Structural Engineer Visa Sponsorship Jobs in California
California's structural engineering market spans seismic retrofitting, infrastructure megaprojects, and commercial development, with major employers including AECOM, Thornton Tomasetti, Arup, and Jacobs Engineering. Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Jose concentrate the most sponsorship activity, driven by ongoing transit expansion, high-rise construction, and earthquake-resilience programs across the state.
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Specific information regarding this recruitment process is listed below. Please note that this job announcement was amended on 9/10/2026 to revise the Minimum Qualification language. If you have already submitted an application, you do not need to reapply. This is a Position-Based Test conducted in accordance with CSC Rule 111A.
Application Opening: Friday, September 4, 2026
Application Deadline: Apply immediately. Application filing will be open at least through 11:59pm (PST) of Thursday, September 17, 2026, and will close any time thereafter.
Compensation Range: $193,000 - $235,534 annually
Recruitment ID: PBT-5218-166719; RTF0166718-01119801
Appointment Type: Permanent Civil Service
The current position is located at the San Francisco Department of Public Works. The eligible list resulting from this examination may be utilized for future positions in this class in other City departments. San Francisco Public Works (SF Public Works) is recruiting to fill the position of Structural Engineer (5218 Structural Engineer). San Francisco Public Works (Public Works) has a far-reaching portfolio with a $453 million annual operating budget, an active capital portfolio that exceeds $3 billion and a workforce of 1,700-plus employees. The department operates around the clock, touching every neighborhood in San Francisco. The staff designs and manages the construction of civic buildings and streets; cleans and greens the right of way; maintains civic buildings; manages multi-million-dollar bond programs; trains people for jobs; keeps the right of way free of hazards; paves the roads; repairs bridges and public stairways; expands accessibility; and works at the forefront addressing some of San Francisco’s biggest challenges. With a mission to enhance the quality of life in San Francisco for residents, visitors and business owners, Public Works is committed to providing outstanding public service through an equity lens.
Job Description
Please note that incumbents in this classification may be required to perform duties as listed in the class specification, which can be found on DHR’s website: https://careers.sf.gov/classifications/.
Under general direction, the Structural Engineer performs professional structural engineering work in the field and office; supervises and manages professional and technical engineering staff, consultants, and other related staff engaged in engineering projects; prepares plans, specifications, and construction estimates for new construction and alteration of existing structures; and acts as the structural engineer-of-record for projects.
The essential duties of the Structural Engineer include but are not limited to:
- Preparing engineering designs, analysis, calculations, drawings, and specifications to ensure compliance with codes, standards, and project requirements for new construction and alteration of existing structures using various materials including concrete, steel, masonry, light gauge steel, and wood.
- Providing construction administration, including review of contractor submittals and requests for information, development of supplemental information, and performance of structural observation.
- Preparing engineering studies and reports for a wide variety of projects, including seismic evaluation of existing buildings, and design criteria documents.
- Directing and supervising professional and technical engineering personnel, including consultants, in the preparation of engineering studies, reports, designs, calculations, cost estimates, specifications, and contract documents for a wide variety of projects.
- Performing field investigations of landslides, structural failures, potential hazards, and complex structural problems and preparing recommendations.
- Conducting meetings and making presentations to staff, committees, boards, commissions, approval agencies, and the general public.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- EDUCATION: Possession of a baccalaureate degree or graduate degree with major coursework in civil engineering from an accredited college or university.
- EXPERIENCE: Six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in engineering design, estimating, specification preparations and building construction or inspection, including two (2) years of responsible supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
- LICENSE: Possession of a Structural Engineer (SE) license issued from the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists.
