Structural Engineer Job Description (Responsibilities, Skills, Duties, and Sample Template)

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If you’ve Googled “structural engineer job description,” you’ve probably seen dozens of cookie-cutter templates. The problem? Most of them don’t actually help you attract a great structural engineer—they just give you bland bullet points that any company could copy and paste.

Here’s the truth: top engineers aren’t excited by generic lists of responsibilities. They want to know why the role matters, what kind of projects they’ll work on, and how your company supports them. But most job posts fail to inspire, which means the best candidates scroll right past your ad and apply somewhere else.

👉 That’s why before we dive into structural engineer job description templates, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/  . In that guide, we break down why generic job descriptions fail to convert and what you can do differently to attract high-quality applicants.

For now, let’s focus on structural engineers. In this article, I’ll show you:

  • A plain-English breakdown of what the role actually is.

  • Two ready-to-use job description templates (experienced hire + entry-level).

  • A real example of a bad job description—and why it doesn’t work.

  • Bonus tips to make your job post stand out from the crowd.

  • A copy-paste version you can tailor in minutes.

By the end, you’ll know how to write a structural engineer job description that does more than fill space—it connects, inspires, and attracts the right candidates.

Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.

If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.

What a Structural Engineer Actually Does

At its core, a structural engineer makes sure that buildings, bridges, and other structures don’t just look good on paper—they actually stand strong in real life. They’re the people who calculate loads, analyze materials, and design frameworks that can handle everything from heavy traffic to natural forces like wind and earthquakes.

In simpler terms: structural engineers make sure what you build is safe, stable, and built to last.

But here’s what often gets missed in job descriptions:

  • Structural engineers aren’t just number-crunchers—they’re problem solvers. They collaborate with architects, contractors, and project managers to balance safety, cost, and design.

  • They’re also communicators. The best structural engineers can take complex technical details and explain them clearly to non-technical stakeholders.

  • And beyond the calculations, they’re guardians of public safety. Their work literally impacts the safety of people who live, work, and move through the structures they design.

So, when you’re hiring for this role, remember: you’re not just looking for someone who can “do calculations”—you’re looking for someone who can ensure your projects stand the test of time, while collaborating with your team and bringing real-world problem-solving skills to the table.

Two Great Structural Engineer Job Description Templates

We’ll provide two tailored job description options:

1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.

2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.

✅ Job Description Template 1: For Experienced Structural Engineer

📌 Job Title: Structural Engineer — Commercial & Infrastructure
 💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (3 days on-site) | Compensation: $80,000–$105,000 base + annual bonus (DOE)
 📍 Location: Denver, CO (projects across the Mountain West)

🎥 Meet the Hiring Manager (2-minute video)

A quick word from our Director of Engineering on what you’ll work on, how we collaborate, and what success looks like in your first 90 days: [Watch the video] (Loom/YouTube link)

👋 About Skyline Engineering

Founded in 2004, Skyline Engineering is a Denver-based structural firm focused on commercial buildings, municipal infrastructure, and adaptive reuse. Our portfolio includes Class A office towers, signature pedestrian bridges, transit hubs, and seismic retrofits for historic properties. We’re known for pragmatic design, responsive support in the field, and a partnership mindset with architects and contractors. If you like solving real constraints—budget, schedule, constructability—while keeping people safe, you’ll feel at home here.

🌟 What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll ensure our structures don’t just meet code—they perform reliably over decades.

  • Lead design and analysis for steel, concrete (incl. PT), and timber systems on mid- to large-scale projects.

  • Model and analyze load paths; perform wind/seismic checks per IBC/ASCE 7; design foundations and lateral systems.

  • Review shop drawings, answer RFIs, and resolve field issues during construction.

  • Coordinate closely with architects, owners, and GCs to balance safety, aesthetics, and cost.

  • Mentor junior engineers; perform QA/QC on calculations and deliverables.

  • Conduct site visits for condition assessments and special inspections as needed.

✅ What We’re Looking For

  • S. in Civil/Structural Engineering (M.S. a plus).

  • PE license (CO) required; NCEES Record a plus.

