Hire the Best Structural Engineers

Clients rate our Structural Engineers
Rating is 4.8 out of 5.
4.8/5
Based on 1,219 client reviews
Maria A.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

$40/hr
5.0
195 jobs

Experienced Structural Engineer educated in an extensive field of structures, heavy and light, in various structural materials. I possess a good understanding of today’s market design changes. I reply to technical questions quickly and recognize good engineering opportunities to adjust to existing designs to make them fit for purpose. I'm well-versed in Structural Engineering, Earthquake Engineering, High Rise Structures, and Bridge Engineering. Skilled in most design analysis software such as ETABS, SAFE, SAP2000, CSIBridge, CSICols, TEKLA TEDDS, FORTE, IDEA StatiCa, etc. Ample experience in basic structural engineering and capable of providing highly detailed structural engineering designs, plans, and specifications. Excellent in AutoCAD and have been using it for 16 years now. My basic skills are: • analyzing configurations of the basic structural components of a building or other structure; • calculating the pressures, stresses, and strains that each component, such as a beam or lintel, will experience from other parts of the structure due to human use or environmental pressures such as weather or earthquakes; • considering the strength of various materials, e.g. timber, concrete, steel, and brick, to see how their inclusion may necessitate a change of structural design; • liaising with other designers, including architects, to agree on safe designs and their fit with the aesthetic concept of the construction; • examining structures at risk of collapse and advising how to improve their structural integrity, such as recommending removal or repair of defective parts or rebuilding the entire structure; • making drawings, specifications and computer models of structures for building contractors; • working with geotechnical engineers to investigate ground conditions and analyze results of soil sample and in-situ tests; • liaising with construction contractors to ensure that newly erected buildings are structurally sound; • applying expert knowledge of the forces that act on various structures; • using CAD technology for simulation purposes.

  • Structural Engineering
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Structural Drawing
  • Structural Detailing
  • Wooden Structure
  • ETABS
  • Advance Steel
  • STAAD
  • Structural Analysis
  • Steel Structure
  • Civil Engineering
  • SAP
  • Construction
Nguyen T.

Hanoi, Vietnam

$25/hr
5.0
378 jobs

Welcome to my profile! My Skills: 💎 Floor Plan Design Expert: AutoCAD, Sketchup, Photoshop. 💎 3D Rendering of Exterior and Interior: Sketchup, 3Ds Max, Lumion, Vray 💎 3D Landscape and Architectural Animation: Lumion 💎 Vector Tracing and Graphic Design: AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop Sincerely Regards, Nguyen!

  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Adobe Illustrator
  • 3D Rendering
  • Adobe Photoshop
  • SketchUp
  • CAD
  • 2D Design
  • Adobe After Effects
  • Residential Design
  • Architectural Diagram
  • Exterior Rendering
  • Interior Architecture
  • Architectural Design
  • Mapinfo
  • Photo Editing
Ryan C.

Bristol, New Hampshire

$60/hr
5.0
10 jobs

I am a Licensed Structural Engineer (PE) with active licenses across 30 U.S. states, providing full-service structural engineering solutions for residential and light commercial projects. I specialize in delivering permit-ready full set structural plans, accurate calculations, and PE-stamped drawings that meet all applicable U.S. codes (IBC, IRC, ASCE 7) while ensuring constructability, safety, and efficiency. I work closely with contractors, architects, and homeowners to ensure that every project moves smoothly from concept to permit approval — with no unnecessary delays, revisions, or confusion. 🛠 Core Services ✔ Full Set Structural Plans (Permit-Ready) ✔ PE Stamping (30 U.S. States) ✔ Structural Analysis & Calculations ✔ Structural Engineering ✔ Gravity & Lateral Load Design (Wind, Snow, Seismic) ✔ Wood, Steel, and Light Concrete Design ✔ Beam, Column, and Framing Design ✔ Foundation Design & Load Verification ✔ Decks, Patio Covers, and Pergolas ✔ Home Additions & Second-Story Expansions ✔ Load-Bearing Wall Removal Design ✔ Review, Redlines, and Stamping of Existing Plans ⚙ My Work Style (Quality + Timeline Commitment) I approach every project with a focus on precision, efficiency, and accountability: ✔ Accuracy from the first submission (reduce revisions) ✔ Strict adherence to timelines — deadlines are commitments ✔ Clear, proactive communication throughout the project ✔ Well-structured drawings for easy construction ✔ Balanced design: safety + cost efficiency 👉 My goal: Deliver high-quality work on time, every time 💼 Professional Strengths ✔ Strong expertise in U.S. residential structural systems ✔ Deep understanding of permit approval processes ✔ Ability to anticipate and prevent city review comments ✔ Practical, buildable, and cost-efficient design approach ✔ Clean, organized, contractor-friendly drawings 💻 Software & Tools ✔ AutoCAD ✔ Revit ✔ RISA / ETABS / SAP2000 ✔ RAM Structural System ✔ Excel-based calculation tools 📜 Licenses ✔ Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) ✔ Active in 30 U.S. states 🏗 Typical Projects ✔ Residential decks and outdoor structures ✔ Home additions and structural renovations ✔ Foundation evaluations (“pop-top” projects) ✔ Structural framing design and optimization ✔ Contractor support for permit submissions ⏱ Availability & Reliability ✔ Available for fixed-price & long-term projects ✔ Fast response time ✔ Capable of urgent / fast-track work ✔ Reliable and deadline-focused 📩 Let’s Work Together If you need reliable structural design, calculations, or PE-stamped full set plans, feel free to invite me or send a message. I’ll review your project and provide clear next steps quickly. AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WV, WI, WY Arizona, Colorado Connecticut Georgia Hawaii Kentucky Massachusetts Maryland Minnesota Nevada New York Texas Oregon Virginia Washington Illinois Michigan Tennessee alamba Delaware Missouri Montana New Mexico Oklahoma Pennsylvania South Carolina Wisconsin Arkansas New Hampshire New Jersey North Carolina Mississippi California Florida Kansas Nebraska North Dakota South Dakota Ohio Indiana Idaho registered structural engineer, licensed structural engineer, civil engineer, landscape designer, mep designer, hvac, architect, registered architect, licensed architect, landscape architect, registered mep engineer Keywords: certified, structural drawing, structural engineering, structural design, structural calculation, sturctural report, wooden structure, steel structure, garage, residential design, commercial design, registered structural engineer, licensed structural engineer, building information modeling, civil engineer, cad drafting, autodesk autocad, deck, garage, architectural design, floor plan, pdf to cad, landscape design, mep design, hvac, architect, registered architect, licensed architect, registered structural engineer, licensed structural engineer, civil engineer, landscape designer, mep designer, hvac, architect, registered architect, licensed architect, landscape architect, registered mep engineer

  • Structural Engineering
  • Structural Drawing
  • Structural Calculation Sheet
  • Architectural Design
  • Architectural Drawing
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Civil Engineering
  • Residential Design
  • Commercial Design
  • CAD Drafting
  • Building Information Modeling
  • MEP Design
  • Structural Analysis
  • Autodesk Revit
  • Building Design
Brian K.

Novato, California

$70/hr
5.0
8 jobs

Structural engineer with 10 years of experience in the construction industry. Experienced with all types of construction including structural steel, cast-in-place concrete, masonry, light gauge steel, and wood. 5+ years of experience with precast concrete. Have worked on a wide variety of buildings including parking garages, multi-family residences, commercial buildings, hotels, schools, and water treatment plants.

  • Structural Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Architectural Design
  • Construction Monitoring
  • Engineering & Architecture
  • CAD
  • CAD Conversion
  • Civil Engineering
  • Construction
Maranda L.

Red Oak, Texas

$60/hr
5.0
9 jobs

Licensed Professional Engineer | Structural Engineer | PE Stamp | Architectural Design Need permit-ready structural engineering plans prepared accurately and on schedule? I am a Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) with extensive experience providing structural engineering solutions for residential, commercial, and light industrial projects. I deliver code-compliant structural calculations, construction drawings, and engineering support for permit approval while coordinating closely with architects, contractors, and property owners. My goal is to provide practical, cost-effective structural designs that are safe, buildable, and meet local building code requirements. Services I Provide ✅ Structural Design and Analysis ✅ PE-Stamped Structural Drawings (where licensed) ✅ Structural Calculations for Building Permits ✅ Foundation Design ✅ Wood, Steel, Concrete, and Masonry Structures ✅ Residential Structural Engineering ✅ Commercial Structural Engineering ✅ New Construction ✅ Additions and Remodels ✅ ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) ✅ Decks, Porches, and Patio Covers ✅ Retaining Walls ✅ Load-Bearing Wall Removal ✅ Roof Framing Design ✅ Beam, Column, and Connection Design ✅ Structural Inspection Reports ✅ Existing Structure Evaluation ✅ Shop Drawing Review ✅ Value Engineering Software AutoCAD Revit RISA-3D ETABS SAP2000 RAM Structural System STAAD.Pro Enercalc Bluebeam Revu Microsoft Office Why Clients Hire Me ✔ Permit-ready structural drawings ✔ Accurate engineering calculations ✔ Fast communication and reliable delivery ✔ Practical and economical design solutions ✔ Strong knowledge of U.S. building codes ✔ Professional coordination with architects and contractors Whether you need structural calculations, PE-stamped drawings, or complete structural design for a new project or renovation, I am committed to delivering high-quality engineering services that keep your project moving forward. Let's discuss your project and find the most efficient structural solution. AL, AK, AZ, AR, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, HI, ID, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MN, MS, MO, MT, NE, NV, NH, NJ, NM, NY, NC, ND, OH, OK, OR, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VT, VA, WV, WI, WY Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Georgia, Hawaii Kentucky Massachusetts Maryland Minnesota Nevada New York Texas Oregon Virginia Washington Illinois Michigan Tennessee alamba Delaware Missouri Montana New Mexico Oklahoma Pennsylvania South Carolina Wisconsin Arkansas New Hampshire New Jersey North Carolina Mississippi California Florida Kansas Nebraska North Dakota South Dakota Ohio Indiana Idaho registered structural engineer, licensed structural engineer, civil engineer, landscape designer, mep designer, hvac, architect, registered architect, licensed architect, landscape architect, registered mep engineer Keywords: certified, structural drawing, structural engineering, structural design, structural calculation, sturctural report, wooden structure, steel structure, garage, residential design, commercial design, registered structural engineer, licensed structural engineer, building information modeling, civil engineer, cad drafting, autodesk autocad, deck, garage, architectural design, floor plan, pdf to cad, landscape design, mep design, hvac, architect, registered architect, licensed architect, registered structural engineer, licensed structural engineer, civil engineer, landscape designer, mep designer, hvac, architect, registered architect, licensed architect, landscape architect, registered mep engineer

