Junior Designer - Structural Engineering

som; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

SOM seeks a civil/structural engineer to contribute to interdisciplinary projects across architecture, engineering and planning. The role emphasizes collaboration, precision and timely delivery on design development and construction documents.

Responsibilities include assisting in solving engineering problems, coordinating details, performing structural analysis, and reviewing shop drawings while aligning with project goals and client expectations. This is a hands-on role in a dynamic firm.

Qualifications

• Recent B.S. in Civil Engineering or B.Eng; Master’s in Structural Engineering a plus.
• Strong collaborative ability and teamwork.
• Limited experience in structural analysis, drafting and design development.
• General knowledge of materials, detailing, construction techniques and codes.
• Initiative, problem solving, and high attention to precision and accuracy within deadlines.
• Effective written, oral and visual communication.
• Basic knowledge of computational and FEM tools.

Responsibilities

• Assist in preparation of solutions to general and engineering problems.
• Check and coordinate details and dimensions under supervision.
• Perform structural analysis and design under supervision.
• Assist in preparation of design and construction documents.
• Provide independent drafting work related to project areas.
• Review shop drawings and product submittals for conformance with structural documents.
• Handle workload to meet project deadlines and commitments under supervision.
• Generate ideas under direction for review and selection by others.

Skills

Structural analysis

Drafting

Design development

Collaborative ability

Communication skills

FEM tools

Education

B.S. in Civil Engineering or B.Eng

M.S. in Structural Engineering (a plus)

Tools

Computational tools

FEM software

Job description

At SOM, we are a collective committed to shaping a better future for our clients, communities and planet. We aspire to create the most sustainable, impactful work through creative, interdisciplinary teams with all the resources and diversity of a global firm. We value those who are passionate about excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusivity, and collaboration. Together we can achieve great things.

Success at SOM Means

• Ideas: We believe in a meritocracy of ideas. We look to everyone to actively contribute to the discourse in the firm.
• Knowledge: We believe that expertise is the result of lifelong learning. We are not expected to know everything, but rather to passionately pursue answers, develop new skills and deepen our knowledge.
• Product: We strive for excellence in the concept, quality, and delivery of our work.
• Individual: We value individuals who bring the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in the way they work. Each person can develop and contribute their wealth of attributes, skills and knowledge to support the overall health of the firm.
• Team: We value the power of interdisciplinary integration. A positive team culture in which everyone collaborates openly towards common goals is essential.
• Firm: We have a history of making transformative contributions to the profession and our communities. We are constantly innovating and attempting to bring new approaches, solutions and processes to our work.

Position Responsibilities

• Assists in preparation of solutions to general and engineering problems.
• Checks and coordinates details and dimensions under supervision.
• Performs structural analysis and design under supervision.
• Assists in preparation of design and construction documents.
• Provides independent general drafting work relating to specific areas of project.
• Reviews shop drawing and product submittals for general conformance with the structural engineering documents.
• Handles a reasonable workload to meet project tasks deadlines and commitments under regular direction from the supervisor.
• Generates ideas under direction relative to the task in hand for review and selection by others.

Minimum Qualifications

• Recent completion of B.S. in Civil Engineering or B.Eng required; Master's degree in Structural Engineering a plus.
• Strong collaborative ability.
• Limited experience in structural analysis, drafting, and design development.
• Demonstrates general knowledge of materials, detailing and construction techniques related to structural engineering principles, and codes.
• Exhibits initiative, problem solving, and a high attention to precision and accuracy at a task specific level.
• Able to follow instructions on timelines of deliverables, seeks guidance when needed, escalates appropriately if needed.
• Effectively communicates internally through timely and appropriate written, oral, and visual means.
• Possesses basic knowledge of computational and FEM tools for daily use on project design.

Our Benefits

• Health and Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life & accident insurance.
• Savings: 401K matching, pre‑tax spending accounts, and employee discount programs.
• Work/Life Balance: Hybrid/Flexible schedules, paid family leave, paid vacation, backup child and elder care, and an employee assistance program.
• Professional Development: Reimbursement for professional licenses, associated renewals, and exam fees as well as specialized in‑house career development.

Compensation for this role is based upon experience, qualifications, location, and education and typically ranges from $65,000 - $70,000.

Our Culture

Our creative, interdisciplinary teams work like small, dynamic studios, with all the resources and diversity of a global firm. Here, you'll collaborate with industry experts on some of the most exciting and transformative architecture, engineering, and planning projects in the world.

We believe an inclusive environment improves our teams, our firm, and our communities and are passionate about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Our DEI Action Plan was created to bring meaningful change to our profession, starting with our own culture and practices.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

For more about SOM: www.som.com