VERIFICATION:
Every application is reviewed to ensure that you meet the minimum qualifications as listed in the job ad. Review SF Careers Employment Applications for considerations taken when reviewing applications. Please make sure your application is complete and demonstrates how you meet the minimum qualifications. Applicants may be required to submit verification of qualifying education and experience at any point during the recruitment and selection process. More information can be found at: https://sfdhr.org/information-about-hiring-process#verification. If education verification is required, information on how to verify education requirements, including verifying foreign education credits or degree equivalency, can be found at https://careers.sf.gov/knowledge/experience-education/. All work experience, education, training and other information substantiating how you meet the minimum qualifications must be included on your application by the filing deadline. Information submitted after the filing deadline will not be considered in determining whether you meet the minimum qualifications.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed City and County of San Francisco application.
Note: Any misrepresentation or falsification of one's education, training, or work experience, or attempted deception on the application, may result in disqualification for this and future job opportunities with the City and County of San Francisco.
Selection Procedure/Examination Requirements
After application submission, candidates deemed qualified must complete all subsequent steps to advance in this selection process, which includes the following:
Supplemental Questionnaire Exam (Weight: 100%)
Candidates deemed qualified will be sent a Supplemental Questionnaire that must be completed by the set date. Candidates will be evaluated on their relevant knowledge, skills, and ability levels in job-related areas. Note: A passing score must be achieved on the Supplemental Questionnaire to be placed/ranked on the Eligible List.
- The Department of Public Works reserves the right to modify the selection process and examination to conform to administrative or operational necessity. The information in this announcement is subject to change and will be accompanied by a notice of amendment in this announcement.
Eligible List/Score Report:
A confidential eligible list of applicant names that have passed the civil service examination process will be created and used for certification purposes only. An examination score report will be established, so applicants can view the ranks, final scores and number of eligible candidates. Applicant information, including names of applicants on the eligible list, shall not be made public unless required by law. However, an eligible list shall be made available for public inspection, upon request, once the eligible list is exhausted or expired and referrals resolved. The eligible list/score report resulting from this civil service examination process is subject to change after adoption (e.g., as a result of appeals), as directed by the Human Resources Director or the Civil Service Commission. Once you pass the exam, you will be placed on an eligible list and given a score and a rank.
The duration of the eligible list will be one (1) year and may be extended with the approval of the Human Resources Director. To find Departments which use this classification, please see the city’s Position Counts by Job Codes and Departments.
Certification:
The certification rule for the eligible list resulting from this exam will be the “Rule of the List.”
Post-Eligible List:
Candidates will be invited to interview based on test scores and experience that most closely matches the responsibilities of the position determined from a review of the application materials.
Terms of Announcement and Appeal Rights:
Applicants must be guided solely by the provisions of this announcement, including requirements, time periods and other particulars, except when superseded by federal, state or local laws, rules or regulations. Clerical errors may be corrected by the posting the correction on the Department of Human Resources website at https://careers.sf.gov/. The terms of this announcement may be appealed under Civil Service Rule 111A.35.1. The standard for the review of such appeals is ‘abuse of discretion’ or ‘no rational basis’ for establishing the position description, the minimum qualifications and/or the certification rule. Appeals must include a written statement of the item(s) being contested and the specific reason(s) why the cited item(s) constitute(s) abuse of discretion by the Human Resources Director. Appeals must be submitted directly to the Executive Officer of the Civil Service Commission within five business days of the announcement issuance date.
Additional Information
Additional Information Regarding Employment with the City and County of San Francisco:
- Information About the Hiring Process
- Conviction History
- Employee Benefits Overview
- Equal Employment Opportunity
- Disaster Service Worker
- ADA Accommodation
- Veterans Preference
- Right to Work
- Copies of Application Documents
- Diversity Statement
Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
At the City and County of San Francisco, we share a commitment to a diverse, inclusive and equitable community. Each member of our organization is responsible and accountable for what they say and do to make San Francisco an inclusive and equitable place to live and work by employing fair and just practices to and for all.
