Structural Engineer

Structural Engineer

At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That's why we're committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career – and they'll receive great total rewards along the way.

Founded in 1975, Salas O'Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow's requirements are today's opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary: Performs structural engineering design and analysis for moderately complex projects with increasing independence. Develops calculations, models, drawings, specifications, and technical documents while coordinating with project teams and other disciplines. Applies sound engineering judgment, reviews work for quality, and supports project delivery from concept through construction. This role requires excellent written and verbal communication skills, including direct experience communicating results with clients.

Reporting Structure: This position reports to the Department Manager.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Perform structural analysis and design of steel, concrete, masonry, and other structural systems.
2. Develop structural calculations, design criteria, details, drawings, and specifications.
3. Build and maintain structural analysis and design models using appropriate engineering software.
4. Apply applicable building codes, standards, and company design practices to engineering work.
5. Coordinate structural designs with architects, engineers, and other project disciplines.
6. Assist with field investigations, site visits, and evaluation of existing structures.
7. Review structural drawings, calculations, and submittals for accuracy and completeness.
8. Prepare technical reports, engineering studies, and other project documentation.
9. Communicate technical information effectively with project teams, clients, and contractors.

• Identify design issues and develop practical engineering solutions with appropriate guidance.
• Support project managers and senior engineers in meeting project scope, schedule, budget, and quality requirements.
• Provide technical guidance and mentoring to less experienced engineers and designers as appropriate.
• Continue developing technical knowledge, design skills, and familiarity with industry standards and software.

Required Qualifications:

Education & Experience

1. Minimum Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering with a focus on Structures.
2. Minimum of 5 years of experience in the design of industrial, power generation and commercial facilities and structures.
3. Licensed Professional Engineer (PE), Structural Engineer (SE) preferred.

Technical & Professional Skills

1. Proficient in Structural Analysis and Design Software (RISA suite preferred).
2. Proficient with Microsoft Office.
3. Proficient with AutoCAD and Revit (desired).

Core Competencies

1. Structural Analysis & Design – Ability to analyze and design common structural systems using sound engineering principles.
2. Engineering Fundamentals – Strong understanding of structural behavior, load paths, and basic engineering mechanics.
3. Code Knowledge – Working knowledge of applicable building codes and standards, including IBC, ASCE 7, AISC, ACI, and related standards.
4. Technical Problem Solving – Ability to identify structural issues and develop practical, constructible solutions.
5. Engineering Software – Proficiency with structural analysis, design, drafting, and modeling software.
6. Engineering Documentation – Ability to produce clear, accurate calculations, drawings, specifications, and technical reports.

• Attention to Detail – Consistently checks work for accuracy, completeness, and constructability.
• Multidiscipline Coordination – Effectively coordinates structural work with architectural, mechanical, electrical, civil, and process disciplines.
• Communication – Clearly communicates technical information verbally and in writing to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Independent Work – Able to complete assigned engineering tasks with limited direction and knows when to seek additional guidance.
• Teamwork & Collaboration – Works effectively with project teams and contributes to a positive team environment.
• Project Awareness – Understands the relationship between technical decisions, project scope, schedule, budget, and client needs.
• Field Investigation – Capable of performing field observations, measurements, and evaluations of existing structural conditions.
• Quality Control – Understands and applies checking procedures to ensure accurate and reliable deliverables.
• Professional Development – Demonstrates initiative in expanding technical knowledge, industry experience, and professional capabilities.

Performance Metrics

1. Quality and accuracy of engineering calculations, drawings, and specifications
2. Timeliness of assigned task completion within project deadlines
3. Effectiveness of technical documentation
4. Client satisfaction with communication and delivered results
5. Successful completion of site assessments and audits
6. Ability to work Independently
7. Project Coordination

Behaviors

1. Customer Focus – Demonstrates an understanding of client needs in industrial environments and delivers technical solutions that emphasize safety, reliability, compliance, and long-term value.
2. Passion for Growth – Continuously develops technical, industry, and consulting skills to support personal effectiveness and firm growth
3. Leadership Impact – Influences project outcomes through sound engineering/technical judgment, professionalism, and accountability
4. Communication – Clearly communicates technical information, project status, issues, recommendations, etc. to clients and internal stakeholders
5. Ownership – Takes responsibility for quality, schedule, and deliverables within assigned work scope
6. Act With Urgency – Demonstrates a proactive sense of urgency in addressing client needs, project issues, and commitments while maintaining safety and quality standards
7. Teamwork – Works collaboratively across disciplines to deliver integrated and collaborative technical solutions
8. Technical Excellence – Applies solid engineering/technical fundamentals, codes, standards, and best practices to projects
9. Functional Excellence – Executes work processes efficiently using tools, systems, and methodologies

Location: Cincinnati, OH or Hammond, IN

Travel: Travel may be required to support customer site visits.

Working Hours/Environment

1. Hours average 40 per week; may require additional hours including evenings and weekends depending on business needs.
2. Hybrid work Schedule.
3. Work is typically performed in an indoor office setting/client site.

Physical Demands

1. Frequently required to sit at a desk/workstation for long periods of time.
2. Ability to work at a computer terminal for extended periods of time.
3. Light lifting up to 20 lbs.
4. Ability to speak to and hear employees/clients via phone or in person.
5. Body motor skills sufficient to enable the incumbent to move around an office environment.
6. Ability to analyze unique situations and develop appropriate responses.
7. Ability to climb ladders and perform field investigations.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature, complexity, and level of work to be performed by employees assigned to this position, and is not construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. It does not prescribe or restrict the work that may be assigned, and is subject to change at the discretion of the company.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement Salas O'Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment