Structural Engineer – Field-Based- not stuck behind a desk all day

Location: Based in the Chicago, Illinois metro area (with regular regional travel)

Compensation: $90,000 - $120,000 base salary + ~$16,000 vehicle/fuel allowance + 9%–13% target bonus

Are you a seasoned structural engineer looking to apply your skills in the field rather than behind a desk?

Our client, a respected and growing structural engineering firm, is seeking a senior-level Structural Engineer to support their field operations and technical assessments throughout the region. This is a unique opportunity to join a technically driven team focused on delivering high-quality solutions for complex structural challenges—primarily in parking garages and similar concrete structures.

What You’ll Do:

• Conduct structural inspections, assessments, and evaluations—focusing on parking structures, concrete systems, and other complex structural environments.
• Diagnose infrastructure issues using standard and advanced evaluation techniques.
• Gather detailed condition data in the field and contribute to the development of repair recommendations and design solutions.
• Operate independently with a high level of autonomy in both planning and problem-solving.
• Serve as a technical expert and liaison for clients and internal teams during complex project phases.
• Travel regionally as needed for inspections and assessments (no overnight travel required).

What We're Looking For:

• Licensed PE: Active Professional Engineering (PE) license in at least one U.S. state with ability to obtain additional licensure as required.
• Experience: Minimum of 5–7 years in structural engineering, with strong knowledge of inspection and failure assessment practices.
• Technical Acumen: Expertise in concrete structures and structural diagnostics. Experience with condition assessments and deterioration mechanisms is highly valued.
• Self-Starter: Able to manage your own schedule, priorities, and communication in a largely autonomous work environment.
• Key Traits: Resilient, collaborative, proactive, and comfortable communicating technical findings clearly with clients and team members.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Additional background in materials science or concrete technology.
• Experience with non-destructive testing (NDT) tools such as ground-penetrating radar.
• Background in smaller, agile structural engineering consulting environments.

What’s in It for You:

• Base Salary: $110,000 – $130,000 annually
• Vehicle & Fuel Allowance: Approximately $16,000 annually
• Bonus Structure: Target incentive bonus of 9% of base salary, with potential to earn up to 13% based on performance
• Benefits Package: Comprehensive benefits offered by our client, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement contributions

This is an ideal fit for structural engineers based in the Chicago metro area who enjoy working hands-on in the field, solving real-world engineering problems, and collaborating with a respected team of experts. If you're ready for a high-impact role with autonomy and technical challenge, we want to hear from you.