Hire Structural Engineer in Spain: The Complete Guide for Global Employers

Why Global Companies Hire Structural Engineers from Spain

Spain has emerged as a premier destination for structural engineering talent due to several compelling advantages. Spanish structural engineers bring a unique combination of technical excellence, creative problem-solving, and cost-effectiveness to global projects.

First, Spanish universities are renowned for their rigorous engineering programs, producing graduates with strong theoretical foundations and practical skills. Many Spanish structural engineers also possess valuable experience working on landmark projects across Europe and internationally.

Second, Spain’s diverse architectural heritage—from ancient Roman aqueducts to ultra-modern skyscrapers—has fostered engineers with versatile approaches to structural challenges. This cultural backdrop encourages innovative thinking that balances safety, aesthetics, and sustainability.

Third, Spanish structural engineers typically offer competitive rates compared to counterparts in Northern Europe or North America, providing excellent value without compromising quality. This makes them particularly attractive for companies seeking to optimize their engineering budget.

Finally, Spain’s position in the European Union ensures that structural engineers are well-versed in international building codes, including Eurocodes and other global standards, facilitating seamless collaboration on multinational projects.

Who Should Consider Hiring Spanish Structural Engineers

Several types of organizations can benefit significantly from bringing Spanish structural engineering talent on board:

• International Construction Firms managing multiple projects across Europe can leverage Spanish engineers’ familiarity with EU regulations and standards while benefiting from their ability to work effectively across cultural boundaries.
• Architecture Studios seeking structural expertise that complements creative design will find Spanish engineers particularly valuable, as they’re known for finding elegant structural solutions that respect architectural vision.
• Engineering Consultancies looking to enhance their technical capabilities can benefit from Spanish engineers’ strong analytical skills and experience with advanced modeling software.
• Property Developers with projects in Mediterranean climates will appreciate Spanish engineers’ understanding of region-specific challenges like seismic considerations and coastal conditions.
• Infrastructure Companies can leverage Spanish engineers’ expertise in bridge design, transportation structures, and public works—areas where Spain has developed considerable expertise through national infrastructure projects.

Key Skills and Specializations for Structural Engineers

Spanish structural engineers bring a diverse range of technical capabilities and specialized knowledge to projects:

Technical Expertise

• Structural analysis and design using advanced computational methods
• Proficiency in seismic design and dynamic analysis
• Expertise in various construction materials (concrete, steel, timber, masonry)
• Building Information Modeling (BIM) implementation and management
• Sustainable and energy-efficient structural design

Software Proficiency

• Advanced FEA (Finite Element Analysis) software: SAP2000, ETABS, ROBOT
• BIM platforms: Revit Structure, Tekla Structures
• CAD software: AutoCAD, MicroStation
• Specialized bridge design software: CSiBridge, Midas Civil
• Programming languages for custom structural applications: Python, MATLAB

Specialized Domains

Experience Levels of Spanish Structural Engineers

Understanding the various experience levels of structural engineers in Spain will help you match candidates to your project requirements:

Entry-Level (0-3 years)

Entry-level structural engineers in Spain typically hold a master’s degree in structural engineering or civil engineering with structural emphasis. They excel at analytical tasks, computational modeling, and drafting structural details under supervision. These professionals are familiar with current design software and can support senior engineers with calculations, drawing production, and site visits.

Mid-Level (3-8 years)

Mid-level structural engineers have developed substantial practical experience and can independently handle medium-complexity projects. They typically lead specific aspects of larger projects, manage small teams, and interact directly with clients. Spanish engineers at this level often have specialized in particular structure types or materials and have developed proficiency in project management aspects including scheduling and budgeting.

Senior-Level (8+ years)

Senior structural engineers from Spain bring comprehensive expertise and leadership capabilities. They oversee complex projects from conception through completion, manage large engineering teams, and serve as technical authorities. Many have international experience and professional certifications beyond their academic degrees. These professionals excel at solving challenging structural problems, optimizing designs, and ensuring regulatory compliance across jurisdictions.