Where to Apply
All job applications for the City and County of San Francisco must be submitted through our online portal. Please visit https://careers.sf.gov/ to begin your application process. Computers are available for the public (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday) to file online applications in the lobby of the Dept. of Human Resources at 1 South Van Ness Avenue, 4th Floor and at the City Career Center at City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 110. Ensure your application information is accurate, as changes may not be possible after submission. Your first and last name must match your legal ID for verification, and preferred names can be included in parentheses. Use your personal email address, not a shared or work email, to avoid unfixable issues. Applicants will receive a confirmation email from notification@smartrecruiters.com that their online application has been received in response to every announcement for which they file. Applicants should retain this confirmation email for their records.
Failure to receive this email means that the online application was not submitted or received. If you have any questions regarding this recruitment or application process, please contact the Analyst, Tara Stevens, at tara.stevens@sfdpw.org. The City and County of San Francisco encourages women, minorities and persons with disabilities to apply. Applicants will be considered regardless of their sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition (associated with cancer, a history of cancer, or genetic characteristics), HIV/AIDS status, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected category under the law.
Company Description
Specific information regarding this recruitment process is listed below. Please note that this job announcement was amended on 9/10/2026 to revise the Minimum Qualification language. If you have already submitted an application, you do not need to reapply. This is a Position-Based Test conducted in accordance with CSC Rule 111A.
Application Opening: Friday, September 4, 2026
Application Deadline: Apply immediately. Application filing will be open at least through 11:59pm (PST) of Thursday, September 17, 2026, and will close any time thereafter.
Compensation Range: $193,000 - $235,534 annually
Recruitment ID: PBT-5218-166719; RTF0166718-01119801
Appointment Type: Permanent Civil Service
The current position is located at the San Francisco Department of Public Works. The eligible list resulting from this examination may be utilized for future positions in this class in other City departments. San Francisco Public Works (SF Public Works) is recruiting to fill the position of Structural Engineer (5218 Structural Engineer). San Francisco Public Works (Public Works) has a far-reaching portfolio with a $453 million annual operating budget, an active capital portfolio that exceeds $3 billion and a workforce of 1,700-plus employees. The department operates around the clock, touching every neighborhood in San Francisco. The staff designs and manages the construction of civic buildings and streets; cleans and greens the right of way; maintains civic buildings; manages multi-million-dollar bond programs; trains people for jobs; keeps the right of way free of hazards; paves the roads; repairs bridges and public stairways; expands accessibility; and works at the forefront addressing some of San Francisco’s biggest challenges. With a mission to enhance the quality of life in San Francisco for residents, visitors and business owners, Public Works is committed to providing outstanding public service through an equity lens.
Job Description
Please note that incumbents in this classification may be required to perform duties as listed in the class specification, which can be found on DHR’s website: https://careers.sf.gov/classifications/.
Under general direction, the Structural Engineer performs professional structural engineering work in the field and office; supervises and manages professional and technical engineering staff, consultants, and other related staff engaged in engineering projects; prepares plans, specifications, and construction estimates for new construction and alteration of existing structures; and acts as the structural engineer-of-record for projects.
The essential duties of the Structural Engineer include but are not limited to:
- Preparing engineering designs, analysis, calculations, drawings, and specifications to ensure compliance with codes, standards, and project requirements for new construction and alteration of existing structures using various materials including concrete, steel, masonry, light gauge steel, and wood.
- Providing construction administration, including review of contractor submittals and requests for information, development of supplemental information, and performance of structural observation.
- Preparing engineering studies and reports for a wide variety of projects, including seismic evaluation of existing buildings, and design criteria documents.
- Directing and supervising professional and technical engineering personnel, including consultants, in the preparation of engineering studies, reports, designs, calculations, cost estimates, specifications, and contract documents for a wide variety of projects.
- Performing field investigations of landslides, structural failures, potential hazards, and complex structural problems and preparing recommendations.
