Structural Designer Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Structural designers create detailed plans and specifications for buildings, bridges, and infrastructure projects. Most H-1B visa positions require a bachelor's degree in structural engineering, civil engineering, or closely related field. Engineering roles typically qualify as specialty occupations, making visa sponsorship more straightforward for employers.
Find Structural Designer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 97+ Structural Designer jobs
See all 97+ Structural Designer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Structural Designer roles.
Get Access To All JobsDescription
The Senior Structural Designer will lead various phases of planning, site evaluations, and preparation of proposal and construction documentation and structural plans as part of a project team. This position will work on various projects with a diverse portfolio of project types and clients.
- Lead the preparation of 3D models and detailed construction drawings for steel and reinforced concrete structures using structural specifications, engineering calculations, sketches, detailed drawings, and design information according to project standards and procedures.
- Lead a full range of drawing production work including problem analysis, design layout and calculations on non-routine assignments of substantial variety and complexity.
- Lead design on a variety of projects pertaining to power generation clients ranging from facility modifications to new facilities.
- Quality review 2D drafting and 3D modeling tasks. Design will be prepared using engineering standards and procedures.
- Lead a variety of assignments using prescribed methods and standard techniques including drawing sequence and presentation, sizing various system components and refining rough sketches.
- Responsible for quality review of structural designs or sketches and redlines or mark-ups on ongoing projects.
- Prepare structural calculations. Quality review design codes and specifications related to structural design requirements.
- Design and draft structural elements and details.
- Review design drawings within scope, budget and schedule.
- Incorporate schedules, budgets and project criteria into structural design and layouts.
- Approve all revisions of project drawings, plot files and project-related information in a logical and well-structured manner.
- Train, mentor, and develop less experienced drafting, detailing and design staff members.
- Participate in marketing and client development meetings.
- Responsible for the structural design QA/QC process.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Complies with all policies and standards.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in drafting technology or related field and 13 years related experience required or Associate Degree and 14 years related experience required or 15 years progressive detailing and design experience required.
- Advanced understanding of design software such as: Tekla Structures, AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, and Excel to develop the design deliverables. Experience with Tekla Structures is preferred.
- Expert knowledge in design, calculations and design systems.
- Expert knowledge in the theory and practices of structural discipline; competent in the fundamental concepts of other disciplines as they relate to the assigned discipline; and capable of operating related discipline design software necessary to execute production tasks.
- Ability to work collaboratively with others (Project Managers, Engineers and Designers) in a multi-discipline project team environment to resolve design or drawing issues as appropriate and to accomplish objectives.
- Excellent written & verbal communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
Compensation
$135,000.00-195,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. Burns & McDonnell’s PTO program includes the paid sick leave entitlements provided under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA). Additionally, as part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Computer Aided Drafting & Design
Primary Location US-MO-Kansas City
Other Locations US-CO-Denver, US-IL-Chicago
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 5 % of the Time
Req ID: 264790
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-JJ #PWR
Description
The Senior Structural Designer will lead various phases of planning, site evaluations, and preparation of proposal and construction documentation and structural plans as part of a project team. This position will work on various projects with a diverse portfolio of project types and clients.
- Lead the preparation of 3D models and detailed construction drawings for steel and reinforced concrete structures using structural specifications, engineering calculations, sketches, detailed drawings, and design information according to project standards and procedures.
- Lead a full range of drawing production work including problem analysis, design layout and calculations on non-routine assignments of substantial variety and complexity.
- Lead design on a variety of projects pertaining to power generation clients ranging from facility modifications to new facilities.
- Quality review 2D drafting and 3D modeling tasks. Design will be prepared using engineering standards and procedures.
- Lead a variety of assignments using prescribed methods and standard techniques including drawing sequence and presentation, sizing various system components and refining rough sketches.
- Responsible for quality review of structural designs or sketches and redlines or mark-ups on ongoing projects.
- Prepare structural calculations. Quality review design codes and specifications related to structural design requirements.
- Design and draft structural elements and details.
- Review design drawings within scope, budget and schedule.
- Incorporate schedules, budgets and project criteria into structural design and layouts.
- Approve all revisions of project drawings, plot files and project-related information in a logical and well-structured manner.
- Train, mentor, and develop less experienced drafting, detailing and design staff members.
