How to Be Structural Analyst - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Dec 15, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The increasing demand for structural analysts has caused a rise in the need for qualified professionals. This has led to higher salaries, greater job security, and a larger pool of potential employers. Additionally, the proliferation of technology in the engineering industry has made structural analysis faster and more efficient, which further encourages employers to seek out experienced professionals. As a result, those with experience in this field are highly sought after and can expect to command competitive compensation packages.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Degree in Structural Engineering. Prospective structural analysts should first pursue a degree in structural engineering, which should cover topics related to structural analysis such as structural mechanics, engineering design and materials science.
Gain Work Experience. After completing an undergraduate degree in structural engineering, prospective analysts may want to gain some work experience in the field. Working as a structural engineer or in a related role can help prospective analysts gain valuable on-the-job experience.
Obtain Professional Certification. Professional certification is not always required to become a structural analyst, but obtaining certification can demonstrate competence and professionalism. To become certified, analysts must typically demonstrate their knowledge of structural engineering through a combination of education and experience.
Consider Pursuing a Graduate Degree. Pursuing a graduate degree in structural engineering can also help prospective structural analysts advance their career. A graduate degree can provide advanced knowledge of structural analysis and can often lead to higher-level positions.
Stay Up to Date on Developments. Structural analysis is a rapidly evolving field, and analysts should stay up to date on the latest developments to remain competitive. This can include attending conferences and reading the latest research papers on topics related to structural analysis.

The success of a structural analyst depends on their reliability and qualification. Without a strong background in engineering, architecture, or construction, a structural analyst will not be able to properly evaluate and assess the structural integrity of a building or structure. To ensure reliable and qualified results, it is important for the analyst to have a thorough understanding of the principles of physics and engineering, as well as a good grasp of mathematics, geometry, and trigonometry.

Furthermore, they must be knowledgeable about the building codes and regulations in their area to ensure that the results they provide are accurate and up to date. Finally, having a strong work ethic and being detail-oriented is essential for a successful structural analyst in order to guarantee the highest quality of results.

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Job Description

Develop structural analysis models for projects, including finite element analysis, and other calculations as appropriate.
Design and analyze structures and components for new and existing projects.
Prepare structural analysis reports that summarize findings and make recommendations for structural design modifications.
Monitor structural design progress and provide technical guidance to ensure the structural integrity of civil engineering projects.
Develop, test, and modify structural engineering solutions to support project objectives and requirements.
Utilize computer-aided design (CAD) software to create 2D and 3D models of structures.
Perform load calculations and stress analysis to determine the strength and stability of structures.
Investigate existing structures to identify possible defects or areas of weakness.
Conduct research to stay current on industry standards and emerging technologies related to structural engineering.
Prepare technical presentations and reports for internal and external audiences.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of structural design principles
Ability to interpret and analyze complex structural systems
Understanding of materials behavior and selection
Proficiency in the use of computer-aided design (CAD) programs
Ability to work with complex mathematical models
Knowledge of codes and regulations related to structural design
Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Ability to work collaboratively with other engineers
Understanding of project management concepts and techniques

Structural analysis is a vital skill for engineers, architects, and other professionals who work with construction projects. The ability to assess the strength, durability, and safety of a structure is an important part of the design process. Structural analysis involves understanding the physical and chemical properties of a material, such as its strength and stiffness, in order to determine the most effective and efficient design for a given application.

By evaluating the potential stresses and loads that a structure may be subjected to, engineers can determine the best way to design a structure to meet the needs of its intended purpose. structural analysis can identify potential weaknesses in a structure that could lead to failure, and develop solutions to mitigate those issues. having a sound understanding of structural analysis is necessary in order to ensure the safety and longevity of the structures that are built.

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Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have with analysis of structural systems?
What types of software and tools do you use to analyze structural systems?
How do you determine the load-bearing capacity of a structure?
Describe your experience with finite element analysis.
How do you evaluate the structural integrity of a building?
What techniques do you use to identify and investigate structural problems?
How do you ensure accuracy when performing structural analysis?
Describe your experience in using computer-aided engineering (CAE) software in analyzing structures.
What safety protocols do you follow when inspecting and assessing structures?
In what ways do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in structural analysis?

Common Tools in Industry

Finite Element Analysis (FEA). A numerical method used to analyze and solve complex structural engineering problems. (eg: analyzing the stress and strain of a car frame).
Structural Dynamics. A tool used to study the motion of structures under the influence of dynamic forces such as earthquakes and wind. (eg: simulating the response of a bridge to an earthquake).
Structural Optimization. A tool used to identify the most efficient design of a structure given certain constraints. (eg: finding the most cost-effective solution for a bridge design).
Computer-Aided Design (CAD). A tool used to create 2-D and 3-D models of structures. (eg: creating a 3-D model of a bridge).
Structural Testing. A tool used to verify the accuracy and reliability of a structure by testing its performance under load. (eg: testing the strength of a beam under load).

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
American Concrete Institute (ACI)
American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
Structural Engineering Institute (SEI)
International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE)
International Association for Shell and Spatial Structures (IASS)
International Association of Structural Mechanics in Reactor Technology (IARM)
Joint Committee on Structural Safety (JCSS)
International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering North America (IABSE-NA)

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Common Important Terms

Finite Element Analysis (FEA). A numerical method used to analyze the behavior of a structure under different loading conditions.
Mechanical Testing. The process of testing the properties of a material to ensure that it meets the required standards.
Modal Analysis. A type of analysis used to identify the natural frequencies of a structure and its mode shapes.
Stress Analysis. The process of determining the stresses in a structure caused by external loads.
Strain Analysis. The process of measuring the deformation of a structure caused by external loads.
Fatigue Analysis. The process of calculating the life expectancy of a component or structure due to cyclic loading.
Nonlinear Analysis. A type of analysis used to simulate the behavior of a structure under more complex loading conditions than linear analysis can account for.
Dynamic Analysis. A type of analysis used to simulate the dynamic behavior of a structure under varying loading conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Structural Analysis?

Structural analysis is the process of analyzing a structure to determine its strength and stability, and to predict how it will respond to loads. It involves understanding the material properties of the structure, its geometry, and the loads that act on it.

What are the types of Structural Analysis?

The main types of structural analysis are static analysis, dynamic analysis, and finite element analysis. Static analysis examines the behavior of a structure under static (non-changing) loads, while dynamic analysis examines the behavior under dynamic (time-varying) loads. Finite element analysis is used to calculate the stress and strain distribution within a structure.

What are the benefits of Structural Analysis?

Structural analysis allows engineers to design structures that are safer, more economical, and more efficient. It can be used to maximize the strength of a structure while minimizing its weight. Additionally, it can help identify potential failure points and recommend ways to reduce or eliminate them.

What software is used for Structural Analysis?

There are many software packages available for structural analysis, including Autodesk Robot Structural Analysis Professional, SAP2000, Tekla Structures, and ETABS. Each package offers unique features and capabilities that can be used to analyze different types of structures.

What are the steps in Structural Analysis?

The steps in structural analysis typically include defining the loads that act on the structure, creating a mathematical model of the structure, solving the model to find the internal forces and deformations, and interpreting the results to determine the structure's behavior.