Entry Level Structural Engineer Job Chicago area,Illinois USA,Engineering

As GFT continues to grow and expand, we are seeking an emerging Entry Level
Structural Engineer to support our Buildings & Places group in our Chicago, IL office. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring a minimum 3 days of onsite office attendance.

At GFT
, the structural team is dedicated to creating efficient, innovative solutions for structural systems, ensuring comfort and sustainability in every project. From energy-efficient power systems to advanced HVAC and plumbing designs, our team contributes to a resilient and sustainable built environment, pushing the boundaries of building system design and optimizing performance while addressing the unique needs of each facility. Explore some of our signature projects.

What

you’ll be challenged to do:

As an Entry-Level Structural Engineer, you will support the design and analysis of structural systems across a wide range of building types and markets. You’ll work on multidisciplinary teams, receive mentorship from seasoned engineers, and contribute to the successful delivery of technically sound and sustainable solutions.

December 2026 graduates are encouraged to apply!

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

Perform structural analysis and calculations with guidance from senior engineers.
Assist in the development of construction documents using Revit.
Participate in design coordination with internal and external project teams.
Support field investigations and site inspections.
Review structural submittals and respond to RFIs during construction phase.
Stay current with industry trends and software through professional development.

What you’ll bring to our firm:

Bachelor's degree from an ABET-accredited Civil or Architectural Engineering program, with a focus in Structural Engineering.
0–3 years of experience in structural engineering.
Demonstrated interest in structural engineering through internships, past work experiences, or applied academic projects.
Basic understanding of or willingness to learn Revit.
Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc...).
Written and verbal communication skills.
Able to work independently and collaboratively in team settings.
Self-motivated, energetic, organized, with a strong drive to excel and learn.
Capable of field inspection activities such as climbing ladders, hiking, and lifting 25 lbs.

What we prefer you bring:

Master’s degree from an ABET-accredited Civil or Architectural Engineering program, with a focus on Structural Engineering

Compensation:

The salary range for this role is $80,000 - $100,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Sponsorship is not being offered for this position

Featured Benefits:

Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience,…