As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for an Entry Level Structural Engineer in the United States is $74,201 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $36.
However, an Entry Level Structural Engineer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Entry Level Structural Engineer's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Entry Level Structural Engineer's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level Structural Engineer | 0-2 years | $74,147 |
| Engineer, Experienced - Structural Engineering | 2-4 years | $87,234 |
| Senior Structural Engineer | 4-7 years | $105,824 |
| Specialist Structural Engineer | 7+ years | $123,936 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Entry Level Structural Engineers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 16.94% |
| Engineering Services | 1.63% |
| Business Development | 1.1% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Renewable Energy
|
$79,395 |
7%
|
|
Presentation
|
$78,653 |
6%
|
|
Business Development
|
$77,911 |
5%
|
|
Project Management
|
$77,169 |
4%
|
|
Coordination
|
$77,169 |
4%
|
|
Interpersonal Communication
|
$77,169 |
4%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Entry Level Structural Engineers enter the field with a Bachelor's Degree degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for an Entry Level Structural Engineer with a Bachelor's Degree is between $67,991 and $74,371).
Entry Level Structural Engineer Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 0.4% |
| High School | 0.4% |
| Associates | 1.0% |
| Bachelors | 42.6% |
| Masters | 51.4% |
| Doctorate | 4.6% |
Understanding how an Entry Level Structural Engineer's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Entry Level Structural Engineer, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Infrastructure Engineer II | $90,290 | 22% |
| Engineer, Experienced - Structural Engineering | $87,300 | 18% |
| Engineer, Experienced - Transportation | $87,300 | 18% |
Salaries for an Entry Level Structural Engineer can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $74,708 in 2023 to around $73,331 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Entry Level Structural Engineer salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $74,708 |
| 2024 | $73,779 |
| 2025 | $73,331 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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The demand for structural engineers in the USA is strong, driven by ongoing infrastructure projects and construction activities. Entry-level structural engineers can expect salaries ranging from $61,401 to $79,301, with a median salary of $74,701. This reflects the growing need for skilled professionals in the field.
Salary negotiation is a valuable skill for entry-level candidates to exercise. While asking for more money can feel uncomfortable, it can lead to a gratifying payoff. For an entry-level structural engineer, salaries typically range from $61,401 to $79,301, with a midpoint of $74,701. Overcoming discomfort in negotiation can result in higher pay for your skills and hard work.
The average salary for an entry-level structural engineer in the US ranges from $61,401 to $79,301, with a midpoint of $74,701. This reflects the typical earnings for those just starting in the field, differing from the higher average for fresher IT engineers, which is around $96,402.
The salary for an entry-level structural engineer in the US typically ranges from $61,401 to $79,301 annually. The average salary is around $74,701, reflecting a competitive starting point for fresh graduates in the engineering field.
Entry-level structural engineers in the USA typically earn between $61,401 and $79,301 annually, with a median salary of around $74,701. This range reflects the starting salaries for those new to the field, providing a solid foundation for career growth in engineering.
A good entry-level salary for a Structural Engineer in the USA ranges from $61,401 to $79,301 annually, with a median salary of $74,701. This reflects the competitive nature of the field, offering a solid starting point for new graduates.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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