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Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Adapts instruction using structural analysis software, code reference materials, and design problem sets to support advanced undergraduate and graduate civil engineering students preparing for ...

Master's degree in civil/structural engineering is preferred * New graduate candidates considered; additional bridge/structural design experience will also be considered * Must be willing to work ...

Master's degree in civil/structural engineering is preferred * New graduate candidates considered; additional bridge/structural design experience will also be considered * Must be willing to work ...

Mentor and monitor work by other bridge engineers. Provide design oversight and perform quality ... Graduate Degree highly desired. * Minimum of 10 years of experience in the structural design of ...

Mentor and monitor work by other bridge engineers. Provide design oversight and perform quality ... Graduate Degree highly desired. * Minimum of 10 years of experience in the structural design of ...

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Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$46.3K

$92K

$140.6K

How much do trainee graduate structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee graduate structural engineer in Columbia, SC is $91,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $104,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a trainee graduate structural engineer do?

A Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and assessing building structures to ensure they are safe, stable, and meet regulatory standards. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers, helping to create technical drawings, perform calculations, and visit construction sites. Their day-to-day tasks often include using software for modeling structures, preparing reports, and collaborating with architects and other professionals. This role is designed to provide practical experience and training for recent graduates pursuing a career in structural engineering.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a trainee graduate structural engineer?

To thrive as a Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer, you need a degree in civil or structural engineering and a solid understanding of structural analysis and design principles. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis tools, along with knowledge of relevant codes and standards, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, teamwork, and clear communication skills make candidates stand out. These competencies are crucial for delivering safe, effective engineering solutions and collaborating efficiently on complex construction projects.

What types of projects can a trainee graduate structural engineer expect to work on during their first year?

As a Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer, you’ll typically be involved in a diverse range of projects, from assisting with the design of residential and commercial buildings to supporting infrastructure developments like bridges or public facilities. Early in your career, you’ll likely focus on tasks such as preparing technical drawings, conducting site visits under supervision, and performing calculations using industry-standard software. This exposure helps you understand different construction methods, materials, and regulatory requirements while collaborating closely with experienced engineers, architects, and construction teams.

What is the difference between Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer vs Graduate Civil Engineer?

AspectTrainee Graduate Structural EngineerGraduate Civil Engineer
QualificationsTypically a Bachelor's or Master's in Structural or Civil EngineeringUsually a Bachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, consulting engineering offices, construction sitesConstruction sites, design firms, infrastructure projects
CertificationsMay pursue Chartered Engineer status (CEng)Likewise, may pursue CEng or similar certifications
Job FocusStructural design, analysis, and safety assessmentsBroader civil engineering tasks including transportation, water, and structural work

The main difference is that a Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer specializes in structural design and analysis, while a Graduate Civil Engineer has a broader focus on various civil engineering disciplines. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their work environments and project types differ slightly.

What job categories do people searching Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Trainee Graduate Structural Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,959 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Structural Engineer (Structural Steel)

Columbia, SC • On-site

Tiello
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Structural Engineer (Steel Erection Engineering & Connection Design)


Location: Columbia, SC


Benefits:

  • Quarterly performance-based bonus
  • 401(k)
  • 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees
  • Paid time off, 10 paid holidays, and unlimited sick leave
  • Paid parental leave
  • Tuition assistance for graduate studies
  • Company-paid professional development (PE/SE preparation, NASCC, etc.)
  • Relocation assistance available


Company Overview:

Tiello has partnered with a highly respected Structural Steel Engineering Firm on their search for a Structural Engineer in Columbia, South Carolina. This organization specializes in steel erection engineering and structural steel connection design, supporting commercial and industrial construction projects throughout the United States.


Role Summary:

The Structural Engineer will be responsible for performing steel erection engineering, structural analysis, temporary bracing design, erection planning, and structural steel connection design. This individual will work closely with fabricators, erectors, project managers, detailers, and field personnel to develop safe, practical, and efficient engineering solutions throughout the construction process.


The ideal candidate will have experience in both structural steel design and erection engineering, possess strong technical knowledge of structural analysis, and enjoy collaborating directly with field teams to solve complex engineering challenges. This position offers the opportunity to work on a wide variety of structural steel projects while contributing to process improvements and engineering innovation.


Project Types:

Commercial Buildings, Industrial Facilities, Manufacturing Plants, Distribution Centers, Institutional Projects, Structural Steel Fabrication & Erection Projects


Job Responsibilities:

  • Analyze partially erected structural steel frames for stability under construction loading
  • Design temporary bracing systems and erection engineering solutions
  • Prepare site-specific erection plans and erection sequencing
  • Develop lift plans for structural steel assemblies, trusses, and preassembled components
  • Design structural steel connections for a variety of commercial and industrial projects
  • Coordinate directly with steel erectors, fabricators, and field personnel to resolve site-specific engineering challenges
  • Conduct periodic job site visits to observe erection activities and provide engineering support
  • Utilize engineering software including RAM Elements, MathCAD Prime, IDEA StatiCa, Revit, and similar structural analysis programs
  • Review BIM models using Trimble Connect to assist with coordination and connection detailing
  • Prepare engineering calculations, reports, submittals, and respond to RFIs
  • Review shop drawings and connection details for accuracy and constructability
  • Assist with developing internal engineering tools, calculation templates, and design processes
  • Collaborate with project teams to ensure safe, efficient, and successful project execution


Qualifications / Requirements:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering
  • Minimum of 3 years of structural steel engineering experience
  • Experience with steel erection engineering required
  • FE certification required; PE license or active pursuit of licensure preferred
  • Strong working knowledge of AISC 303, AISC Design Guide 10, ASCE 37, and OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart R
  • Experience using structural analysis software such as RAM Elements, RISA 3D, SAP2000, STAAD.Pro, or equivalent
  • Ability to interpret structural drawings, shop drawings, and erection drawings
  • Strong understanding of structural steel connection design and constructability
  • Excellent communication and problem-solving skills with the ability to collaborate with office and field personnel
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
  • Willingness to travel to project sites approximately once or twice per month
  • Eligibility to work in the U.S.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Professional Engineer (PE) License
  • Experience working with structural steel fabricators or erectors
  • Familiarity with Tekla Structures, SDS2, Bluebeam, or similar software
  • Crane and rigging knowledge
  • Experience with Excel automation, VBA, Python, or other programming languages
  • Interest in process improvement, AI, and engineering workflow optimization



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About Tiello

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2016