Lead Structural Engineer - Bridges

CME Associates; Aurora (IL); On-site; USD 110,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Fehr Graham is seeking a Lead Structural Engineer to join our expanding transportation and structural engineering practice. You will shape the future of our structural team, lead project delivery, mentor staff, and support strategic growth across markets.

The role focuses on bridge design and inspection, collaboration with multiple disciplines, and delivering infrastructure projects in alignment with DOT standards and industry codes. Leadership and client relationship skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in bridge and structural design.
• PE or SE licensure, with ability to obtain licensure in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin as needed.
• Demonstrated experience designing steel and reinforced concrete structures.
• Strong understanding of bridge inspection methodologies, transportation infrastructure, and applicable design standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead bridge inspection, analysis, rehabilitation, and design projects for public and private sector clients.
• Manage and oversee the preparation of structural calculations, plans, specifications, and construction documents.
• Provide technical leadership and quality assurance for structural engineering projects.
• Grow, mentor, and develop the structural engineering team through coaching and knowledge sharing.
• Collaborate closely with transportation, civil, and environmental teams to deliver integrated project solutions.
• Support business development efforts, client relationship management, and project pursuits.
• Ensure compliance with applicable DOT standards, design codes, and industry best practices.

Skills

Bridge design

Structural analysis

Project leadership

Mentoring

Quality assurance

Education

PE/SE licensure

Bachelor's degree in Civil or Structural Engineering

Job description

About The Opportunity

Fehr Graham, a growing Midwest engineering and environmental consulting firm, is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking

About The Opportunity

Fehr Graham, a growing Midwest engineering and environmental consulting firm, is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Lead Structural Engineer to join our expanding transportation and structural engineering practice. We are looking for a leader who can help shape the future of our structural engineering team, drive project excellence, mentor staff, and support strategic growth initiatives. The ideal candidate combines strong bridge design and inspection expertise with a passion for leadership, collaboration, and innovation. As a key member of our team, you will play a critical role in delivering impactful infrastructure projects while helping expand our bridge and structural engineering services across new markets.

Why Join Fehr Graham?

At Fehr Graham, we foster a collaborative culture where technical excellence, professional development, and work-life balance are equally valued. You'll have the opportunity to lead challenging and meaningful projects that enhance transportation infrastructure and strengthen the communities we serve.

Your Primary Responsibilities Will Include

As the Lead Structural Engineer, you will be responsible for both technical project delivery and team leadership.

Responsibilities Include

• Lead bridge inspection, analysis, rehabilitation, and design projects for public and private sector clients.
• Manage and oversee the preparation of structural calculations, plans, specifications, and construction documents.
• Provide technical leadership and quality assurance for structural engineering projects.
• Grow, mentor, and develop the structural engineering team through coaching and knowledge sharing.
• Collaborate closely with transportation, civil, and environmental teams to deliver integrated project solutions.
• Support business development efforts, client relationship management, and project pursuits.
• Ensure compliance with applicable Department of Transportation (DOT) standards, design codes, and industry best practices.
• Serve as a trusted technical resource for bridge structures, retaining walls, and other transportation-related structural systems.

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in bridge and structural design.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or Structural Engineer (SE) licensure, with the ability to obtain licensure in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin as needed.
• Demonstrated experience designing steel and reinforced concrete structures.
• Strong understanding of bridge inspection methodologies, transportation infrastructure, and applicable design standards.

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Experience leading engineering teams and mentoring junior staff.
• Knowledge of construction methods, materials, and structural design codes.
• Experience developing design plans, technical specifications, and construction documents.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to build relationships with clients, stakeholders, and project teams.
• Proven problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Benefits & Pay Transparency

The base salary range for this role is indicated in the posting. This range reflects the company’s good faith estimate of the compensation for this position at the time of posting. Final compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, skills, qualifications, internal equity, and geographic location.

We may use AI-powered tools to support administrative aspects of recruiting, including sourcing support and note-taking. These tools do not evaluate candidates or influence screening, interview, or hiring decisions. Every candidate is reviewed and assessed by human recruiters and hiring managers.