Expert/Principal Level (15+ years)

At the highest level, principal structural engineers from Spain often hold doctoral degrees and have contributed to their field through research, publications, or innovative structural solutions. They frequently serve as consultants on particularly challenging or high-profile projects, develop technical standards, and mentor the next generation of engineers. Their extensive experience with complex structures and deep understanding of structural behavior makes them invaluable for projects pushing engineering boundaries.

Hiring Models to Choose From

When engaging structural engineering talent from Spain, several hiring models are available, each with distinct advantages depending on your project requirements and organizational structure:

Comparing Cost Structures

Each hiring model presents different cost implications:

• Full-Time Employment: Includes salary, mandatory benefits (approximately 30% of salary in Spain), equipment, and ongoing administrative costs.
• Freelance/Contractor: Higher hourly/daily rates but without benefit costs or long-term commitments.
• Staff Augmentation: Premium rates to the provider, but inclusive of administrative overhead and compliance management.
• Project-Based: Fixed cost for defined deliverables, potentially most predictable budgeting.
• BOT: Higher initial investment with diminishing costs as operations transfer to your organization.

How to Legally Hire Structural Engineers in Spain

Employing structural engineers in Spain requires navigating specific legal frameworks. Two primary approaches are available to global companies:

Entity Establishment vs. Employer of Record (EOR)

Using an Employer of Record in Spain

For many organizations, an Employer of Record (EOR) solution offers the ideal balance of compliance and flexibility when hiring structural engineers in Spain. Employer of Record Spain services like Asanify manage all legal employer obligations while allowing you to direct the engineers’ daily work.

With an EOR, you can:

• Hire structural engineers compliantly without establishing a Spanish entity
• Ensure adherence to Spain’s complex labor laws and collective bargaining agreements
• Provide locally-compliant benefits packages that attract top engineering talent
• Manage payroll in accordance with Spanish tax regulations
• Scale your team up or down based on project demands without administrative burden

For companies needing specialized engineering talent without committing to permanent establishment, staff augmentation companies in Spain can provide a streamlined solution that combines technical expertise with administrative simplicity.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hiring Structural Engineers in Spain

Follow these key steps to successfully bring Spanish structural engineering talent into your organization:

Step 1: Define Your Requirements

Begin by clearly documenting your technical needs, project scope, and expected deliverables:

• Specific structural engineering specializations required (high-rise, bridge, seismic, etc.)
• Required software proficiency (SAP2000, ETABS, Revit, etc.)
• Experience level and necessary qualifications
• Project duration and time commitment (full-time, part-time)
• Spanish language requirements vs. English proficiency needs
• Remote work possibilities or on-site requirements

Step 2: Select the Appropriate Hiring Model

Based on your requirements, determine which hiring approach best serves your needs:

• Direct employment through a Spanish entity
• Employer of Record (EOR) service for compliant hiring without an entity
• Contractor arrangement for project-based work
• Staff augmentation through specialized engineering consultancies

Step 3: Source Qualified Candidates

Tap into Spain’s rich structural engineering talent pool through multiple channels:

• Spanish engineering job boards (Tecnoempleo, InfoJobs)
• Professional associations (Colegio de Ingenieros de Caminos, Canales y Puertos)
• Technical universities in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, and Seville
• LinkedIn and specialized engineering networks
• Engineering recruitment agencies with Spanish expertise
• Referrals from existing Spanish business connections

Step 4: Evaluate Technical Capabilities

Assess candidates through a structured process focused on technical skills:

• Portfolio review of past structural projects
• Technical interviews with senior structural engineers
• Practical design challenges or case studies
• Software proficiency demonstrations
• Verification of credentials and professional certifications

Step 5: Compliantly Onboard Your Structural Engineer

Complete the hiring process with careful attention to Spanish employment regulations:

• Prepare a compliant employment contract following Spanish labor law
• Register the engineer with Spanish social security authorities
• Establish required insurance coverage
• Set up locally-compliant payroll processes
• Conduct proper orientation to your company and projects

Working with Asanify’s EOR services can significantly streamline this final step, ensuring all compliance requirements are met without administrative burden on your team. Asanify handles the complex legal and payroll aspects while you focus on integrating the structural engineer into your projects.

Salary Benchmarks

Understanding competitive compensation for structural engineers in Spain is essential for attracting top talent. The following benchmarks reflect current market rates as of 2025:

Regional Variations

Salaries vary significantly by location within Spain:

• Madrid & Barcelona: 10-15% above national average
• Valencia & Seville: Approximately at the national average
• Smaller cities & rural areas: 10-20% below national average

Specialization Premiums

Certain specializations command salary premiums:

• Seismic Engineering: +5-10%
• Complex/Signature Structures: +10-15%
• BIM Management: +5-15%
• Offshore/Marine Structures: +15-20%

What Skills to Look for When Hiring Structural Engineers

To identify the most qualified structural engineering candidates in Spain, evaluate both technical expertise and soft skills:

Technical Skills

• Structural Analysis: Proficiency in applying engineering principles to analyze forces, stresses, and deflections in various structural systems
• Design Expertise: Capability to design structures that meet safety codes while optimizing material usage and constructability
• Code Compliance: Deep knowledge of Spanish Technical Building Code (CTE), Eurocodes, and international standards
• Computational Modeling: Advanced skills in structural analysis software including finite element analysis
• Material Expertise: Understanding of structural behavior and design requirements for concrete, steel, timber, and composite materials
• BIM Implementation: Experience with Building Information Modeling for structural design coordination
• Construction Documentation: Ability to produce clear, detailed structural drawings and specifications
• Seismic Engineering: Understanding of dynamic analysis and seismic design principles for Spain’s various seismic zones

Soft Skills

• Problem-Solving: Creative approaches to complex structural challenges
• Communication: Ability to explain technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders
• Collaboration: Experience working with multidisciplinary teams (architects, MEP engineers, contractors)
• Project Management: Organizational skills to handle deadlines, budgets, and resources
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust designs based on changing project requirements
• Attention to Detail: Precision in calculations and documentation where errors could have serious consequences
• Professional Ethics: Commitment to safety and professional responsibility

Key Certifications and Credentials

Look for these qualifications when evaluating Spanish structural engineering candidates:

• Master’s degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from accredited Spanish universities
• Membership in Colegio de Ingenieros de Caminos, Canales y Puertos (required for signing official documents)
• Professional Engineer certification or equivalent
• Specialized certifications in areas like seismic design, bridge engineering, or computational analysis
• Evidence of continuing professional development through workshops and courses

Legal and Compliance Considerations

Hiring structural engineers in Spain requires careful navigation of the country’s employment regulations and industry-specific requirements:

Employment Law Framework

Spanish labor law provides strong protections for employees with specific provisions that affect structural engineering roles:

• Employment contracts must comply with the Workers’ Statute (Estatuto de los Trabajadores)
• Collective bargaining agreements (convenios colectivos) often apply to engineering professions, establishing minimum salaries and working conditions
• Standard workweek is 40 hours with strict overtime regulations
• Minimum of 30 calendar days of paid vacation annually
• Termination procedures include mandatory notice periods and severance payments

Labour laws in Spain are comprehensive and protective of workers’ rights, requiring careful compliance by employers.

Professional Licensing Requirements

For structural engineers to practice legally in Spain:

• Registration with the appropriate professional college (colegio profesional) is mandatory for signing official structural designs
• Foreign qualifications must be officially recognized (homologación) by Spanish authorities
• Professional liability insurance is typically required
• Continuing education may be necessary to maintain professional standing

Tax and Social Security Obligations

Employers of structural engineers must comply with:

• Registration with Spanish tax authorities
• Monthly social security contributions (approximately 30% of gross salary)
• Income tax withholding requirements
• Annual reporting obligations

Understanding payroll & taxes in Spain is crucial for proper budget planning and compliance.

Intellectual Property Considerations

When hiring structural engineers, address:

• Clear IP assignment clauses in employment contracts
• Ownership of structural designs and calculations
• Confidentiality provisions regarding proprietary structural solutions
• Treatment of pre-existing intellectual property brought by the engineer

Asanify’s EOR service ensures compliance with all relevant labor laws, tax regulations, and mandatory benefits while helping you navigate Spain’s complex regulatory environment. This allows you to focus on the technical aspects of your projects while maintaining full legal compliance.

