Principal Structural Engineer

Job Summary

Principal Structual Engineer

Purdue University – Capital Asset Management

Help shape the physical foundation of a world-class university. At Purdue, our engineers don’t just design structures—they strengthen the framework that supports learning, research, and innovation across campus.

The Structural Engineer will provide master-level project engineering support and oversight through detailed review, research, analysis, design, coordination, and field observation. In this role, you’ll ensure that every structural project aligns with university standards and delivers lasting value to the Purdue community. You will be a key collaborator to guide active design and construction projects ranging from small repairs to large capital projects. This role will provide a wide range of opportunities for involvement and engineering problem solving that are ever changing to meet the demands of the university.

You’ll collaborate closely with project managers, design teams, operations staff, and external partners to guide complex projects from concept through completion. Your expertise will inform strategic decisions in structural design, building condition assessment, and continuous improvement of campus facilities.

What You’ll Do

• Provide master-level structural project engineering support through all project phases
• Review and comment on design work by external architectural and engineering firms
• Collaborate with project managers to resolve complex engineering challenges
• Offer post-project consultation and provide technical guidance to operations and maintenance staff
• Conduct and oversee condition assessments for the building assessment program
Support the development and maintenance of University design standards

What You’ll Bring

• Deep technical knowledge of structural engineering principles and practices
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to balance multiple priorities
• Collaborative mindset and clear communication style that supports cross-functional teamwork
Commitment to quality, innovation, and continuous improvement

What You’ll Find at Purdue
Purdue offers more than a career—it’s an opportunity to make an impact. Here, your work supports a community dedicated to discovery and excellence. You’ll find collaboration, growth, and purpose in every project, helping shape the campus where innovation thrives.

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or engineering technology with structural emphasis required
• Indiana PE Registration Required or ability to attain within 90 days
• Minimum eight (8) years post-PE registration experience in the field of structural engineering required
  • Design, analysis, condition assessment, project engineering, and facilities engineering experience in building structural systems required
  • Experience in structural steel and reinforced concrete design required
  • Experience in parking garage and utility tunnel design maintenance and required desired
  • Experience in development of construction documents for building construction and construction observation experience desired
  • AutoCAD or Microstation drafting experience desired
Equivalent combination of education and experience considered

Skills Needed:

• Thorough and advanced knowledge of engineering principles and techniques of engineering planning; of equipment and materials used in engineering operations; of specialized subjects used in the fields of engineering, such as mathematics, statistics, mechanics, power, physics, and chemistry; and of strength of materials required
• Strong computer skills required in use of Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, and discipline-specific technical software applications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills required
• Knowledge of appropriate state and federal codes required
• Demonstrated ability to satisfactorily perform self-directed activities of high complexity without engineering oversight, guidance, and assistance required
• Ability is required to apply engineering principles to practical engineering problems; to use engineering equipment and tools, including computer applications; to make, read and interpret engineering drawings and specifications
• Ability to:
  • relate abstract ideas to actual needs and adopt an effective course of action required
  • establish and maintain effective working relationships with others required
  exercise sound engineering judgment and exhibit solid leadership to establish well-reasoned solutions required
  

Additional Information:

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Immediate Contribution by the university towards the retirement account
Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Professional 5

• Pay Band S090
• Job Code #20003781

Career pathmaker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

The anticipated annual salary for this position is between $120,000 - $135,000 commensurate with the candidate’s education and experience. The final salary offer will be determined based on a variety of factors, including equity, available budget, educational background, and relevant experience.

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an EOE employer.