Structural Department Manager

About Us 

10-4 Engineering PLLC is a Chicago-based structural engineering firm with a staff of 12. Founded by experienced engineers with more than 100 years of combined experience delivering complex transportation infrastructure projects throughout Illinois. Our name comes from the phrase “10-4,” meaning message received, taking action. That same mindset guides how we communicate, solve problems, and deliver infrastructure projects that serve our communities. Our structural team is the foundation of the firm, delivering bridge and structural designs for major transportation projects across the region. We are looking for an experienced Senior Structural Engineer and a Structural Department Manager who can contribute to technical design work while helping lead and grow our structural practice. This is an exciting opportunity to work directly with the founding senior engineers, mentor junior engineers, and help shape the future of a growing engineering firm.

About the Job 

We are seeking a licensed Senior Structural Engineer (7+ years) and a Structural Department Manager (15+ years) (Illinois SE) with experience in bridge and transportation structures. This role combines technical structural design leadership, project management, and team development. Depending on experience, the selected candidate will lead structural design work across planning, preliminary engineering, final design, and construction support while helping guide the development of the firm’s structural practice. You will collaborate closely with roadway, geotechnical, hydraulics, and construction teams to deliver high-quality infrastructure solutions.

What You Will Do 

•  Lead structural analysis and design for bridges, retaining walls, culverts, and other transportation structures.

•  Plan and develop structural layouts in coordination with roadway/railway, including bridge type studies and structural alts.

•  Prepare/review plans, specifications, cost estimates, and design calcs in accordance with AASHTO, AREMA, and IDOT.

•  Provide inspection, condition assessment, and load rating of structures, including prep of condition reports and rehab.

•  Serve as Project Manager and/or Engineer of Record on projects, scoping, budgeting, and scheduling.

•  Coordinate closely with roadway, geotechnical, hydraulics, and other disciplines to develop project solutions.

•  Mentor junior engineers, support recruitment/training, and contribute to growth/development of the firm’s structural team.

What We Are Looking For 

•  Based in the Chicago area or willing to relocate.

•  Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering with structural focus (Master’s preferred).

•  Illinois SE license required.

•  Approximately 7–15 years of structural design experience, ideally with IDOT or Illinois Tollway projects.

•  Strong knowledge of AASHTO, AREMA, and IDOT bridge design standards.

•  Experience with structural analysis and design software.

•  Proficiency with MicroStation (Bentley 3D modeling a plus).

•  Strong communication and organizational skills.

•  Ability to manage multiple projects while mentoring junior engineers.

•  Interest in contributing to the growth of a small, collaborative firm.

Compensation & What We Offer 

·  Base salary: $120,000 – $200,000 

·  Compensation varied based on exp level, résumé/portfolio, tech skills, licensure, leadership/industry impact, and fit. 

·  Fifteen (15) days of paid time off each year 

• Seven paid holidays, including one floating holidays 

• 401(k) plan with a 4% company match 

• Health, dental, and vision insurance 

• Life insurance 

• Flexible spending and health savings account options 

• Short term and long-term disability coverage 

• Hybrid and flexible work schedule 

Ready to Take the Next Step?  

At 10-4 Engineering, you will find the rare chance to shape your career while working on challenging projects alongside seasoned mentors who truly care about your growth. If you are ready to step up, learn, and help us build the future, we would love to meet you.  

10-4 Engineering PLLC is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.