Structural Engineer – Santa Monica or Sacramento, CA

HGA is a nationally recognized architecture, engineering, and planning firm seeking a creative and driven Structural Engineer to join our collaborative team in either our Santa Monica or Sacramento office. We’re looking for someone who is design-oriented, technically skilled, and energized by interdisciplinary teamwork. In this role, you’ll help deliver thoughtful, forward-thinking solutions to complex structural challenges across a wide variety of innovative, high-impact projects. We value professionals who are passionate about great design and great engineering—people who thrive in environments that support creativity, collaboration, and continuous learning.

At HGA, we believe that diversity of thought, background, and experience fuels innovation. We cultivate a collaborative culture where your curiosity, creativity, and unique perspective can make a real impact—on your team, our clients, and the communities we serve. Our engineers have the opportunity to work across multiple market sectors, expanding their technical expertise through a broad range of building types—from cutting-edge laboratories and healthcare facilities to academic campuses, performance venues, museums, civic buildings, and corporate headquarters.

We're also deeply committed to sustainability and high-performance design. Whether helping clients meet ambitious energy goals or contributing to the SE 2050 Challenge, our team leads the way with research, innovation, and data-driven strategies. We aim to go beyond net-zero—toward net-positive buildings that give back more than they take.

If you're ready to shape the future of structural design with a firm that invests in your growth, your ideas, and your impact—we’d love to hear from you.

1. lead structural design for small to mid-sized projects and contribute significantly to larger, complex projects across various sectors (e.g., healthcare, commercial, Education, civic);
2. perform structural analysis and design of building systems using steel, concrete, wood, and masonry in accordance with California Building Code, ASCE7, ACI, AISC, and other relevant standards;
3. prepare and review structural calculations, technical reports, and construction documentation (plans, sections and details);
4. coordinate with architects, MEP engineers, and other disciplines to ensure integrated and efficient design solutions;
5. review and mark up drawings and collaborate with BIM technicians to develop accurate and well-coordinated structural documents;
6. conduct site visits to perform structural observations, support construction administration, and respond to RFIs, submittals, and field inquiries;
7. participate in quality control reviews and ensure design deliverables meet firm standards and client expectations;
8. support proposal development and fee estimation for new projects and additional services;
9. mentor junior engineers and interns, providing guidance on technical design and professional development; and
10. stay current with industry trends, code updates, and sustainability practices, including embodied carbon reduction and high-performance building design.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering from an accredited institution; Master’s degree preferred
• 3–7 years of structural engineering experience in building design, with a focus on steel, concrete, wood, and/or masonry structures
• Current California Professional Engineer (PE) license
• Strong knowledge of California Building Code (CBC), ASCE 7, ACI, AISC, and other relevant structural standards
• Proficiency in structural analysis and design software such as ETABS, SAP, SAFE, RAM, RISA, and Enercalc
• Working knowledge of Revit (BIM environment)
• Experience coordinating with multidisciplinary design teams, including architects, MEP engineers, and contractors
• Ability to prepare and review structural calculations, drawings, and specifications
• Demonstrated experience with construction administration, including responding to RFIs, reviewing submittals, and conducting site visits
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts
• Proven ability to manage time effectively, handle multiple priorities, and meet project deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• A collaborative mindset with a willingness to mentor junior staff and contribute to a team-oriented culture

The pay range listed aligns to the geography of the office for which this position is posted. Actual compensation will be based upon work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer. Individuals in this role working more than 24 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in HGA’s robust benefit programs which include an annual bonus and success sharing bonus program, 401(k) guaranteed contribution, paid parental leave, medical, dental and life insurance plans as well as PTO and short- and long-term disability programs. Salary Range: $84,000 - $106,800 depending on qualifications and experience level.

At HGA, you’ll do the best work of your career. We design with impact by diving deep into the people and passions that shape every place. Empathy fuels us, curiosity drives us, and meaningful work leads to innovation. We celebrate individuality, embrace flexibility, and thrive together in the office three days a week.

Join our nationally recognized, award-winning team of architects, engineers, and interior designers — help us shape what’s next.

Learn more about us here.

Application Requirements & Instructions
Please submit resume for consideration.