  • Structural Engineering
  • Structural Analysis
  • Structural Drawing
  • Structural Analysis & Design Software
  • Structural Detailing
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Civil Engineering
  • Archicad
  • Architectural Design
  • Architectural Drawing
  • 3D Rendering
  • Autodesk Revit
  • Building Information Modeling
  • MEP Design
  • CAD Drafting
  • Building Design
  • AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Commercial Design
  • Floor Plan
  • Residential Design
Mike B.

Laurel, Maryland

$30/hr
5.0
13 jobs

We are a company of professional engineers specializing in structural, civil, and architectural disciplines, boasting 16 years of experience. Our main office is located in Maryland. We exclusively undertake projects within the United States, specifically in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Virginia. Our services encompass architectural, structural, and civil engineering, as well as drawing reviews, PE stamping in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. Additionally, we provide structural certification and third-party inspection services.

  • Structural Engineering
  • Architectural Design
  • Civil Engineering

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Structural engineer hiring guide

Structural engineers ensure building safety across residential renovations, commercial construction, foundation assessments, and permit compliance. Their expertise prevents costly failures, helps ensure code compliance, and provides the engineering calculations required for permits and construction approvals.

What does a structural engineer do?

A structural engineer designs and analyzes buildings, bridges, and other structures to ensure they’re safe, stable, and able to withstand physical loads and environmental pressures. They provide the mathematical backbone to architectural designs, ensuring walls, foundations, and roofs can withstand loads. 

Specific structural engineering activities include:

  • Creating engineering drawings and structural plans using CAD software like AutoCAD and Revit

  • Performing structural analysis and finite element analysis (FEA) with tools such as STAAD Pro, ETABS, and SAP2000

  • Evaluating the load-bearing capacity of walls, beams, and foundations for new construction, residential additions, or renovations

  • Conducting foundation evaluations and providing FHA certifications for manufactured homes

  • Ensuring all designs and modifications comply with local building codes and safety regulations to secure necessary permits

  • Conducting on-site inspections and structural assessments to identify potential issues or verify construction quality

How to hire a structural engineer on Upwork

Finding the right structural engineer starts with a clear project scope and thorough evaluation process. By following this structured four-step approach, you can systematically evaluate candidates and confidently secure a qualified structural engineer for your project.

Step 1: Post a job

The quality of your job posting directly influences the caliber of structural engineering candidates who apply. 

  • A well-written structural engineer job description is essential for attracting professionals with the specific technical expertise your project requires. Review our civil engineering job description template for ideas on content and format.

  • Outline your goals, required technical skills, and expected deliverables to filter for the best matches.

  • Describe the project specifically, listing must-have skills like proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit), structural analysis tools (STAAD Pro), and knowledge of relevant local building codes.

  • State the required deliverables, project timeline, and budget to help candidates assess if the job is a good fit.

To draft a strong post faster, try the Job Post Generator powered by Uma™, Upwork's Mindful AI. Describe what you need in a few sentences, and Uma will draft a tailored structural engineer  job post for your review.

Step 2: Evaluate candidates

A systematic approach to candidate assessment helps ensure you identify structural engineers with proven expertise in projects similar to yours. 

  • Reviewing proposals carefully allows you to identify engineers who possess the necessary qualifications and safety certifications.

  • Review candidate portfolios for similar projects, focusing on the quality of their past work in residential, commercial, or industrial sectors.

  • Check client testimonials and Job Success Scores to assess reliability, communication skills, and professionalism.