Common Challenges Global Employers Face

Companies hiring structural engineers in Spain often encounter several obstacles that require careful navigation:

Regulatory Complexity

Spain’s employment laws create a complex compliance landscape that can be difficult for foreign employers to navigate. Specific challenges include:

• Understanding mandatory benefits and entitlements under Spanish labor law
• Navigating collective bargaining agreements applicable to engineering professions
• Complying with work permit requirements for non-EU engineers
• Managing termination processes that include significant protection for employees

Professional Recognition and Qualification Verification

Engineering qualifications and their recognition can present hurdles:

• Verifying the equivalence of international engineering degrees to Spanish standards
• Understanding the role of professional colleges (colegios) in certifying engineers
• Navigating the documentation requirements for licensed structural engineering work
• Ensuring engineers are authorized to sign off on structural designs in Spain

Language and Communication Barriers

While many Spanish structural engineers have good English proficiency, challenges remain:

• Technical vocabulary differences between Spanish and English engineering terminology
• Communication nuances that can affect design interpretation
• Documentation often required in Spanish for official submissions
• Collaboration with local contractors who may have limited English proficiency

Cultural Differences in Work Practices

Spanish professional culture has distinct characteristics that may differ from other countries:

• Different approaches to project timelines and deadlines
• Work-life balance expectations that include longer lunch breaks but later workdays
• August vacation periods when many professionals take extended leave
• Relationship-focused business culture that values personal connection

Administrative Burden

The paperwork and processes involved can be substantial:

• Monthly payroll calculations with complex tax and social security components
• Mandatory reporting to various Spanish authorities
• Documentation requirements for expense reimbursement
• Record-keeping obligations under Spanish employment law

Asanify’s Employer of Record services address these challenges directly by managing the complex legal, administrative, and compliance aspects of employing structural engineers in Spain. This allows your company to focus on the technical and project aspects while Asanify handles the intricate employment details.

Best Practices for Managing Remote Structural Engineers in Spain

Effectively integrating Spanish structural engineers into your global team requires thoughtful approaches to communication, collaboration, and cultural awareness:

Communication Strategies

• Establish Clear Communication Protocols: Define preferred channels for different types of interactions (design discussions, quick questions, formal approvals)
• Schedule Regular Check-ins: Hold consistent video meetings to review progress and address questions
• Document Key Decisions: Maintain written records of important design decisions and project requirements
• Provide Bilingual Resources: Offer technical documentation in both English and Spanish when possible
• Consider Time Zone Advantages: Spain’s time zone allows for morning overlap with Americas and afternoon overlap with Asia

Collaboration Tools and Techniques

• Implement Cloud-Based Design Platforms: Use shared modeling environments that enable real-time collaboration
• Establish Version Control Systems: Maintain clear processes for managing design iterations and document revisions
• Utilize Visual Communication: Leverage screen sharing, marked-up drawings, and 3D models to overcome language barriers
• Create Digital Design Libraries: Develop standardized component libraries that ensure consistency across team members
• Implement Project Management Software: Track deliverables, deadlines, and responsibilities through shared platforms

Cultural Awareness and Team Integration

• Respect Spanish Business Hours: Accommodate longer lunch breaks (2:00-4:00 PM) and later workday endings
• Acknowledge Holiday Schedules: Plan for Spanish national holidays and traditional vacation periods (particularly August)
• Understand Communication Styles: Spanish professionals often appreciate direct feedback within relationship-focused interactions
• Recognize Professional Pride: Acknowledge the strong professional identity and standards held by Spanish engineers
• Include Remote Team Members: Make special efforts to integrate Spanish engineers into company culture and team activities

Technical Review Processes

• Establish Clear Design Standards: Document project-specific requirements and applicable codes
• Implement Staged Reviews: Schedule concept, development, and final reviews with appropriate stakeholders
• Maintain Digital Markup Systems: Use collaborative review tools for commenting on designs
• Create Multilingual Glossaries: Develop project-specific technical term references to ensure consistent understanding
• Document Quality Control Procedures: Clearly outline checking protocols and approval processes

Performance Management

• Set Clear Expectations: Define deliverables, quality standards, and timelines explicitly
• Provide Regular Feedback: Offer both formal reviews and informal guidance
• Recognize Achievements: Acknowledge contributions and excellent work
• Support Professional Development: Encourage continuing education and specialization
• Balance Autonomy and Oversight: Allow engineering judgment while maintaining appropriate supervision

Why Use Asanify to Hire Structural Engineers in Spain

Asanify provides a comprehensive Employer of Record (EOR) solution specifically designed for companies looking to hire specialized talent like structural engineers in Spain without the complexity of establishing a local entity.