- Conducting meetings and making presentations to staff, committees, boards, commissions, approval agencies, and the general public.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- EDUCATION: Possession of a baccalaureate degree or graduate degree with major coursework in civil engineering from an accredited college or university.
- EXPERIENCE: Six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in engineering design, estimating, specification preparations and building construction or inspection, including two (2) years of responsible supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
- LICENSE: Possession of a Structural Engineer (SE) license issued from the California Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists.
VERIFICATION:
Every application is reviewed to ensure that you meet the minimum qualifications as listed in the job ad. Review SF Careers Employment Applications for considerations taken when reviewing applications. Please make sure your application is complete and demonstrates how you meet the minimum qualifications. Applicants may be required to submit verification of qualifying education and experience at any point during the recruitment and selection process. More information can be found at: https://sfdhr.org/information-about-hiring-process#verification. If education verification is required, information on how to verify education requirements, including verifying foreign education credits or degree equivalency, can be found at https://careers.sf.gov/knowledge/experience-education/. All work experience, education, training and other information substantiating how you meet the minimum qualifications must be included on your application by the filing deadline. Information submitted after the filing deadline will not be considered in determining whether you meet the minimum qualifications.
Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of a completed City and County of San Francisco application.
Note: Any misrepresentation or falsification of one's education, training, or work experience, or attempted deception on the application, may result in disqualification for this and future job opportunities with the City and County of San Francisco.
Selection Procedure/Examination Requirements
After application submission, candidates deemed qualified must complete all subsequent steps to advance in this selection process, which includes the following:
Supplemental Questionnaire Exam (Weight: 100%)
Candidates deemed qualified will be sent a Supplemental Questionnaire that must be completed by the set date. Candidates will be evaluated on their relevant knowledge, skills, and ability levels in job-related areas. Note: A passing score must be achieved on the Supplemental Questionnaire to be placed/ranked on the Eligible List.
- The Department of Public Works reserves the right to modify the selection process and examination to conform to administrative or operational necessity. The information in this announcement is subject to change and will be accompanied by a notice of amendment in this announcement.
Eligible List/Score Report:
A confidential eligible list of applicant names that have passed the civil service examination process will be created and used for certification purposes only. An examination score report will be established, so applicants can view the ranks, final scores and number of eligible candidates. Applicant information, including names of applicants on the eligible list, shall not be made public unless required by law. However, an eligible list shall be made available for public inspection, upon request, once the eligible list is exhausted or expired and referrals resolved. The eligible list/score report resulting from this civil service examination process is subject to change after adoption (e.g., as a result of appeals), as directed by the Human Resources Director or the Civil Service Commission. Once you pass the exam, you will be placed on an eligible list and given a score and a rank.
The duration of the eligible list will be one (1) year and may be extended with the approval of the Human Resources Director. To find Departments which use this classification, please see the city’s Position Counts by Job Codes and Departments.
Certification:
The certification rule for the eligible list resulting from this exam will be the “Rule of the List.”
Post-Eligible List:
Candidates will be invited to interview based on test scores and experience that most closely matches the responsibilities of the position determined from a review of the application materials.
Terms of Announcement and Appeal Rights:
Applicants must be guided solely by the provisions of this announcement, including requirements, time periods and other particulars, except when superseded by federal, state or local laws, rules or regulations. Clerical errors may be corrected by the posting the correction on the Department of Human Resources website at https://careers.sf.gov/. The terms of this announcement may be appealed under Civil Service Rule 111A.35.1. The standard for the review of such appeals is ‘abuse of discretion’ or ‘no rational basis’ for establishing the position description, the minimum qualifications and/or the certification rule. Appeals must include a written statement of the item(s) being contested and the specific reason(s) why the cited item(s) constitute(s) abuse of discretion by the Human Resources Director. Appeals must be submitted directly to the Executive Officer of the Civil Service Commission within five business days of the announcement issuance date.