  • Verify credentials such as a professional engineer (PE) license or certifications in specific software or methodologies like seismic design.

You can use Upwork’s instant video interviews to screen applicants for a best-fit shortlist, with Uma providing side-by-side candidate comparisons.

Step 3: Interview your top choices

Interviews provide an opportunity to assess how candidates approach structural challenges and communicate technical information. This step helps you gauge their expertise beyond their portfolio and determine whether their working style aligns with your project requirements.

  • Need interview question ideas? Check our common interview questions guide.

  • Ask about their engineering approach and methodology, and how they handle code compliance and permit requirements for similar projects.

  • Inquire about the software tools they use for design and analysis to ensure compatibility with your preferred formats.

  • Request examples of similar projects, discuss outcomes, challenges faced, and how they resolved them.

Upwork Messages allows you to schedule and conduct live video interviews on the platform, with call transcripts and summaries available after the calls.

Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work

Before starting the work, use Upwork’s contracting step to put a firm agreement in place.  Taking time to structure the engagement properly sets the stage for a successful collaboration and prevents scope creep.

  • Documenting project expectations, deliverables, and payment terms before work begins minimizes misunderstandings and creates accountability for both parties.

  • Upwork's contract workroom and messaging tools keep communication clear and organized.

  • Choose between fixed-price contracts for defined deliverables or hourly contracts for consultations and ongoing work.

  • Rely on Hourly Payment Protection, identity verification, and project funds to ensure secure, predictable payments tied to approved milestones.

Upwork is not affiliated with and does not sponsor or endorse any of the tools or services discussed in this article. These tools and services are provided only as potential options, and each reader and company should take the time needed to adequately analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.

The rates and information provided in this article are based on current data and industry sources available at the time of publication. Freelance rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, project scope, and market conditions. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research to confirm current rates and trends, as this information may change over time.

How much does hiring a structural engineer cost?

On Upwork, structural engineers typically charge $18-$32 per hour, similar to other civil engineering specialists, with advanced experts charging $100+ per hour. Factors affecting cost include project location and complexity, turnaround time, and specific licensure requirements. 

Here are typical costs for hiring a structural engineer for projects commonly found on Upwork:

Basic consultation or structural assessment

$300-$800 /project

Entry-level to mid-level
  • Single-property structural inspection
  • Load-bearing wall evaluation
  • Basic structural report

Residential design or permit plans

$1,000-$3,000 /project

Mid-level to senior-level
  • CAD drawings for home addition
  • Garage or deck structural plans
  • Stamped engineering plans for permits

Commercial structural design

$3,000-$10,000 /project

Senior-level or specialist
  • Multistory building structural design
  • Complex load analysis and calculations
  • FEA modeling and simulation

Ongoing structural consulting (retainer)

$2,000-$8,000 /month

Mid-level to senior-level
  • Monthly construction oversight
  • Periodic site inspections
  • Design review and approvals

Large-scale infrastructure projects

$10,000-$50,000 /project

Expert or licensed PE
  • Bridge or parking structure design
  • Industrial facility engineering
  • Seismic retrofitting analysis

FAQs about structural engineers

Frequently asked questions

Is hiring a structural engineer worth it?

Yes, hiring a structural engineer is worth it for any project involving structural modifications, new construction, or safety assessments. Most jurisdictions legally require stamped engineering plans for structural work to obtain permits. While architects handle design and aesthetics, structural engineers provide the load calculations and safety verification required by law. The consequences of skipping structural engineering include permit rejections, failed inspections, costly repairs, and potential structural failure. As an example, a foundation issue can cost $20,000 to $100,000+ to repair, far exceeding typical engineering fees.

What’s the difference between an architect and a structural engineer?

The primary difference between an architect and a structural engineer is that architects focus on the visual design, functionality, and spatial layout of a building, while structural engineers assess and improve the physics and safety of the skeleton. Architects design how a building looks and feels; structural engineers calculate the size of beams, columns, and foundations needed to ensure the building stands up and meets safety codes. For most major projects, you need both professionals working together.

Do I need a structural engineer to remove a wall?

Yes, you need guidance from a structural engineer before removing any load-bearing wall to ensure the building remains safe. Moving forward without proper support can cause your ceiling or roof to sag or collapse. A structural engineer can determine if a wall supports weight and design the necessary beams or headers to replace the wall safely. Even for non-load-bearing walls, an assessment is often wise to avoid damaging hidden electrical or plumbing systems.

What software do structural engineers use?

Structural engineers commonly use software like AutoCAD, Revit, STAAD Pro, ETABS, and SAP2000 for design and analysis. For creating drawings and models, CAD software is the industry standard. For complex calculations and modeling, they rely on specialized structural analysis tools. When hiring, you can specify your preferred software in your job post to ensure compatibility.