Streamlined Hiring Without Legal Complexity

• Hire structural engineers in days rather than months, bypassing entity setup
• Eliminate the need for local incorporation, bank accounts, and registration procedures
• Maintain direct working relationships while Asanify handles the legal employer responsibilities
• Scale your engineering team up or down with flexibility as project demands change

Complete Compliance Management

• 100% compliance with Spanish labor laws, including the Workers’ Statute and relevant collective agreements
• Expert management of complex Spanish employment contracts and mandatory provisions
• Proper handling of all tax withholding and social security contributions
• Risk mitigation for contractor misclassification issues
• Regular updates when regulations change to maintain ongoing compliance

Comprehensive Employment Administration

• Full payroll processing in compliance with Spanish regulations
• Administration of all statutory benefits and entitlements
• Management of expense reimbursements according to local requirements
• Time-off tracking and approval workflows
• Documentation and record-keeping that meets Spanish legal standards

Competitive Benefits Administration

• Implementation of attractive benefits packages that help recruit top structural engineering talent
• Management of supplemental health insurance and retirement options
• Administration of bonus and incentive programs
• Guidance on market-competitive compensation for various engineering specialties

Dedicated Local Expertise

• Access to HR specialists with specific knowledge of Spanish engineering employment practices
• Ongoing support from dedicated account managers familiar with your business needs
• Assistance with cultural integration and communication best practices
• Guidance on professional licensing and qualification requirements for structural engineers

By partnering with Asanify, you can focus on the technical aspects of your structural engineering projects while we handle all employment complexities, ensuring your engineers are properly hired, paid, and supported within full compliance of Spanish regulations.

FAQs: Hiring Structural Engineers in Spain

What qualifications should I look for in Spanish structural engineers?

Look for candidates with a master’s degree in civil or structural engineering from accredited Spanish universities. Professional registration with the Colegio de Ingenieros de Caminos, Canales y Puertos is essential for engineers who will sign official documents. Experience with Eurocodes and Spanish Technical Building Code (CTE) is also valuable. For specialized roles, seek candidates with relevant project experience and software proficiency in tools like SAP2000, ETABS, or Revit Structure.

How much does it cost to hire a structural engineer in Spain?

Annual salaries for structural engineers in Spain typically range from €25,000-€35,000 for junior engineers, €35,000-€50,000 for mid-level professionals, and €50,000-€90,000+ for senior engineers and specialists. When hiring through an Employer of Record like Asanify, additional costs include statutory benefits (approximately 30% of salary) and EOR service fees (typically 5-10% of total employment costs), providing full compliance and administration.

Do I need to establish a legal entity in Spain to hire structural engineers?

No, establishing a legal entity is not required. Using an Employer of Record (EOR) service like Asanify allows you to hire Spanish structural engineers compliantly without setting up a local entity. The EOR becomes the legal employer while you maintain day-to-day work direction. This approach eliminates the time, cost, and complexity of entity establishment while ensuring full compliance with Spanish labor laws.

What are the mandatory benefits for engineers employed in Spain?

Mandatory benefits include social security contributions (covering healthcare, pension, unemployment insurance, and disability coverage), 14 monthly payments per year (including extra payments in July and December), a minimum of 30 calendar days of paid vacation, paid public holidays (typically 14 per year), maternity leave (16 weeks), paternity leave (16 weeks), and various leaves for family circumstances. Some engineers may also be covered by collective bargaining agreements with additional benefits.

How long does it take to hire a structural engineer in Spain?

The hiring timeline varies based on your approach. Using an EOR like Asanify allows you to hire in as little as 1-2 weeks. This includes candidate selection, contract preparation, and onboarding. In contrast, establishing a legal entity first would extend this timeline to 3-6 months before hiring could begin. The recruitment process for specialized structural engineers typically takes 4-8 weeks depending on seniority and specialization.