  • 5+ years of structural design experience delivering built projects.

  • Proficiency with ETABS, SAP2000, RAM, or RISA; working knowledge of Revit/BIM.

  • Strong command of AISC 360, ACI 318, NDS, and ASCE 7.

  • Clear communicator who can translate complex concepts for non-technical stakeholders.

🩺 Benefits (Employee Coverage)

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (company contribution)

  • HSA/FSA options

  • 401(k) with 4% company match

  • Company-paid life and short/long-term disability

  • Paid parental leave

  • 20 days PTO + 10 company holidays

🎁 Perks (Culture & Growth)

  • Hybrid schedule with flexible hours; optional 9/80 work plan

  • Licensure fees + PDH fully covered; exam prep support

  • $2,000 annual learning stipend (conferences, courses, books)

  • Home office & equipment stipend; commuter benefits

  • Quarterly team offsites and project site tours

  • 1 paid volunteer day per year

⭐ Why This Role Is a Great Fit

  • Impactful work: You’ll shape civic and commercial spaces used by thousands daily.

  • Autonomy with support: Own packages/start-to-finish while having senior backing.

  • Field + desk balance: Get out to sites, see your designs get built, and close the loop.

  • Career growth: Clear path to Project Engineer → Project Manager with leadership training.

🤝 Our Hiring Process (Respectful & Transparent)

  • Every application is reviewed by a human.

  • Response within 2 weeks.

  • 1st round: conversation + portfolio walk-through.

  • 2nd round: practical technical exercise (e.g., beam sizing or lateral load check).

  • Final: references and offer.

📥 How to Apply

Apply via Workscreen here: [Insert Workscreen link].
 You’ll complete a short, role-relevant evaluation so we understand your strengths and ensure a fair, skills-based process.

✅ Job Description Template 2: Entry-Level / Junior Structural Engineer

📌 Job Title: Junior Structural Engineer — Training & Growth Opportunity
 💼 Type: Full-Time | In-Office (with mentorship support) | Compensation: $62,000–$72,000/year (DOE)
 📍 Location: Austin, TX

🎥 Meet Your Future Team (2-minute video)

Hear directly from our Senior Project Engineer about the kind of projects you’ll start on, how mentorship works here, and how we’ll support your growth from day one: [Watch the video] (Loom/YouTube link)

👋 About Riverstone Structures

At Riverstone Structures, we believe great engineers are built, not just born. For over 15 years, we’ve designed and delivered schools, mid-rise residential projects, and civic buildings across Central Texas. Our mission is simple: design safe, sustainable structures while investing in the people who make them possible. We’re a collaborative team of 25 engineers and technicians, and we’re excited to add a Junior Structural Engineer who’s eager to learn, grow, and help shape our city’s future.

🌟 What You’ll Be Doing

As a junior engineer, you’ll be working alongside licensed engineers to learn the ropes of real-world project delivery.

  • Assist with structural analysis and design calculations (steel, concrete, timber, masonry).

  • Draft construction documents and detail drawings in Revit under senior guidance.

  • Support site visits and field inspections with experienced engineers.

  • Research building codes and standards (IBC, ACI, AISC, NDS) and apply them to project tasks.

  • Participate in design coordination meetings and learn how architects, engineers, and contractors collaborate.

✅ What We’re Looking For

  • S. in Civil or Structural Engineering (EIT preferred but not required).

  • Strong foundation in structural mechanics and materials.

  • Familiarity with Revit or AutoCAD (coursework/project experience counts).

  • Enthusiastic learner with strong attention to detail.

  • Effective communicator who enjoys teamwork.

(If you don’t meet every qualification but are excited to start your career in structural engineering, we encourage you to apply!)

🩺 Benefits (Employee Coverage)

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (company contribution)

  • 401(k) with 3% company match

  • Paid parental leave

  • 15 days PTO + 8 company holidays

  • Paid exam fees and study materials for EIT & PE licensure

🎁 Perks (Culture & Growth)

  • Weekly one-on-one mentorship with licensed PE

  • $1,500 annual learning stipend for training, workshops, or conferences

  • Flexible work hours (core hours 9–3, with flex time around them)

  • Regular lunch-and-learns with senior staff

  • Team-building events (happy hours, site tours, volunteer days)

⭐ Why This Role Is a Great Fit

  • Learn by doing: You’ll get hands-on experience with real projects from the start, not just redlines.

