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Associate Civil Engineer Jobs in Hickory, NC (NOW HIRING)

McGill Associates, PA

Engineering Intern

Hickory, NC · On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

McGill is a civil engineering firm fostering long-term relationships with the communities that we serve in North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Virginia since 1984. We pride ourselves on ...

New

Metronet

Construction Manager - Hickory, NC

Hickory, NC · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... civil engineering preferred * Equivalent experience will be considered * Strong knowledge of ... We value our associates because they are the cornerstone of our success. By joining the Metronet ...

MetroNet

Construction Manager - Hickory, NC

Hickory, NC · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... civil engineering preferred * Equivalent experience will be considered * Strong knowledge of ... We value our associates because they are the cornerstone of our success. By joining the Metronet ...

All JobsAssociate Civil Engineer JobsAssociate Civil Engineer Jobs in Hickory, NC

Associate Civil Engineer information

See Hickory, NC salary details

$46.1K

$89.5K

$137.9K

How much do associate civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate civil engineer in Hickory, NC is $89,533.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,600.00 and $106,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate civil engineer?

Associate Civil Engineers are professionals who assist in the planning, design, and oversight of construction and infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers and are responsible for preparing reports, analyzing project data, and ensuring that engineering standards and safety regulations are met. This role is often considered an intermediate position, requiring a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and, in some cases, an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification. Associate Civil Engineers play a key role in the successful completion of projects by coordinating with contractors, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate civil engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Civil Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, and an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or equivalent. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and project management systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These capabilities ensure high-quality engineering solutions, efficient project delivery, and productive collaboration with clients and multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by associate civil engineers early in their careers?

Early-career Associate Civil Engineers often encounter the challenge of balancing technical tasks with project coordination responsibilities. They may need to quickly adapt to working on multiple projects simultaneously, managing deadlines, and communicating effectively with both senior engineers and construction teams. Navigating regulatory requirements and ensuring design compliance can also be demanding. However, these challenges provide valuable learning opportunities and help build a strong foundation for future advancement within the civil engineering field.

What is the difference between Associate Civil Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectAssociate Civil EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field; some roles may require engineering internship experienceBachelor's degree in civil engineering; often requires passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
Work EnvironmentEntry-level position, often assisting senior engineers on projects, working in offices or construction sitesDesign, planning, and oversight of civil projects; work in offices, field sites, or both
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by engineering firms, government agencies, and construction companies for entry-level rolesCommonly used across engineering firms, government departments, and infrastructure projects

The main difference between an Associate Civil Engineer and a Civil Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. An Associate Civil Engineer is typically an entry-level role focusing on assisting with project tasks, while a Civil Engineer has more experience and may lead projects or design work. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but Civil Engineers usually have greater responsibilities and independence in their work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs in Hickory, NC?

The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Hickory, NC are:

What cities near Hickory, NC are hiring for Associate Civil Engineer jobs?

Cities near Hickory, NC with the most Associate Civil Engineer job openings:

Associate Civil Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Civil Engineer job openings in Hickory, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,533 per year, or $43 per hour.

Engineering Intern

McGill Associates, PA

Hickory, NC • On-site

$15 - $19.50/hr

Full-time, Internship

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

McGill is a civil engineering firm fostering long-term relationships with the communities that we serve in North Carolina, Tennessee, South Carolina, and Virginia since 1984. We pride ourselves on transforming the communities where we live and work and our employees are critical to our success.

Interns will integrate knowledge and theory learned in the classroom with practical application and skill development in a professional setting. Involvement is based on the individual’s level of experience. Efforts are made for assignments to develop engineering skills and prepare the intern for future full-time employment. Interns are responsible for performing tasks requiring the application of standard engineering techniques and procedures within their discipline. This includes standard design of project work, assisting Project Engineers with various project duties, and other duties as assigned

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Intern job responsibilities may include the following dependent upon team placement and interests:

· Projects may include drafting and design of site layouts, site access layout, grading and earthwork calculations, utility routing and coordination, storm drainage, stormwater management, erosion and sediment control, site utilities, water / wastewater treatment plant design, linear design including water and sewer lines, electrical controls, etc.

· Assist in the development of permitting and final documents.

· Assist in the construction administration process including coordination with field personnel to resolve design related installation issues, the review of contractor shop drawings and calculations, field inspections, and testing of utility systems.

· Assist in performing site evaluations and documenting existing site features and utility systems.

· Assist in the preparation and evaluation of project budgets and cost estimates.

· Assist with ad hoc projects as assigned by managers.

· Assist in design reports and construction plans.

· Assist with the coordinate preparation of specifications and permit submittals.

· Assist in the preparation of preliminary project cost estimates and evaluate quantities.

· Document design changes and communications.

· Conduct on-site inspections as needed.

Qualifications

  • Must be enrolled in Civil or Environmental Engineering or a related field; preference is given to rising Juniors and Seniors.

· Experience in AutoCAD – Civil 3D preferred.

· Proficiency in commonly used computer software (Word, Excel, Outlook).

· Excellent writing and communication skills.

· Valid driver’s license.

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