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Structural Engineer Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

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Last updated 16 July 2025
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A structural engineer applies mathematical and physical laws to analyse the statical properties of various structures. Their duties include testing material behaviour and durability, designing and supervising the construction of structures, and determining whether materials and structures are able to withstand environmental pressures and stresses.

Structural engineer duties and responsibilities

A structural engineer’s duties and responsibilities usually comprise the following:

  • Surveying building sites to determine suitability for the planned construction
  • Applying principles of maths and physics to design structures and determine suitable construction methods
  • Preparing technical drawings using specialised software
  • Assessing materials and already-erected structures to determine their ability to withstand loads and environmental influences
  • Supervising the construction process to ensure all requirements are met

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Structural Engineer Job Description Examples:

Example 1

We are Proview Scaffolding a leading Australian scaffold company dedicated to providing top-tier scaffold solutions. We are currently seeking an in-house Structural Engineer to join our dynamic team.

As a Structural Engineer, you will play a critical role in designing, analysing, and overseeing the construction of scaffold structures to ensure safety, stability, and compliance with industry standards and regulations. You'll collaborate closely with project managers, construction teams, and other stakeholders to ensure successful project execution.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Develop scaffold designs that meet project requirements, considering load capacity, access points, and environmental factors.
  • Calculate and analyse loads, stresses, and structural stability of scaffold components and connections.
  • Select appropriate materials and specify scaffold components based on strength, durability, and safety criteria.
  • Ensure compliance with relevant safety regulations, codes, and standards.
  • Conduct site visits to inspect scaffold installations and address any issues during construction.
  • Create detailed engineering documentation including drawings, reports, and specifications.
  • Troubleshoot design and construction challenges and propose effective solutions.

    Qualifications and Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in design and structural engineering.
  • Proficiency in engineering software/tools for structural analysis and design.
  • Strong understanding of Australian safety regulations and industry standards.

    If you are an innovative and dedicated Structural Engineer looking to make a significant impact in the scaffold industry, we want to hear from you!

    To apply please follow the prompts, or email CV to [website]

    Job Type: Full-time

    Salary: $120,000.00 $140,000.00 per year



    Work Authorisation:
  • Australia Location: In person

    • Example 2

    Demlakian Consulting Engineers is a leading, multi-disciplinary engineering firm which specialises in the design and delivery of intelligent engineering, strata and remedial solutions. We work with local and international clients in the commercial, industrial, institutional, civic and residential sectors.

    We are currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced Structural Engineer to join our team. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to work on exciting projects, collaborate with industry experts, and develop your skills and knowledge.

    This is a full time, permanent position and is available for an immediate start (will wait for notice periods as required). To learn more about our organisation visit our website ([website])

    Responsibilities:

  • Carry out structural design calculations
  • Complete markups for draftsmen and the checking of completed drawings
  • Carry out site inspections of structural works
  • Effectively liaise with clients, architect s, builders, and other consultants

    Successful applicants will have to demonstrate:

  • Minimum 3 years experience in Structural Engineering
  • Proven Australian experience in Structural Design
  • Degree in Engineering
  • Experience in RAPT / Slabs / Space Gas is advantageous
  • Strong skills in reading and interpreting drawings
  • Ability to work efficiently, accurately, and independently to meet deadlines
  • Presentable and confident to attend client meetings
  • Outstanding communication skills, both written and verbal

    We offer a competitive salary package and a supportive work environment. As part of our commitment to our team's well-being, we organise monthly staff barbecues, wine club events, and other social team building exercises. Our close-knit team works on a variety of projects ranging from small domestic to large residential and beyond, providing you with a diverse and challenging work experience.

    Salary Range:- Attractive base salary, dependent on experience level
    Location:- Crows Nest
    Position Type:- Permanent Full Time, Full Working Rights required

    Job Types: Full-time, Permanent



    Application Question(s):
  • What is your approximate travel time to Crows Nest?

    Work Authorisation:
  • Australia Location: In person

    • Example 3

    NGS Structural Engineers – Brisbane PTY LTD

    Junior Structural Engineer

    · Permanent full-time position

    · 38 hours per week

    · Pinkenba, QLD, 4009

    · $70,000 - $85,000 per year + superannuation

    This is a full-time role for a Junior Structural Engineer at NGS Structural Engineers. As a Junior Structural Engineer, you will be responsible for performing calculations, conducting structural analysis, and applying structural engineering principles under the supervision of Senior Engineers. You will also collaborate with our team and assist with computer-aided design tasks.

    This is a great opportunity for the right person to take their Structural Design skills to the next level and work with a dynamic cohesive team of engineering specialists supported by an amazing in-house team of professionals.