  • Clear career path: We’ll support your journey from EIT to PE with structured mentorship.

  • Collaborative culture: Join a close-knit team where questions are encouraged and support is always available.

  • Impactful projects: Your designs will contribute to schools, housing, and civic buildings that directly serve the community.

🤝 Our Hiring Process (Respectful & Transparent)

  • Every application is reviewed by a human.

  • Response within 10 business days.

  • 1st round: friendly conversation + coursework/project discussion.

  • 2nd round: simple problem-solving exercise to see how you think, not just what you know.

  • Final: references + offer.

📥 How to Apply

Apply via Workscreen here: [Insert Workscreen link].
 Our process is straightforward and skill-based—we want to understand your strengths, not just what’s on your résumé.

Don’t let bad hires slow you down.

WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free. 

Breakdown of Why These Structural Engineer Job Posts Work

Both the Experienced and Entry-Level versions share a structure that makes them stand out from generic job ads. Here’s why they work:

1. Clear, Specific Titles

Instead of vague titles like “Engineer Needed”, the posts specify “Structural Engineer — Commercial & Infrastructure” or “Junior Structural Engineer — Training & Growth Opportunity.” Candidates know exactly what kind of role it is, what level of experience is required, and what projects they’ll work on.

2. Video Element Adds Personality

Each post starts with a short Loom/YouTube video from a hiring manager or senior engineer. This instantly humanizes your company, builds trust, and makes your job description stand out from the sea of text-only ads.

3. Human, Story-Driven Introductions

The “About Us” sections aren’t dry boilerplate. They tell a story about the company, highlight its project types, and explain its mission. This gives candidates context and makes the company feel real and relatable.

4. Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Tasks

Instead of bullet points that read like a checklist (“Perform calculations, attend meetings”), the responsibilities are framed in terms of impact—“make sure structures perform reliably over decades” or “your designs will contribute to schools and housing.” That’s what attracts motivated, thoughtful candidates.

5. Transparent Salary & Benefits

Both templates include salary ranges and benefits upfront. This builds trust, filters out mismatched candidates, and signals that your company values transparency. Top talent appreciates clarity.

6. Separation of Perks vs. Benefits vs. Role Fit

The posts clearly distinguish between:

  • Benefits: concrete items like health insurance, PTO, retirement match.

  • Perks: culture and growth extras like stipends, mentorship, flexible hours.

  • Why This Role Is a Great Fit: a compelling narrative about impact, autonomy, and career growth.

This layered approach makes the role both attractive and credible.

7. Respectful Hiring Process

Both ads explain the process, timeline, and expectations. No vague “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.” Candidates value clarity—and this respectful tone already sets your company apart.

8. Workscreen Integration Builds Credibility

Instead of saying “Apply by sending your CV to hr@company.com”, the posts integrate Workscreen. This not only shows you use modern, fair evaluation tools but also reassures candidates that they’ll be assessed on skills, not just credentials.

👉 Together, these elements ensure the posts do more than check boxes—they connect, inspire, and attract the right talent.

Example of a Bad Structural Engineer Job Description (And Why It Fails)

📌 Job Title: Structural Engineer
 💼 Type: Full-Time | Location: Dallas, TX

Job Summary

We are seeking a structural engineer to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for analyzing, designing, and reviewing structures. Candidate should ensure projects are completed on time and meet specifications.

Responsibilities

  • Perform structural calculations

  • Prepare technical reports

  • Coordinate with other departments

  • Ensure compliance with standards and codes

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil/Structural Engineering

  • 3–5 years of experience preferred

  • Knowledge of structural software

  • Good communication skills

How to Apply

Send your résumé and cover letter to hr@company.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short

  1. Generic Job Title
    Simply saying “Structural Engineer” is vague. It doesn’t specify what kind of projects (commercial, residential, bridges?) or level of experience (junior, senior, licensed?). It feels like the company doesn’t know exactly who they want.

