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Associate Civil Engineer Jobs in Poway, CA (NOW HIRING)

... associate engineer. Our practice focuses on the planning and design of water, wastewater, and ... Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and/or Master of Science in Civil/Environmental ...

NV5's Southern California Water/Wastewater Practice has an exciting opportunity for an associate ... Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and/or Master of Science in Civil/Environmental ...

Structural Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

DH Glabe & Associates (www.dhglabe.com) is looking for a well-qualified structural engineer who is ... A candidate who has experience performing structural design and investigation of heavy civil ...

Structural Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$60K - $100K/yr

DH Glabe & Associates (www.dhglabe.com) is looking for a well-qualified structural engineer who is ... A candidate who has experience performing structural design and investigation of heavy civil ...

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Spear & Associates, Inc. - San Diego, CA About Us Spear & Associates, Inc., a well-established civil engineering and land surveying firm serving North San Diego County for over 30 years, provides ...

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Associate Civil Engineer information

See Poway, CA salary details

$52.7K

$102.3K

$157.5K

How much do associate civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate civil engineer in Poway, CA is $102,297.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,200.00 and $121,700.00 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 Poway, CA?

The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Poway, CA are:

What cities near Poway, CA are hiring for Associate Civil Engineer jobs?

Cities near Poway, CA with the most Associate Civil Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Civil Engineer job openings in Poway, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,297 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Associate Water/Wastewater Engineer

NV5

San Diego, CA • On-site

$85K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

142nd of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
NV5's Southern California Water/Wastewater Practice has an exciting opportunity for an associate engineer. Our practice focuses on the planning and design of water, wastewater, and recycled water infrastructure. We produce sustainable and innovative projects that assist disadvantaged communities with access to safe drinking water and promote sustainable water resources through water recycling and indirect potable reuse.
Our primary mission is to create a lasting impact on society. We believe that every individual should have access to clean and safe drinking water, regardless of their circumstances. With this in mind, we take a two-fold approach to our mission: access to safe drinking water & sustainable water resources. By designing and implementing innovative water infrastructure projects, we actively contribute to this fundamental goal. In addition to providing immediate access to clean water, we are deeply committed to the sustainable management of water resources. This includes the promotion of water recycling and the implementation of indirect potable reuse initiatives. By taking a forward-thinking approach, we aim to mitigate water scarcity and secure the future of our planet's most vital resource.
Responsibilities
  • Work within a team of highly experienced and creative engineers to problem solve, analyze, and evaluate projects from planning through construction.
  • Prepare Preliminary Engineering Reports, Plans, Specifications and Estimates for challenging drinking water, wastewater, and recycled water infrastructure, including for:
    • Drinking water infrastructure: wells, storage tanks, pipelines, pump stations, pressure reducing stations, and water treatment facilities.
    • Wastewater infrastructure: wastewater treatment facilities, pump stations, and pipelines.
    • Recycled water infrastructure: storage tanks, pipelines, pump stations, and pressure-reducing stations.
    • Prepare master planning reports and hydraulic models.
  • Assist in marketing business opportunities with key clients and development of responses to RFP/RFQs.
  • Participate in local professional organizations.
  • Develop long-term relationships with clients
  • Assist clients with permitting and infrastructure financing applications
  • Mentor junior and assistant engineers
  • Presentations to governing boards and city councils
  • Work with local and state regulatory agencies for project permitting, funding, etc.
  • Travel to project sites and client meetings, with occasional overnight stays required
  • Coordinate with other disciplines for project development, including geotechnical engineering, land surveying, electrical engineering, and structural engineering.

Qualifications
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and/or Master of Science in Civil/Environmental Engineering with concentration in water/wastewater
  • 3-8 years of progressive relative water/wastewater infrastructure design experience
  • Professional Engineer license required, California PE preferred or ability to obtain a California PE license within a year if licensed in another state
  • Working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, AutoCAD Civil 3D, Innovyze InfoSewer/InfoWater, and ArcGIS
  • Understanding of hydraulics and pipe networks
  • Participation in professional societies (e.g. American Society of Civil Engineers, Water for People, Engineers Without Borders, American Public Works Association, etc.)

The pay range for this position in California is $85,000 to $120,000 per year. Base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and location of the candidate. Restricted stock units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to a full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the position offered.
All local employment laws apply. Base pay information is based on market location. Applicants should apply via the NV5 careers site.
NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.
NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
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About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US