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Army Combat Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Previous experience supporting MCTP, Combat Training Centers (CTCs), or other large-scale Army training events. * Operational experience at Division, Corps, or higher headquarters levels. Working ...

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Army Combat Engineer information

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$31K

$95.8K

$127.5K

How much do army combat engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for army combat engineer in the United States is $95,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,000.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Army Combat Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Army Combat Engineer, you need strong physical fitness, problem-solving abilities, and foundational knowledge of engineering principles, typically supported by completion of military training such as Advanced Individual Training (AIT) for engineers. Familiarity with demolition tools, construction equipment, and military mapping software is essential for performing complex field operations. Leadership, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating with team members under high-pressure situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring mission success, safety, and the efficient execution of engineering tasks in challenging environments.

What engineers make $500,000?

While most engineering roles do not typically reach a $500,000 annual salary, some specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior software engineering positions can approach or exceed this level with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-level executives or engineers in leadership roles at large corporations may also earn such compensation packages.

What do you do as a Combat Engineer in the Army?

A Combat Engineer in the Army is responsible for constructing and repairing roads, bridges, and fortifications, as well as clearing obstacles and explosive devices. They often work in challenging environments and require skills in demolition, construction, and combat tactics, with certifications in explosives and engineering techniques. Their duties support mobility, counter-mobility, and survivability on the battlefield.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

High-paying engineering roles that can reach $200,000 annually include specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior software engineering positions. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes professional certifications, and they typically involve working in high-demand industries or leadership positions.

What are Army Combat Engineers?

Army Combat Engineers are specialized soldiers responsible for a wide range of construction and demolition tasks on the battlefield. Their duties include building and repairing roads, bridges, and field fortifications, as well as clearing obstacles and detecting or neutralizing explosives and landmines. They play a critical role in supporting infantry and armored units by ensuring mobility and safety during both offensive and defensive operations. Combat Engineers are also trained to operate heavy machinery and handle dangerous materials under combat conditions.

Is Combat Engineer hard to get?

Becoming a Combat Engineer in the military requires meeting specific enlistment criteria, including physical fitness, education, and passing aptitude tests. The selection process can be competitive, and candidates often undergo training to develop skills in construction, demolition, and combat tactics. Prior experience or certifications in related fields can improve chances of qualification.

What is the difference between Army Combat Engineer vs Army Engineer?

AspectArmy Combat EngineerArmy Engineer
CertificationsBasic Combat Engineer training, specialized demolition, construction, and combat skillsEngineering degrees or certifications, focus on construction and infrastructure projects
Work EnvironmentCombat zones, field operations, construction sites in military settingsConstruction sites, military bases, infrastructure projects
Employer & IndustryU.S. Army, military operationsU.S. Army, military engineering units

Army Combat Engineers focus on combat-related construction, demolition, and obstacle clearance in active military zones, while Army Engineers handle infrastructure and construction projects within military bases and civilian settings. Both roles require engineering knowledge but differ mainly in operational environment and specific duties.

What are some common challenges faced by Army Combat Engineers during their missions?

Army Combat Engineers often encounter challenges such as working in hazardous environments, adapting quickly to changing combat situations, and handling complex equipment under pressure. They are responsible for tasks like clearing obstacles, constructing fortifications, and detecting or disposing of explosives, which requires both technical skill and mental resilience. Effective teamwork and communication are crucial, as engineers regularly collaborate with infantry units and other specialists to ensure mission success and troop safety.
More about Army Combat Engineer jobs
What states have the most Army Combat Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Army Combat Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Army Combat Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,796 per year, or $46.1 per hour.
Entry Level Horizontal Construction Engineer

Entry Level Horizontal Construction Engineer

U.S. Army

Philadelphia, PA • Remote

$24K - $30K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


United States Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 481 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Horizontal Construction Engineer (12N)
 
Overview
Horizontal construction engineers use bulldozers, cranes, graders and other heavy equipment to move tons of earth and material to complete construction projects for the Army. 
They are also responsible for operating tractors with dozer attachments, scoop loaders, backhoe loaders, hydraulic excavators, motorized graders and scrapers. 
Why the U.S. Army
  • Professional Growth: Engage in continued learning, training, and career advancement opportunities. 
  • Diverse Opportunities: From combat medic specialists to medical officers, choose a role that fits your passion and expertise. 
  • Community: Join a tight-knit community prioritizing camaraderie, service, and mutual support. 
 
Job Duties
  • Analyze the information on grade stakes and placing them
  • Drive bulldozers, roadgraders and other heavy equipment to level earth 
  • Clear, grub, strip, excavate, backfill, stockpile and push scraper with tractor crawler
  • Cut and spread fill material with scraper
  • Transport heavy construction equipment with tractor-trailer
  • Assist in performance of combat engineer missions

Requirements
Those who want to serve must first take the ASBAV, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.
Training
Job training for horizontal construction engineer requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and nine weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field with on-the-job instructions.
Some of the skills you’ll learn are:
  • Operation of different types of construction and rough terrain equipment
  • Maintenance and repair of equipment
  • Identification of soil types and placement of grade stakes

Helpful Skills
  • Interest in operating heavy construction equipment
  • Preference for working outdoors
  • Interest in working with your hands

Required ASVAB Score(s)
General Maintenance (GM): 90
Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.
Compensation
Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.
Earn Cash For In Demand Jobs
You could earn up to $40,000 in cash bonuses just for enlisting under certain Military Occupational Specialties. Visit Jobs in Demand to see if this job qualifies for an enlistment bonus.
Education Benefits
In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.
Future Civilian Careers
The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with building contractors, state highway agencies, rock quarries, well drillers and construction firms.
PARTNERSHIP FOR YOUTH SUCCESS (PaYS) Program
Those interested in this job may be eligible for civilian employment, after the Army, by enrolling in the Army PaYS program. The PaYS program is a recruitment option that guarantees a job interview with military friendly employers that are looking for experienced and trained Veterans to join their organization. Find out more about the Army PaYS Program at http://www.armypays.com.
  • AT&T, Inc.
  • Hewlett-Packard Company
  • Kraft Foods Global, Inc.
  • Sears Holdings Corporation
  • Time Customer Service, Inc.
  • Walgreen Co.

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About US Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Arlington, VA, US

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