  2. Cold, Lifeless Introduction
    The job summary is bland and doesn’t mention the company’s mission, culture, or what kind of work the candidate will actually be doing. There’s no story or hook to make it memorable.

  3. Responsibilities Too Broad
    “Perform calculations” and “prepare technical reports” could apply to almost any engineering job. There’s no sense of purpose, impact, or variety in the role.

  4. No Salary or Benefits
    Not mentioning compensation is a red flag for top talent. Serious candidates often skip over postings that hide this information—it signals a lack of transparency.

  5. No Culture, No Values
    There’s nothing here about what it’s like to work at the company—no team dynamics, growth opportunities, or workplace culture. For younger engineers especially, this is a dealbreaker.

  6. Dismissive Application Process
    “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels outdated and disrespectful. It signals that the company doesn’t value applicants’ time.

  7. Zero Personality in the CTA
    The “apply by sending a résumé” ending feels transactional. Compare that to posts that explain what candidates will experience in the process, offer clarity on timelines, and provide a fair evaluation system.

👉 This kind of job description may get applicants, but it won’t attract top structural engineering talent. The best candidates will skip it for roles that feel human, transparent, and inspiring.

Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out

Even a well-structured job description can be leveled up with small touches that show candidates you value their time, safety, and growth. Here are some extras you can add:

🔒 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice

Job scams are everywhere, and candidates are more cautious than ever. Adding a simple statement builds trust:

“We take the security and privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.”

This instantly reassures candidates that your process is safe and legitimate.

🌴 2. Mention Leave & Flex Days

Top candidates aren’t just looking for salary—they’re looking for balance. Adding a clear statement about leave makes your job post more attractive:

“Enjoy up to 20 PTO days plus 10 company holidays, along with flexible scheduling options so you can recharge and come back stronger.”

📚 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities

Ambitious engineers care about professional development. Whether it’s licensure support, conference budgets, or mentorship, highlight it:

“We cover PE exam fees and provide a $2,000 annual professional development stipend for training, conferences, or certifications.”

This shows you invest in your people long-term.

🎥 4. Add a Video From a Hiring Manager or Senior Engineer

Nothing differentiates your job post like a short Loom or YouTube video. Candidates love hearing directly from leaders about the role, the team, and what success looks like. It makes your company feel approachable and authentic.

Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4

🏗️ 5. Share Employee Testimonials or Reviews

Link to real Glassdoor reviews or share a quote from a current engineer:

“I joined Riverstone as an intern, and three years later, I’m managing my own projects. It’s a place where growth is real, not just a buzzword.”

This social proof helps candidates trust your brand.

👉 These small additions might feel optional, but they’re exactly the details that separate a generic job post from one that inspires high-quality applicants to hit ‘Apply.’

Should You Use AI to Write a Structural Engineer Job Description?

These days, it seems like every platform—job boards, ATS tools, even AI resume builders—offers a one-click way to generate job descriptions. And sure, it might feel like a time-saver. But here’s the problem: AI-generated posts are often generic, lifeless, and ineffective.

❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone

  • Generic filler: Without context, AI churns out the same bland “Responsibilities / Requirements” bullet points you’ve already seen a hundred times.

  • Wrong applicants: A vague, copy-paste description attracts candidates spraying out résumés, not those who are genuinely qualified and aligned with your role.

  • Brand risk: Remember—your job post is often the first impression someone gets of your company. If it looks like it was generated by a machine with zero personality, it reflects poorly on your culture.

✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI

AI isn’t the enemy—it’s a tool. The difference is in how you use it.
 Instead of typing “Write me a structural engineer job description” and pasting the output, give AI the raw ingredients.

Here’s how:

  1. Provide context about your company: mission, values, project types.

  2. Describe the role in your own words: what projects they’ll work on, what success looks like, and what kind of teammate you want.