    The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 2-3 year experience in the engineering/construction industry and is a self-motivated and open to learn individual who can manage a project with appropriate guidance and can also undertake site inspections.

    We offer attractive remuneration packages, flexible work options and equip you with all the tools and ongoing training needed to develop your skills as a Structural Engineer.

    Responsibilities include but are not limited to

    - Conducting detailed structural analysis of various types of structures, using both manual calculations and computer-aided design tools, to ensure their stability and safety under the supervision of Senior Engineers.

    - Measure loads and pressures caused by environmental or human influence.

    - Assisting in the preparation of detailed structural engineering drawings.

    - Choose appropriate materials based on structural specifications and needs under the supervision of experienced Engineers.

    - Undertake site inspections assisting in the oversight of the construction process, ensuring that all structures are built according to design and meet all safety and quality standards.

    Qualifications

    - Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering or related field

    - Full working rights in Australia

    - Background in calculations, structural analysis, and structural engineering.

    - Knowledge of construction methods and regulations

    - Knowledge of civil engineering principles

    - Knowledge of geotechnical engineering principles

    - Experience with computer-aided design software (Revit, AutoCAD, SpaceGass)

    - Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail

    - Ability to work well in a team environment.

    - Strong written and verbal communication skills

    By working directly under an experienced engineer, you will receive exposure to all areas of the engineering industry from design through to construction. The job will be full-time, with working hours between 8.30am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday.

    You must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident at the time of submitting your application to be considered for this role.

    To apply, please forward your CV, covering letter, and a copy of your latest academic transcript to [website]

    Job Type: Full-time

    Pay: $70,000.00 – $80,000.00 per year

    Benefits:
  • Salary packaging
    Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday



    Work Authorisation:
  • Australia (Required)


    Work Location: In person


    Application Deadline: Start Date: 01/08/2024

    • Example 4

    At Kehoe Myers, we bring a broad vision to our work and provide smart, innovative solutions to our clients. Our reputation for managing complex projects means our team are expert problem-solvers, creating lasting value.

    This is an opportunity to work with a well-established engineering practice with a strong reputation in delivering quality services throughout Australia and overseas. We deliver world class commercial, industrial and institutional projects ranging from airports and business park precincts through to hotels, shopping centres, hospitals and schools. Pathways to share ownership also exist.

    Here's what our team say about us . Kehoe Myers is a very social bunch , I m always learning' with great people , Thumbs up team culture !

    About Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia:

    Professionals are voting with their feet and moving to Toowoomba! Toowoomba held the greatest appeal for regional movers in the last 12 months to March 2023, according to the RAI Regional Movers Index. It's a place where you can build a fulfilling career and enjoy a remarkable quality of life in a welcoming, garden city.

    Toowoomba is a prosperous inland city located 90 kms West of Brisbane, high on the Great Dividing Range with a temperate climate. It is Australia's second largest inland city, second only to Canberra. Toowoomba's vibrant and booming economy continues to grow upon a diverse, shock-proof industry base, and a thriving art, music and food culture. We are perfectly positioned with easy driving to the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. Toowoomba is well-known for its exceptional schools, its affordable house prices, its natural beauty and is a great place to raise a family.

    On the engineering front, Toowoomba and the Darling Downs and South-West is a thriving region. It is earmarked within the Southern Energy Zone in the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan for at least $9.9B in electricity infrastructure alone, including massive renewables projects for completion by 2040. Notwithstanding our nation-wide clients, the Toowoomba region alone has over $18.8B of major projects in the investment pipeline, 77% of these projects are underway or approved awaiting commencement. This is more than a 3-fold increase in only 2 years, highlighting the confidence that both the private and public sector have in the future of Toowoomba. Be a part of building this exciting future!

    Lastly, Toowoomba prides itself on its strong sense of community and the supportive professional networks available to engineers. The city hosts various industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities, enabling you to connect with like-minded individuals, share knowledge, and build lasting professional relationships. Come and experience the abundant opportunities and the undeniable charm that Toowoomba and the KM team has to offer. Your future, in our team, as a senior structural engineer awaits!

    The Successful Applicant:

    Duties will include structural engineering, site inspections and report writing. The successful applicant will possess:

  • Bachelor Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering;
  • Minimum 5 years relevant experience in Consulting Engineering;
  • Experience with site inspections;
  • Exceptional report writing skills;
  • Experience in design of concrete, steel, fibre composites and timber;
  • A proactive attitude and self-management of time;
  • Excellent communication skills and leadership qualities;
  • Driver s License.

