What does an entry-level structural engineer do?

Question

Roger Raber · Accepted Answer

Entry-level structural engineers are responsible for many of the same tasks as their senior counterparts, including creating drawings and making field visits. Supervised completion of these tasks provides valuable experience to junior structural engineers.

A structural engineer new to the industry reports to senior engineers, project leaders, and management. Experienced staff assigns junior engineers tasks necessary to the completion of the project while critiquing their work. Designing plans using AutoCAD and making field visits to review construction are important skills developed on the job.

In addition to design tasks, entry-level structural engineers participate in meetings with clients and contractors, write proposals, and learn the specific building codes for their region. After approximately five years of supervised work, most entry-level engineers achieve senior engineer status and are able to lead teams and oversee project designs.