  3. List the benefits and perks you actually offer: salary range, PTO, growth opportunities.

  4. Set the tone: do you want it to sound friendly, mission-driven, or technical?

Then prompt AI like this:

“Help me write a job description for our company, Riverstone Structures. We’re hiring a Junior Structural Engineer to support schools and civic projects in Austin, TX. Our culture is collaborative and growth-focused, and we want to attract candidates who value mentorship and public-impact projects. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes].  Please shape this into a conversational, engaging job post.”

This way, AI helps you polish tone, organize content, and improve clarity—without stripping away your company’s unique voice.

👉 Bottom line: AI should shape and polish your message, not create it from scratch.

Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.

WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.

Copy-Paste Structural Engineer Job Descriptions

We get it—sometimes you just need something fast. Maybe you’ve already read this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like, but you also want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor in just a few minutes.

That’s what this section is.

✏️ Important Reminder:
 Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
 This is a foundation, not a final draft.
 Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.

In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.

Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.

  • Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
  • Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.

✅ Option 1: Conversational / Culture-First Template

Job Title: Structural Engineer — Build Safe, Enduring Structures at [Company Name]
 💼 Location: [On-site/Hybrid/Remote] (HQ: [City, State])
 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
 💰 Salary Range: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year + [bonus/equity, if any]

🎥 Meet the Hiring Manager (2-minute video)

Hear what projects you’ll touch, how we collaborate, and what success looks like in your first 90 days: [Paste Loom/YouTube link]

👋 About [Company Name]

Founded in [Year], [Company Name] is a [size, e.g., 30-person] structural team delivering [project types—e.g., commercial buildings, bridges, schools, adaptive reuse] across [region/market]. We’re known for [e.g., pragmatic design, field responsiveness, and partnering well with architects/GCs]. If you love solving real-world constraints—budget, schedule, constructability—while keeping people safe, you’ll feel at home here.

🌟 What You’ll Do

  • Design and analyze [steel/concrete/PT/timber/masonry] systems for [project types].

  • Check load paths; perform wind/seismic design per [IBC/ASCE 7]; design foundations and lateral systems.

  • Review shop drawings, respond to RFIs, and resolve field issues during construction.

  • Coordinate with architects, owners, and GCs to balance safety, aesthetics, and cost.

  • Mentor juniors and contribute to QA/QC on calcs and deliverables.

  • Conduct site visits for condition assessments and special inspections [as needed].

✅ What We’re Looking For

  • S. in Civil/Structural Engineering (M.S. a plus).

  • [PE in State/Region] (or ability to obtain within [X] months).

  • [3–7]+ years delivering built projects.

  • Proficiency with [ETABS/SAP2000/RAM/RISA]; working knowledge of [Revit/BIM].

  • Strong command of [AISC 360, ACI 318, NDS, ASCE 7].

  • Clear communicator with a collaborative mindset.

🩺 Benefits (Employee Coverage)

  • Medical, dental, vision (company contribution)

  • [HSA/FSA options]

  • 401(k) with [X%] company match

  • Company-paid life & [STD/LTD]

  • Paid parental leave

  • [X] days PTO + [Y] company holidays

🎁 Perks (Culture & Growth)

  • Flexible [hybrid/flex hours/9-80] schedule

  • Licensure fees + PDHs covered; [exam prep support]

  • $[X,000] annual learning stipend (courses/conferences/books)

  • [Home office/commuter] stipend

  • Quarterly offsites & project site tours

  • 1 paid volunteer day per year

⭐ Why This Role Is a Great Fit

  • Impact you can see: Shape [city/region] spaces used daily by thousands.

  • Autonomy with support: Own packages with senior backing.

  • Field + desk balance: See your designs get built and close the loop.

  • Career ladder: Clear path to [Project Engineer → Project Manager → Associate].

🤝 Our Hiring Process (Respectful & Transparent)

  • Every application is reviewed by a human.

  • Response within [10–14] days.

  • 1st round: conversation + portfolio walk-through.

  • 2nd round: practical technical exercise [e.g., beam sizing/lateral check].

  • Final: references + offer.

📥 How to Apply

Apply via Workscreen: [Insert Workscreen link].
 You’ll complete a short, role-relevant evaluation so we understand your strengths and ensure a fair, skills-based process.

