Job Details

Senior Structural Engineer
Location: Chesapeake, VA
Contract-to-Hire Opportunity

Our global EPC Firm client is hiring a Senior Structural Engineer - Waterfront for a contract-to-hire opportunity in their Chesapeake, VA office.

The Senior Structural Engineer will lead multi-disciplinary project teams throughout the entire design and construction lifecycle. This role focuses on designing marine and waterfront structures, adapting technical plans to meet budget requirements, client expectations, and overall project objectives. The ideal candidate is a proven leader with deep structural expertise and a passion for mentoring emerging engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural design from conceptual development through final design for marine structures, including piers, wharfs, bulkheads, fender systems, and related waterfront infrastructure.
• Develop project scopes, schedules, budgets, staffing plans, and construction planning deliverables.
• Manage and document change orders effectively to ensure accurate project tracking.
• Apply expert knowledge of structural concepts, practices, codes, and procedures to standard and complex engineering challenges.
• Produce and perform quality reviews of detailed engineering drawings and calculations.
• Participate in construction administration, including resolving design-related installation issues in coordination with field personnel.
• Lead field inspections, site investigations, material testing, and verification activities.
• Prepare and present clear, technical reports for clients, internal teams, and industry publications.
• Build strong relationships with existing clients and contractors while identifying and developing new business opportunities.
• Support sales and marketing initiatives and contribute to key client pursuits.
• Prepare cost proposals, qualification statements, project budgets, and cost estimates.
• Report project performance metrics and ensure customer satisfaction expectations are achieved.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to structural engineering team members.
• Ensure adherence to QA/QC processes and effective communication across engineering disciplines.
• Promote and comply with all company safety policies and site-specific requirements.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support project and organizational goals.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Structural Engineering or related Engineering Technology from an ABET-accredited program plus successful completion of the FE exam, PE license, and 7+ years of structural engineering experience; OR
  • Master's degree in Structural Engineering and 6+ years of structural engineering experience.
• Experience leading the design of large or complex structural projects.
• Strong working knowledge of structural design codes (IBC, AISC, ACI, ASCE-7).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and structural engineering software tools.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to perform quality reviews for detailed engineering documents and specifications.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and effectively delegate tasks.
• Ability to travel as required.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
• EPC project experience is a plus.

ESPO Corporation
Leaders in Technical Recruiting & Staffing since 1965

ESPO has a comprehensive benefits package that includes PTO, Group Health and Dental Insurance, and a 401 (k) after you have satisfied the required waiting periods.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and value the benefits of diversity in our workforce. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity and expression, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, or any other attribute or protected characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance applying, please get in touch with us directly.