    We are looking for someone who is committed, motivated, energetic, reliable and likes to eat cake! We take birthdays and morning teas very seriously. The successful person will also have a commitment to growth and personal development, great time management and organisational skills, and can work collaboratively and independently.

    About Kehoe Myers Consulting Engineers:

    We are a market leader in the Professional Consulting Engineering industry. We specialise in Civil, Structural and Hydraulic Engineering. We've delivered high profile projects, including Airports, Shopping Centres, Hospitals and Education facilities. We also work in fibre composites and the emerging renewable energy.

    Kehoe Myers provides you with support to help you develop your career, maintain work-life balance and wellbeing, and strengthen your relationships within the community. We delight in having a diverse team with international experience. With a team of over 30 personnel, enjoy many a birthday celebration!

    Direct applicants will only be considered. No third parties.

    All applications treated confidentially. Salary Package Negotiable based on experience with the Position Description to be made available to suitable applicants. [website]

    Job Type: Full-time

    Salary: $80,000.00 $100,000.00 per year

    Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift



    Ability to commute/relocate:
  • Toowoomba CITY, QLD 4350: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)

    Application Question(s):
  • What expert level experience do you have on CAD software?

    Experience:
  • Structural Design Engineering: 3 years Location: In person
    • Our mission

    Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

    Read our editorial guidelines

    What does a structural engineer do?

    Structural engineering is a specialisation of civil engineering. A structural engineer uses their knowledge of mathematical concepts and physical laws to help create structurally-sound buildings for clients. Their focus is on the suitability of materials used and the ground on which the building is to be erected, always with safety in mind.

    Structural engineers typically start their work by inspecting a site, performing calculations and running analyses. Next, they create technical drawings or structural plans and write reports. Their job also involves supervising projects on building sites to ensure their plans are followed.

    Structural engineer skills and qualifications

    A successful structural engineer should have the following skills and aptitudes:

    • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
    • Mathematical aptitude and good at physics
    • Good IT skills
    • An interest in buildings and their construction
    • Good technical drawing skills
    • Excellent organisational skills to handle different project stages

    Structural engineer experience requirements

    Many companies require a structural engineer to have several years of work experience. Some university programs offer engineering students the opportunity to gain practical work experience alongside their studies. This work experience always has to be supervised and monitored by an experienced structural engineer.

    Some states, like Queensland, require at least four years of work experience after a structural engineer has completed their degree before they can register as a practising engineer in the state. Again, it’s worth checking local requirements here, as they may differ from state to state.

    Structural engineer education and training requirements

    A four-year Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or in Engineering with a Major in Civil Engineering is a must, and postgraduate studies leading to a qualification as a professional engineer, such as a Master’s of Professional Engineering, are desirable and pursued by many structural engineers.

    Registration is required in some jurisdictions: New South Wales, the Northern Territory, Queensland, Tasmania and Victoria currently require structural engineers to register in certain circumstances, but it’s always important to check government websites for up-to-date requirements in each state or territory.

    In addition, Engineers Australia maintains a voluntary National Engineering Register that a structural engineer might want to register with. Although this is optional, it is highly recommended.

    Structural engineer salary expectations

    According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a structural engineer is $106,861 per year. Structural engineer salaries are fairly homogenous and in the six-figure range between $100,000 and $125,000 across all cities and states. Some private companies may choose to offer higher rates to attract the right candidates.

    Job description samples for similar positions

    There are several roles that are similar to that of a structural engineer. Take a look to see if you need to hire one of these workers instead of a structural engineer for your site:

    Structural engineer job description FAQs

    What’s the difference between a structural engineer and an architect?

    Both structural engineers and architects are involved in building design and need similar skills, but their roles are different. Architects focus heavily on creative elements and aesthetic details to turn the client’s vision into reality using computer-aided drawings, and they provide estimates and a project timeline.

    Structural engineers, on the other hand, are more focused on inspecting the materials used and assessing the structures and their resilience to ensure health and safety. They also create technical drawings and give budget estimates but are more concerned with analysing materials and reviewing test data.

    What does a good structural engineer need to know?

    First of all, a structural engineer must have an in-depth understanding of maths and physics to do their job well. When analysing materials, structural engineers also need to be familiar with the properties of different types of materials, including their tensile strength, density and bending strength. A keen interest in buildings, how they work and the characteristics of various potential building materials is definitely a plus.

    Is working as a structural engineer stressful?

    Structural engineers are concerned with people’s safety and ensuring that the constructions they oversee are sturdy and safe to use for many years to come. This involves a great deal of responsibility because the lives of the buildings’ users depend on the structural engineer having done their job correctly. This can involve a lot of pressure, and structural engineers need to be comfortable with that level of responsibility when performing their job.

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