✅ Option 2: Structured / Quick-Reference Template

Job Title: Structural Engineer — [Discipline/Market Focus] at [Company Name]
 💼 Location: [On-site/Hybrid/Remote] (HQ: [City, State])
 🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
 💰 Salary Range: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year + [bonus/equity, if any]

Job Brief
 [Company Name] is hiring a Structural Engineer to design and deliver [project types—e.g., commercial, civic, bridges] across [region]. You’ll ensure safety, stability, and code compliance from concept through construction.

Responsibilities

  • Perform structural analysis and design for [materials: steel/concrete/timber/masonry]

  • Prepare calculations, specifications, and technical reports

  • Review drawings and shop submissions; respond to RFIs

  • Ensure compliance with [IBC/ASCE 7/AISC/ACI/NDS]

  • Collaborate with architects, contractors, and project managers

  • Support [site visits/inspections] as needed

Requirements

  • S. in Civil/Structural Engineering (M.S. preferred)

  • [PE in State/Region] (or EIT with plan to obtain PE by [Year])

  • [X]+ years relevant design experience

  • Proficiency with [ETABS/SAP2000/RAM/RISA] and [Revit/AutoCAD]

  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills

Compensation & Benefits

  • Salary: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year + [performance bonus]

  • Health, dental, vision insurance; [HSA/FSA]

  • 401(k) with [X%] match

  • [X] days PTO + [Y] holidays

  • Licensure support & $[X,000] annual training stipend

How to Apply
 Apply via Workscreen: [Insert Workscreen link].

After the Job Post: Let Workscreen Handle the Next Step

Writing a great job post is only half the battle. Once applications start rolling in, you still need to quickly identify who’s worth interviewing and who’s just sending out résumés. That’s where Workscreen.io makes your life easier.

With Workscreen, you can:

  • Quickly spot your most promising candidates

WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.

  • Assess real skills, not just résumés

With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.

  • Filter out low-effort applicants

WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.

  • Save hours on manual review

 Instead of sorting through stacks of résumés, you focus only on qualified candidates who have proven their ability.

👉 In short: you write the great job post, Workscreen does the heavy lifting.

Together, you’ll attract better talent, move faster, and avoid costly hiring mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions - Structural Engineer Job Descriptions

Beyond technical expertise, the best structural engineers combine analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills. Core technical skills include structural analysis, materials knowledge (steel, concrete, timber, masonry), and proficiency with design software like ETABS, SAP2000, or RISA. But just as important are soft skills: clear communication, teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to balance safety, budget, and design constraints in real-world projects.

Salaries vary by location, experience, and industry sector. In the U.S., the average base salary for structural engineers ranges from $70,000 to $100,000 per year, with entry-level engineers earning closer to $60,000–$70,000, and senior engineers with PE licensure often

exceeding $110,000–$130,000, especially in major cities or specialized sectors like bridges or seismic design.

Civil engineering is a broad discipline covering roads, water systems, transportation, and infrastructure as a whole. Structural engineering is a sub-discipline of civil engineering, focused specifically on the design, stability, and safety of load-bearing structures like buildings, bridges, and towers. In short: civil engineers oversee the bigger picture, while structural engineers ensure the structures within that picture are safe and reliable.

Yes—while entry-level engineers often start with an EIT (Engineer-in-Training) certification, career progression almost always requires obtaining a PE (Professional Engineer) license. A PE license allows engineers to sign off on drawings, take legal responsibility for designs, and advance into leadership or client-facing roles.

 

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Author’s Details

Mike K.

Mike is an expert in hiring with a passion for building high-performing teams that deliver results. He specializes in streamlining recruitment processes, making it easy for businesses to identify and secure top talent. Dedicated to innovation and efficiency, Mike leverages his expertise to empower organizations to hire with confidence and drive sustainable growth.

Hire Easy. Hire Right. Hire Fast.

Stop wasting time on unqualified candidates. WorkScreen.io streamlines your hiring process, helping you identify top talent quickly and confidently. With automated evaluations , applicant rankings and 1-click skill tests, you’ll save time, avoid bad hires, and build a team that delivers results.

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