Can I hire Spanish structural engineers to work remotely for my company?

Yes, Spanish structural engineers can work remotely for foreign companies. However, proper employment arrangements must be in place. Using an Employer of Record like Asanify ensures compliance with Spanish labor laws while allowing engineers to work remotely. This arrangement handles all legal obligations, taxes, and mandatory benefits while you maintain work direction and integration with your team.

What is the typical notice period for structural engineers in Spain?

Standard notice periods in Spain are 15 calendar days, though senior engineering positions often have longer periods (30-60 days) specified in their contracts. When hiring through Asanify’s EOR service, we manage the entire termination process according to Spanish labor law requirements, including proper notice, documentation, and any required severance payments based on tenure and contract terms.

How are intellectual property rights handled when hiring Spanish engineers?

In Spain, employment contracts should explicitly address intellectual property (IP) rights. Generally, IP created during employment and related to job responsibilities belongs to the employer. When hiring through Asanify, we ensure employment contracts include comprehensive IP assignment clauses that protect your company’s rights to engineering designs, calculations, and other technical outputs while complying with Spanish intellectual property law.

What software platforms are commonly used by structural engineers in Spain?

Spanish structural engineers typically use a combination of international and European software. Common structural analysis programs include SAP2000, ETABS, ROBOT Structural Analysis, and CYPE. For BIM implementation, Revit Structure and Tekla Structures are widely used. Spanish engineers also often work with AutoCAD for drafting and detailing. Many are familiar with specialized tools for particular applications (CSiBridge for bridge design, RAM for steel, etc.).

How does hiring through an EOR like Asanify work for structural engineering roles?

When hiring through Asanify, you select your preferred candidate while we handle all employment formalities. Asanify becomes the legal employer in Spain, managing contracts, payroll, benefits, tax withholding, and compliance requirements. You maintain full control over the engineer’s daily work, projects, and technical direction. This arrangement provides the security of compliant employment while eliminating the administrative burden and compliance risks associated with direct hiring.

What are the termination requirements for structural engineers in Spain?

Termination in Spain follows strict regulations protecting employees. Requirements include proper notice (typically 15-30 days), documented justification for dismissal, and severance payments based on tenure and termination type. Unfair dismissal can result in significant additional costs. When using Asanify’s EOR services, we guide you through compliant termination processes, handling all legal requirements and documentation while minimizing risks of claims or disputes.

Can I convert contractors to employees for structural engineering roles in Spain?

Yes, converting contractors to employees is possible and often advisable to avoid misclassification risks. Asanify can facilitate this transition smoothly, handling all necessary documentation, registration with authorities, and establishment of proper employment relationships. This conversion provides better legal protection for both parties and ensures compliance with Spanish labor regulations that strictly distinguish between employment and independent contracting.

Conclusion

Hiring structural engineers in Spain offers global companies access to exceptional technical talent with strong qualifications, diverse experience, and competitive costs. Spanish structural engineers bring valuable expertise in seismic design, complex structures, historic preservation, and innovative solutions that can significantly enhance your projects worldwide.

However, navigating Spain’s complex employment laws, professional requirements, and administrative procedures can present challenges for foreign companies. The decision between establishing a legal entity and using an Employer of Record solution depends on your long-term strategy, hiring volume, and risk tolerance.

For most organizations, especially those hiring select specialists or testing the Spanish market, an EOR service like Asanify provides the ideal balance of compliance, flexibility, and administrative simplicity. This approach allows you to:

• Access Spain’s rich structural engineering talent pool without legal complexity
• Ensure full compliance with Spanish employment regulations and tax requirements
• Provide competitive, locally-appropriate compensation and benefits
• Scale your team according to project needs without fixed infrastructure
• Focus on technical excellence and project delivery rather than administrative burden

Whether you’re looking to hire a single specialized structural engineer or build a complete engineering team in Spain, understanding the local landscape and choosing the right hiring approach will set your projects up for success while minimizing risks and complications.

Not to be considered as tax, legal, financial or HR advice. Regulations change over time so please consult a lawyer, accountant  or Labour Law  expert for specific guidance.