Structural Designer role in AEC — architecture engineering construction
AEC Career Library

Structural Designer: Role Overview, Responsibilities & 2025 Salary Data

Structural Designers support licensed engineers in the design and documentation of structural systems. They prepare detailed drawings, perform analysis under supervision, and ensure construction documents accurately reflect the engineering intent.

What Does a Structural Designer Do?

Structural Designers support licensed engineers in the design and documentation of structural systems. They prepare detailed drawings, perform analysis under supervision, and ensure construction documents accurately reflect the engineering intent.

What Does a Structural Designer Responsible For?

  • Produce structural drawings using Revit Structure or AutoCAD
  • Assist with structural analysis under PE supervision
  • Develop details for steel, concrete, and wood framing systems
  • Coordinate structural drawings with architectural and MEP sets
  • Process RFIs and respond to contractor questions
  • Maintain drawing standards and file organization
  • Support project engineers during construction administration
  • Perform quantity takeoffs and calculations

Structural Designer Qualifications & Requirements

Technical Skills

  • 2-7 years of structural drafting or design experience
  • Proficiency in Revit Structure and/or AutoCAD
  • Basic knowledge of structural analysis concepts
  • Ability to read and interpret engineer's sketches
  • Familiarity with IBC and structural codes

Professional Competencies

  • Detail-oriented and technically precise
  • Collaborative and receptive to feedback
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Proactive communicator
  • Motivated toward professional growth and licensure

Education & Certifications

Education:

Bachelor's or Associate's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or Architectural Engineering Technology

Certifications:

EIT registration a plus

Preferred Qualifications

  • +Experience on commercial or industrial structural projects
  • +Knowledge of structural steel detailing
  • +Revit Structure proficiency with family creation experience

Structural Designer Market Outlook

Path to Structural Engineer

Structural Designers advance to full engineering roles upon obtaining EIT and PE licensure.

Typical Career Progression:

1
Structural Engineer EIT
2
Project Engineer
3
Structural Engineer PE
4
Senior Structural Engineer

Structural Designer Salary Ranges (2025)

$60,000 - $90,000

Entry Level: $52,000 - $68,000

Mid Level: $68,000 - $88,000

Senior Level: $88,000 - $110,000

Salaries vary by experience, location, company size, and specialization.

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