing the construction of steel frameworks for buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Their work ensures that structures are safe, stable, and meet all relevant codes and regulations. They use advanced software to create detailed blueprints and collaborate with architects, contractors, and other engineers throughout the project. Additionally, they may inspect sites and materials to verify compliance with design specifications.
What job categories do people searching Structural Steel Design Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Structural Steel Design Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Structural Steel Design Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Structural Steel Design Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Structural Steel Design Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,428 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Structural Engineer

Resource Management Solutions

Ventura, CA โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Our client is a professional engineering firm with over 30 years of experience specializing in hands-on structural engineering from concept to construction support based out of Ventura, CA. Our client works across a diverse set of market segments including Oil & Gas (Onshore and Offshore), Heavy Industrial, Marine Structures, and Civil Infrastructure. Our client is seeking a talented and dynamic Engineering professional (Structural/Civil) with a background in structural steel design to join their team in Ventura, CA. This position could be a remote position for the right candidate located as far north as the San Francisco Bay area.


  • Work closely with clients and team members to develop practical solutions to unique and challenging problems
  • Attend and participate in client meetings.
  • Perform field activities such as observe and record existing field conditions, take and verify measurements within the project area.
  • Organize, draft, and coordinate technical documents.
  • Develop probable construction cost estimates for his/her projects within the department.
  • May direct and supervise other Designers/Drafters activities.
  • Coordinate work with other disciplines such as architectural, mechanical, electrical, etc.
  • Handle routine contract administration.



  • Master's degree in Structural Engineering highly desirable
  • PE or SE license
  • 10 - 15 years of experience in structural steel design
  • Finite element analysis experience
  • Experience in developing structural details in accordance with client specifications and current structural codes
  • Advanced understanding of construction materials, techniques, and processes
  • Up to date understanding of best practices regarding building code requirements and safety measures
  • Self-starter with the ability to manage projects, develop project scopes and cost estimates
  • A team player with a strong work ethic and responsive approach to dynamic projects

Competitive pay offered commensurate with experience.