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

Oct 3, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Structural Design Technicians are responsible for designing and constructing the structural framework of a variety of buildings, bridges, and other structures. Their work is essential to ensuring that buildings and other structures can withstand the forces of nature, such as high winds and earthquakes, without causing any major issues. As a result, their work is vitally important to the safety of people, as well as the durability of the structure itself.

In order to be successful in this role, Structural Design Technicians must possess strong analytical skills, a thorough understanding of building materials and construction processes, and a firm grasp of structural engineering principles. They must also be able to collaborate with architects, engineers, and other building professionals to find the most effective design solutions.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. The first step to becoming a Structural Design Technician is to obtain a high school diploma or GED. This will provide an individual with the basic skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in this field.
Pursue Post-Secondary Education. Although there is no specific degree or certification necessary to become a Structural Design Technician, pursuing post-secondary education in the field will provide individuals with the additional knowledge they need to succeed. Pursuing an Associate's degree in engineering technology or a related field will provide the fundamental understanding of structural design principles, mathematics, and other related coursework.
Get On-the-Job Training. Once individuals have obtained their post-secondary degree or certification, they can gain on-the-job training by working closely with experienced professionals. On-the-job training is the best way to gain hands-on experience and learn the specifics of the job.
Obtain Professional Certification. In some cases, employers may require professional certification from individuals who are seeking to become Structural Design Technicians. Professional certification is typically offered through organizations such as the American Institute of Steel Construction, which offers certification for design professionals in steel construction.
Develop Specialized Skills. As technology continues to evolve, Structural Design Technicians must stay up-to-date on the newest trends and technologies in order to remain competitive. Pursuing specialized certifications or taking courses that focus on computer-aided design (CAD) programs and other software will help individuals stay ahead of the curve and become more marketable in the field.

Structural design technicians are responsible for the structural integrity of a project, which requires them to possess a wide range of skills and competencies. To become a successful structural design technician, they must demonstrate strong technical and analytical skills as well as a good understanding of engineering principles and building codes. They must be able to use specialized software tools to develop designs and specifications, analyze data, and interpret results.

They also need to have excellent communication abilities to interact effectively with clients, colleagues, and other professionals in the field. Furthermore, they must be proficient in the use of mathematics, geometry, and physics to solve complex problems and be able to recognize potential safety hazards. With a combination of these skills and competencies, a structural design technician can effectively create safe and sound designs that meet the needs of clients and adhere to applicable codes and regulations.

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Job Description

Prepare drawings, models, and other documents for structural design projects.
Develop detailed drawings for structural elements such as steel frames, concrete foundations, and masonry walls.
Analyze structural designs for adherence to applicable codes and regulations.
Utilize CAD software to generate and modify structural designs.
Create and maintain a library of structural design components.
Assist engineers in the selection of materials and components for structural designs.
Collaborate with other engineering departments to ensure project feasibility and compliance.
Perform site visits to take measurements and review existing conditions.
Inspect existing structures for compliance with building codes and regulations.
Participate in the development of construction plans and specifications.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of engineering design principles and methods
Strong understanding of structural analysis and design
Proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, and other design software
Ability to read and interpret technical documents and blueprints
Ability to work collaboratively with a team
Knowledge of relevant codes and standards
Good problem-solving skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Detail-oriented and organized
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Having a strong understanding of structural design concepts is essential for a Structural Design Technician. This knowledge helps them to identify and address problems with the structural system of a building, as well as to assess the safety and stability of the structure. the ability to read and interpret engineering plans and blueprints is essential for a successful Structural Design Technician.

They must be able to identify potential issues with the structure and then propose possible solutions. Furthermore, having a good eye for detail is also required, as it allows them to accurately measure and check components and materials. Good communication skills are also necessary in order to effectively convey ideas to colleagues, contractors and clients.

Finally, the ability to work collaboratively with other professionals is important, as it allows the Structural Design Technician to work together with architects, engineers and other professionals in order to achieve the desired outcome.

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Frequent Interview Questions

How would you define structural design?
What experience do you have in structural design?
Describe a project youve worked on that demonstrates your structural design skills.
How do you stay current with the latest technology and advancements in the structural design field?
What challenges have you faced while working on structural design projects?
How do you collaborate with other professionals, such as architects or engineers, on a structural design project?
What safety protocols do you adhere to when working on a structural design project?
Do you have experience using computer-aided design (CAD) software for structural design projects?
How would you rate your problem-solving skills when dealing with complex structural design issues?
What have been some of the most rewarding aspects of your work in structural design?

Common Tools in Industry

CAD Software. Computer Aided Design software allows structural designers to create accurate 2D and 3D models of various structures. (eg: Autodesk AutoCAD)
Structural Analysis Software. Specialized software used to calculate forces, stresses, and displacements in various structural components. (eg: ETABS)
Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Software. Used to simulate the behavior of structures under various load conditions. (eg: ANSYS)
Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software. 3D modeling software used to create comprehensive digital models of a building and its components. (eg: Autodesk Revit)
Structural Detailing Software. Automates the production of shop drawings and other documents related to the manufacture and construction of a building. (eg: Tekla Structures)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE)
American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC)
American Institute of Architects (AIA)
International Code Council (ICC)
American Concrete Institute (ACI)
National Council of Structural Engineers Associations (NCSEA)
American Society of Structural Engineers (ASSE)
Structural Engineering Institute (SEI)
Steel Structures Technology Education Program (SSTEP)
National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS)

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Common Important Terms

Structural Engineering. The branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, and analysis of structures such as buildings, bridges, and other large structures.
Loads. Forces exerted on a structure due to gravity, wind, and other environmental factors. Structural design technicians must analyze how different loads will affect a structure.
Computer Aided Design (CAD). A computer software system used to create and modify 2D and 3D drawings. Structural design technicians often use CAD programs to create detailed designs of structures.
Finite Element Analysis (FEA). A method of analyzing a structure by dividing it into small elements and solving equations for each element. FEA is used to determine how a structure will respond to different loads.
Building Codes. Regulations that govern the design and construction of buildings. Structural design technicians must ensure that their designs adhere to building codes.
Structural Analysis. The process of determining the strength and stability of a structure. Structural design technicians use analytical methods to assess the performance of their designs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is a Structural Design Technician? A1: A Structural Design Technician is a professional who is responsible for producing detailed drawings of structural elements and components based on engineering specifications and calculations. Q2: What skills are required for a successful Structural Design Technician? A2: Successful Structural Design Technicians must have excellent technical skills, proficiency with AutoCAD and structural analysis software, and a solid understanding of civil engineering principles and practices. Q3: How long does it take to become a Structural Design Technician? A3: It typically takes about two years of education and/or experience to become a qualified Structural Design Technician. Q4: What qualifications are necessary to become a Structural Design Technician? A4: To become a Structural Design Technician, individuals must have at least an associate's degree in civil engineering or a related field, such as drafting and design technology. Q5: What type of job opportunities are available for Structural Design Technicians? A5: Structural Design Technicians are employed by engineering firms, construction companies, and government agencies, and may work in the office or on-site at construction sites.