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Airport Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lochner

Senior Airport Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$125K - $170K/yr

Role Overview As a Design Engineer, you can experience the following: * National and International Aviation Exposure: Work on cutting‑edge projects across national and global airports. * Career ...

Lochner

Airport Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

Lochner

Airport Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$105K - $140K/yr

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

MASTER HW LOCHNER INC

Airport Design Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

Lochner

Airport Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site +1

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

Lochner

Airport Design Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site +1

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

Lochner

Airport Design Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site +1

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

MASTER HW LOCHNER INC

Airport Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

Lochner

Airport Design Engineer

Oklahoma City, OK · On-site +1

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

Lochner

Airport Design Engineer

Lenexa, KS · On-site +1

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

Lochner

Senior Airport Design Engineer

Mesa, AZ · On-site +1

$89K - $123K/yr

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

Lochner

Senior Airport Design Engineer

Kansas City, MO · On-site +1

$102K - $140K/yr

Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc. * Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract ...

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Airport Design Engineer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do airport design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for airport design engineer in the United States is $88,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an airport design engineer?

Airport Design Engineers are specialized civil engineers who plan, design, and oversee the construction and maintenance of airport facilities, including runways, taxiways, terminals, and support infrastructure. They ensure that airport layouts comply with aviation regulations and safety standards, and work closely with architects, government agencies, and contractors throughout the project lifecycle. Their expertise helps facilitate efficient airport operations, accommodate future growth, and enhance passenger safety and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an airport design engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airport Design Engineer, you need a strong background in civil engineering, airport planning, and regulatory standards, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and licensure (such as a PE). Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and knowledge of FAA or ICAO standards are typically required. Strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex design challenges. These skills are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant airport infrastructure that meets both operational and regulatory requirements.

What are some typical challenges airport design engineers face during the planning and construction phases of airport projects?

Airport Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders—including regulatory agencies, airlines, and local communities—to ensure compliance with safety standards and operational requirements. Balancing the technical demands of runway, taxiway, and terminal design with environmental considerations and budget constraints is also common. Additionally, adapting designs to accommodate future expansion and evolving aviation technology can add complexity to projects. Successful engineers excel at clear communication, proactive problem-solving, and staying updated on industry best practices.

What is the difference between Airport Design Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectAirport Design EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, specialized training in airport designBachelor's in Civil Engineering, professional engineering license
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, airports, transportation agenciesConstruction sites, consulting firms, government agencies
Industry UsageFocused on airport infrastructure projectsBroad, including roads, bridges, buildings

While both roles require civil engineering fundamentals, Airport Design Engineers specialize in designing airport-specific infrastructure such as runways, taxiways, and terminals, whereas Civil Engineers work on a wider range of infrastructure projects. The roles often overlap in skills and credentials but differ in project focus and industry application.

What cities are hiring for Airport Design Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Airport Design Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Airport Design Engineer jobs?

For Airport Design Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Airport Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airport Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.

Senior Airport Design Engineer

Sacramento, CA • On-site

Lochner
Civil Engineering Construction • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Lochnerexternal

$125K - $170K/yr

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Level: Experienced. Location: Mesa, AZ 85210. Position Type: Full Time. Education Level: 4 Year Degree. Salary Range: $125,000 – $170,000/year.

Are you ready to take your career to new heights in the dynamic world of airport design and development? Lochner is seeking passionate and driven professionals to join our expanding aviation team. This is your opportunity to work on high-impact national and international airport projects, lead multidisciplinary teams, and grow into a leadership role within a respected and forward-thinking engineering firm.

Role Overview

As a Design Engineer, you can experience the following:

  • National and International Aviation Exposure: Work on cutting‑edge projects across national and global airports.
  • Career Development Opportunities: Engage in continuous learning within a thriving aviation environment.
  • Leadership Opportunities: Contribute to and lead initiatives in airport design practice.
Responsibilities

Your Impact:

  • Design of airport engineering projects including runways, taxiways, aprons, airfield lighting, navigational aids, etc.
  • Preparation of engineering design reports, construction plans, and contract documents / technical specifications.
  • Experience in design of general civil engineering projects including site design, sanitary wastewater, water and hydraulic evaluation a plus.
Qualifications
  • B.S. Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Professional Engineer (PE designation) preferred.
  • 8+ years of experience in the civil engineering field; aviation related experience and knowledge of FAA criteria a plus.
  • Ability to coordinate multiple project tasks.
  • Self‑motivated and able to handle a fast‑paced position.
  • Goal and deadline orientated.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Microsoft Office.
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