Additional Information
Additional Information Regarding Employment with the City and County of San Francisco:
- Information About the Hiring Process
- Conviction History
- Employee Benefits Overview
- Equal Employment Opportunity
- Disaster Service Worker
- ADA Accommodation
- Veterans Preference
- Right to Work
- Copies of Application Documents
- Diversity Statement
Statement on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
At the City and County of San Francisco, we share a commitment to a diverse, inclusive and equitable community. Each member of our organization is responsible and accountable for what they say and do to make San Francisco an inclusive and equitable place to live and work by employing fair and just practices to and for all.
Where to Apply
All job applications for the City and County of San Francisco must be submitted through our online portal. Please visit https://careers.sf.gov/ to begin your application process. Computers are available for the public (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday) to file online applications in the lobby of the Dept. of Human Resources at 1 South Van Ness Avenue, 4th Floor and at the City Career Center at City Hall, 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Room 110. Ensure your application information is accurate, as changes may not be possible after submission. Your first and last name must match your legal ID for verification, and preferred names can be included in parentheses. Use your personal email address, not a shared or work email, to avoid unfixable issues. Applicants will receive a confirmation email from notification@smartrecruiters.com that their online application has been received in response to every announcement for which they file. Applicants should retain this confirmation email for their records.
Failure to receive this email means that the online application was not submitted or received. If you have any questions regarding this recruitment or application process, please contact the Analyst, Tara Stevens, at tara.stevens@sfdpw.org. The City and County of San Francisco encourages women, minorities and persons with disabilities to apply. Applicants will be considered regardless of their sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition (associated with cancer, a history of cancer, or genetic characteristics), HIV/AIDS status, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected category under the law.
Structural Engineer Job Roles in California
See all 647+ Structural Engineer Jobs in California
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Search Structural Engineer Jobs in CaliforniaStructural Engineer Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies sponsor visas for structural engineers in California?
Large engineering and construction firms are the most consistent sponsors for structural engineers in California. AECOM, Arup, Thornton Tomasetti, Jacobs Engineering, and WSP Global have each filed Labor Condition Applications for structural engineering roles in the state. Public agencies and large infrastructure contractors tied to programs like the California High-Speed Rail project also appear in Department of Labor disclosure data as recurring sponsors.
Which visa types are most common for structural engineer roles in California?
The H-1B visa is the most common visa for structural engineers in California, as the role typically qualifies as a specialty occupation requiring at least a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering. Australian citizens may also qualify for the E-3 visa, which has no lottery and is available year-round. Canadian and Mexican engineers sometimes enter under TN visa status, which lists civil engineering as a qualifying profession.
Which cities in California have the most structural engineer sponsorship jobs?
Los Angeles and San Francisco account for the largest share of structural engineering sponsorship activity in California. Los Angeles draws demand from transit expansion, seismic retrofit mandates, and high-rise development. San Francisco and the broader Bay Area generate openings through tech campus construction and strict seismic codes. San Diego has a secondary cluster tied to defense infrastructure and life sciences facility construction.
How to find structural engineer visa sponsorship jobs in California?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international candidates seeking visa sponsorship, and you can filter directly by role and state to find structural engineer openings in California. Unlike general job boards, Migrate Mate surfaces employers with active sponsorship histories, so you spend less time filtering out companies that won't sponsor. Checking listings regularly matters, as infrastructure and design firms in California post openings on rolling timelines tied to project awards.
Are there state-specific considerations for structural engineers seeking sponsorship in California?
California's seismic environment means employers commonly seek candidates with experience in ASCE 7, CBC (California Building Code), and performance-based seismic design, which can strengthen a sponsorship case by demonstrating specialized knowledge. California also enforces its own prevailing wage standards on public works projects, meaning sponsored roles tied to state or local government contracts must meet both federal LCA wage requirements and California's own wage determinations. PE licensure from another state requires California-specific reciprocity steps.
What is the prevailing wage for sponsored structural engineer jobs in California?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.