Entry Level Structural Designer Jobs
New grad structural designer jobs are open to recent graduates and entry level candidates with zero to two years of experience, where a strong portfolio or internship work can matter more than a long resume. Most openings are on-site roles across Consulting & Professional Services, Manufacturing, and Construction & Real Estate, with employers like HDR, Panelmatic, and La-Z-Boy hiring at this level now.
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INTRODUCTION
Within SSOE's Tool Install division, we specialize in the design and engineering of complex process equipment across semiconductor fabs and advanced manufacturing facilities. Our structural team plays a critical role in ensuring that every tool installation is built on a foundation of precision, safety, and technical excellence, from equipment support structures and seismic bracing to subfab framing and cleanroom modifications. Our structural designers work together with multi-discipline teams including mechanical, electrical, and process engineers to deliver fully integrated, installation-ready designs that meet our client’s and industry standards.
The Structural Designer supports the planning and delivery of complex process equipment installations in semiconductor fabrication facilities, helping translate equipment and facility requirements into clear, constructible structural design packages. This role prepares and coordinates layouts, calculations, and details for tool support structures, subfab racks, lateral supports, embeds, platforms, and related facility modifications while working closely with project managers, structural and mechanical discipline leads. The designer evaluates loads, access, tolerances, and installation constraints, incorporates safety and code requirements, and helps manage design changes through review and approval gates. Strong attention to detail, coordination, and responsiveness are essential to support successful design execution, field installation, and startup.
AI and Innovation:
At SSOE, we don’t just talk about the future, we build it. As a leader in industry AI adoption, we empower our team to work smarter by providing responsible access to the industry leading AI Large Language Models, vibe-coding platforms, and securely integrating advanced tools into every role. From day one, you’ll receive the training and support needed to leverage AI as a core tool for enhancing productivity, sparking creativity, and streamlining complex workflows.
Responsibilities:
- Develop structural design deliverables for process tool installation projects, including layouts, plans, sections, details, and supporting documentation for tool supports, racks, platforms, embeds, and associated facility modifications.
- Coordinate with mechanical, electrical, and architectural disciplines to align structural design with equipment footprints, utility routing, seismic and support requirements, access clearances, and installation sequencing.
- Perform or support structural calculations for equipment loads, point loads, anchorage, support framing, and other project-specific design conditions, ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and client criteria.
- Prepare design packages from concept through construction issue, incorporating constructability, maintainability, access, and safety considerations for cleanroom, subfab, and support spaces.
- Review vendor equipment data, installation requirements, and interface documents to identify design impacts, resolve conflicts, and confirm structural support needs.
- Participate in design reviews, model reviews, and coordination meetings with internal teams, clients, and contractors to support scope alignment, design quality, and schedule execution.
- Support QA/QC processes by checking drawings, calculations, and models for accuracy, completeness, code compliance, and consistency across disciplines.
- Track and incorporate design changes, field conditions, and client comments through formal change control and revision management processes.
- Help identify project risks related to structural support, schedule, constructability, or field installation and communicate mitigation needs to project leadership.
- Maintain clear and professional communication with clients, contractors, and internal stakeholders to support smooth coordination and timely issue resolution.
- Contribute to a culture of safety by incorporating safe access, installation sequencing, and fieldwork considerations into design decisions and project reviews.
QUALIFICATIONS
- High school diploma or GED is required. An Associate’s degree-tracked in Structural or Civil engineering technology is preferred.
- Experience in structural design or drafting, preferably in an industrial, semiconductor, or advanced manufacturing environment.
- Experience with structural design software such as RISA, RAM, or similar platforms is a plus.
- Proficiency with AutoCAD and Revit, with the ability to produce coordinated, construction-ready structural documents.
- Ability to conduct field verifications and site assessments to identify, verify, resolve, and integrate solutions into design packages, troubleshooting design issues during construction as necessary.
- Experience with or exposure to semiconductor fab environments, cleanroom construction, or process equipment installation is a strong plus.
- Strong attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple deliverables in a schedule-driven project environment.
- Ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines and communicate clearly with engineers, project managers, and contractors.
- Ability to mentor junior team members or support peer review processes as project needs require.
COMPENSATION:
- Salary Range: $50,000 - $100,000/year depending on location, education, depth of relevant experience, and any specialized licensure/certifications. Opportunity for ample rewards, leadership incentive components, and generous bonus opportunities.
BENEFITS:
Includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, 401K retirement savings plan (with company matching), opportunities for professional development and training (including support for relevant licensure & certifications), and generous PTO & paid holidays.
Join us at SSOE, where your expertise will thrive in a dynamic, collaborative environment dedicated to pushing the boundaries of design and engineering excellence. If you're passionate about innovation and eager to make a significant impact, we invite you to apply and become a part of our forward-thinking team.
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Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services
- Manufacturing
- Construction & Real Estate
Entry Level Structural Designer Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get an entry level structural designer job?
Focus on building a portfolio that shows your drafting, load analysis, or CAD work, even from coursework or internships. Employers hiring at this level look for foundational knowledge of structural systems, familiarity with software like AutoCAD or Revit, and a degree in civil or structural engineering. Internship experience or a capstone project that mirrors real project work gives candidates a clear edge.
Which companies hire entry level structural designers?
Companies hiring entry level structural designers right now include HDR, Panelmatic, and La-Z-Boy, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. Engineering consultancies, construction firms, and infrastructure contractors tend to hire most actively at this level, often bringing on new graduates through project-based teams.
Are there remote entry level structural designer jobs?
Yes, though most openings at this level lean on-site due to hands-on project and team learning requirements. About 50% of entry level structural designer openings are remote or hybrid as of September 2026, so candidates who need flexibility should filter specifically for those listings when searching.
Are these new grad structural designer jobs?
Yes, these listings include new grad, recent graduate, and junior structural designer roles. A new grad-friendly posting typically welcomes zero to two years of experience and treats internships, co-op placements, or a strong academic portfolio as qualifying background. If a listing does not require prior professional experience, it is generally accessible to candidates coming directly from school.
Which industries hire the most entry level structural designers?
Entry Level structural designer roles concentrate in Consulting & Professional Services, Manufacturing, and Construction & Real Estate, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of September 2026. Those sectors generate consistent demand for junior designers because project volume and infrastructure investment require a steady pipeline of early-career talent to support senior engineers.