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 strong background in civil or structural engineering, analytical problem-solving abilities, and typically a relevant degree and professional licensure (such as PE or SE). Proficiency with structural analysis software like SAP2000, ETABS, AutoCAD, and building information modeling (BIM) tools is commonly required. Strong communication, teamwork, and attention to detail are standout soft skills for collaborating on multidisciplinary projects and ensuring design accuracy. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing safe, efficient structures and delivering successful construction projects.
What are some common challenges faced by structural engineers when working on multidisciplinary projects?
Structural engineers often collaborate closely with architects, mechanical, and electrical engineers on multidisciplinary projects, which can present challenges related to balancing structural requirements with aesthetic or functional goals. Coordinating design changes, ensuring compliance with diverse codes, and managing communication across teams are common hurdles. Effective collaboration and proactive problem-solving are essential to meet project deadlines and ensure a cohesive final design. Developing strong interpersonal and project management skills will help structural engineers navigate these challenges successfully.
What are structural engineers?
Structural engineers are professionals who design, analyze, and ensure the safety of structures such as buildings, bridges, and tunnels. Their primary responsibility is to make sure structures can withstand loads and forces, including wind, earthquakes, and the weight of occupants. They work closely with architects and construction teams to create safe, functional, and cost-effective designs. Structural engineers use their knowledge of physics, mathematics, and materials science to solve complex engineering problems.
What is the difference between Structural vs Civil Engineer?
| Aspect | Structural Engineer | Civil Engineer |
|---|
| Credentials | Typically requires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, licensure (PE) | Requires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, licensure (PE) |
| Work Environment | Focuses on designing and analyzing building frameworks, bridges, and other structures | Works on infrastructure projects like roads, dams, and urban planning |
| Industry Usage | Specialized within construction, architecture, and engineering firms | Broader industry application including transportation, urban development, and environmental projects |
| Common Search/Comparison | Often compared for project scope and specialization | More general, encompassing various civil projects |
While both Structural and Civil Engineers require similar educational backgrounds and licensure, Structural Engineers specialize in designing and analyzing load-bearing structures like buildings and bridges. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on infrastructure projects such as roads, water systems, and urban development. The choice depends on your specific career interests and project focus.
What is it like to work at Hendrickson?
Hendrickson is a company that values innovation, collaboration, and customer satisfaction, fostering a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement.
As a leading global supplier of integrated suspension and braking systems, Hendrickson operates in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, with a diverse team of engineers, technicians, and support staff working together to design and manufacture high-quality products. The company's mission is to provide innovative solutions that improve the safety, efficiency, and sustainability of the transportation industry.
Working at Hendrickson may appeal to candidates who are passionate about engineering, manufacturing, and problem-solving, as the company offers opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and contributions to cutting-edge projects that shape the future of transportation.
Do workers at Hendrickson get paid breaks?
Yes. Most people get paid breaks.
76% of people say they get paid breaks.
Based on data from 29 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.
Does Hendrickson pay people when they’re sick?
No. Most people don’t get paid when they’re sick.
82% of people say they wouldn’t get paid if they were sick but scheduled to work.
Based on data from 33 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
At Hendrickson, are sick days and vacation days separate paid time off?
Only some people have separate paid time off for sick days and vacation.
59% of people say they have to use vacation days when they’re out sick.
Based on data from 17 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between June 2025 and April 2026.
Is the health insurance from Hendrickson affordable enough for their workers?
Most people say the health insurance costs are okay.
88% of people say the health insurance costs are okay
Based on data from 24 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between March 2025 and April 2026.
Do people get paid time off at Hendrickson?
Most people get paid time off work.
85% of people say they get paid time off.
Based on data from 20 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between May 2025 and April 2026.
Do workers at Hendrickson worry about hours?
Most people don’t worry about getting enough hours.
89% of people report they don’t worry about getting enough hours.
Based on data from 19 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.
Do Hendrickson workers get to choose the shifts they work?
Some people don’t get to choose which shifts they work.
60% report that they don’t have enough control over which shifts they work.
Based on data from 15 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.
How easy is it for Hendrickson workers to change shifts?
Most people find it hard to change shifts.
90% of people report that it’s hard to change shifts if they need to.
Based on data from 10 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between January 2025 and March 2026.
How easy is it to get time off at Hendrickson?
Most people find it easy to get time off.
74% of people report it’s easy to get time off.
Based on data from 31 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
Do Hendrickson managers change schedules at the last minute?
Most managers don’t change people’s schedules at the last minute.
78% of people say their manager doesn’t change their shift schedule at the last minute.
Based on data from 18 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.
Do workers at Hendrickson do extra work that they don't get paid for?
Rarely. Most people don’t do unpaid extra work.
94% of people report that they don’t do extra unpaid work.
Based on data from 16 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.
How easy is it to take sick days at Hendrickson?
Some people find it hard to take sick days.
37% of people report that it’s hard to take time off if they are sick.
Based on data from 30 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
Is working at Hendrickson good if you’re a parent or caregiver?
Only some parents and caregivers say this is a good place to work.
64% of people who care for a child or other relative report this isn’t a good place to work.
Based on data from 11 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between February 2025 and March 2026.
Do people at Hendrickson feel treated with respect by their managers?
Some people don’t feel treated with respect by their managers.
41% of people say they’re not treated with respect by their managers.
Based on data from 29 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.
Do people at Hendrickson get to take their breaks without interruption?
Most people get breaks without interruption.
68% of people report that they get to take their breaks without interruption.
Based on data from 31 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
Is it stressful to work at Hendrickson?
Some people feel stressed out here.
56% of people say they often feel stressed out at work.
Based on data from 32 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
Do people at Hendrickson enjoy their jobs?
Only some people enjoy their job.
52% of people report they don’t enjoy their job.
Based on data from 27 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
Do people at Hendrickson recommend working with their team?
Only some people recommend working with their team.
52% of people report that they wouldn’t recommend working with their immediate team to a friend.
Based on data from 33 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
Do people get enough training when they start at Hendrickson?
Some people didn’t get enough training when they started.
36% of people report they didn’t get enough training when they started working here.
Based on data from 33 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
Do people get support to advance at Hendrickson?
Only some people are given support to advance their career here.
In the last year, 44% of people report not being given support to advance their career here.
Based on data from 32 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and April 2026.
Do people think Hendrickson’s headquarters understands what’s happening where they work?
Most people think headquarters doesn’t understand what’s happening where they work.
77% of people think that this employer’s headquarters or owners don’t have a good understanding of what’s really happening where they work.
Based on data from 31 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.
Do workers feel well informed about how Hendrickson is doing?
Only some people feel well informed about how the company is doing.
35% of people feel that they aren’t kept well informed about how the company is doing as a whole.
Based on data from 31 people who took the Breakroom Quiz between December 2024 and March 2026.
What are the most popular jobs at Hendrickson? What are the most popular categories at Hendrickson? 