Senior Structural Engineer
LVI Associates · Chicago, IL · 1 wk ago
Engineering$100k–$130k/yrFull-time
Structural Engineer (PE, SE track) | 5-15 Years | Ownership Pathway | Chicago Loop (Hybrid)Competitive base, up to $130K+ depending on experience, plus profit sharing, 401(k) match and bonusI'm working with one of Chicago's best-kept secrets in structural engineering. It's a boutique firm that has been practising for over 40 years. Its portfolio would surprise most engineers at firms ten times its size. This isn't a "small firm, small projects" role. They work on projects from 5,000 sq ft to 1,000,000 sq ft, with construction budgets from $1M up to $900M. They have work across the US and internationally. Some of their projects are so high-profile that they're still under NDA years later. They're busy and want someone who can take on project work quickly. They're also planning a leadership transition over the next few years. For the right engineer, this is a real route to firm leadership and ownership, not a vague promise. Why this one is different A clear path to leadership. The current owners took over in a 2017 ownership transition. They're now planning the next one and want someone who could step into firm leadership within about 4 to 6 years. Variety you won't get at a large firm. Everyone works on everything. Current work includes healthcare, higher education, Department of Defense projects and residential. You won't be pigeonholed. Stability. The firm got through 2008 and later downturns without laying anyone off. Many of the team have been there for decades, and one owner has been there for 32 years. Direct mentorship. You'll work alongside principals who hold PE and SE licences across multiple states. Close-knit culture. It's a small team that treats each other like family. Long-serving staff say that's why they've stayed. What you'll be doing Designing and analysing building structures across a wide range of sectors and project sizesRunning multiple projects at once, from small renovations to major new buildsWorking directly with architects, owners and contractorsTaking on client relationships and business development over time, if that's the route you wantHelping shape how the firm grows as it moves through its next leadership transition What they're looking for 5 to 15 years of structural engineering experience, ideally in buildingsA PE licence, with an Illinois SE or a clear plan to sit the SE exam If you're toward the senior end of that range, you'll need to be licensed. The firm wants engineers who are building their careers, not plateauing. Comfort switching between projects quickly in a busy environment Ideally some entrepreneurial drive and an interest in client development and leadership. Strong technical engineers will still be considered. Package Base salary: competitive and negotiable. Around $100K to $130K for an engineer with about 10 years' experience and an SE licence, with flexibility for the right person. 401(k) with a company match of around 3%Health insurance with 50% of the premium paid by the company Location and flexibility The office is in the Chicago Loop, on W Jackson Blvd. You'll be in the office while you settle in, then move to a hybrid schedule with at least 3 days a week in the office. If you're a PE who wants your work to have a real impact on the business and would like a real shot at leading a firm, I'd love to ta