- Participate in marketing and client development meetings.
- Responsible for the structural design QA/QC process.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Complies with all policies and standards.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in drafting technology or related field and 13 years related experience required or Associate Degree and 14 years related experience required or 15 years progressive detailing and design experience required.
- Advanced understanding of design software such as: Tekla Structures, AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, and Excel to develop the design deliverables. Experience with Tekla Structures is preferred.
- Expert knowledge in design, calculations and design systems.
- Expert knowledge in the theory and practices of structural discipline; competent in the fundamental concepts of other disciplines as they relate to the assigned discipline; and capable of operating related discipline design software necessary to execute production tasks.
- Ability to work collaboratively with others (Project Managers, Engineers and Designers) in a multi-discipline project team environment to resolve design or drawing issues as appropriate and to accomplish objectives.
- Excellent written & verbal communication skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.
Compensation
$135,000.00-195,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. Burns & McDonnell’s PTO program includes the paid sick leave entitlements provided under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act (HFWA). Additionally, as part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Computer Aided Drafting & Design
Primary Location US-MO-Kansas City
Other Locations US-CO-Denver, US-IL-Chicago
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 5 % of the Time
Req ID: 264790
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-JJ #PWR
See all 97+ Structural Designer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Structural Designer roles.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Structural Designer
Target engineering consulting firms and construction companies
Large firms like AECOM, Jacobs, and Stantec regularly sponsor H-1B visas for structural designers. Mid-sized regional firms also sponsor but may have less experience with the process.
Emphasize your structural engineering degree alignment
USCIS requires the degree to match the role. A structural or civil engineering degree clearly supports H-1B petitions for structural designer positions, unlike general engineering degrees.
Highlight specialized software proficiency
Experience with ETABS, SAP2000, STAAD Pro, or Revit Structure demonstrates the specialized knowledge requirement. Include specific project types where you used these tools professionally.
Consider states with major infrastructure projects
States like California, Texas, and New York have ongoing bridge and building projects requiring structural designers. Government contracts often create steady demand for sponsored positions.
Prepare detailed project portfolio documentation
Document your role in designing specific structures with technical drawings, load calculations, and code compliance work. This supports the specialty occupation argument during USCIS review.
Research the employer's previous LCA filings
Check the Department of Labor's disclosure data to see if potential employers have filed LCAs for structural designers before. Previous filings indicate sponsorship willingness and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do structural designers qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship?
Yes, structural designer roles typically qualify as specialty occupations requiring a bachelor's degree in structural engineering, civil engineering, or related field. The technical nature of structural design work clearly meets USCIS specialty occupation requirements, making H-1B visa approval rates favorable for properly documented cases.
How to find Structural Designer jobs with visa sponsorship?
Start by using Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international professionals with visa-sponsored positions. Focus on construction firms, engineering consultancies, and infrastructure companies that commonly hire Structural Designers on H-1B, TN visa, or O-1 visas. Target employers with established sponsorship programs and highlight your expertise in structural analysis software like ETABS or SAP2000 to stand out.
What degree do I need for structural designer H-1B sponsorship?
You need a bachelor's degree in structural engineering, civil engineering, or closely related engineering field. Architecture degrees may qualify if coursework includes structural analysis and design. Three years of structural design experience can substitute for one year of education under the 3-for-1 rule.
Can structural designers get green cards through employment?
Yes, structural designers can pursue EB-2 or EB-3 green cards. Most qualify for EB-2 with a master's degree or EB-3 with a bachelor's degree. The PERM labor certification process typically takes 12-18 months, followed by I-140 petition filing for permanent residence.
Do I need a PE license for structural designer visa sponsorship?
A Professional Engineer license isn't required for H-1B sponsorship as a structural designer, but it strengthens your case. Many entry-level positions don't require PE licensure. However, PE licensure demonstrates advanced expertise and can support higher prevailing wage determinations.
Which companies commonly sponsor structural designers for work visas?
Large engineering consulting firms like AECOM, Jacobs, WSP, and Thornton Tomasetti regularly sponsor H-1B visas for structural designers. Construction companies, architectural firms with in-house structural departments, and government contractors also provide sponsorship opportunities depending on project needs.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Structural Designer jobs?
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.