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Associate Civil Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Associate Civil Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$143K - $173K/yr

As an Associate Civil Engineer, you'll have the opportunity to apply your engineering knowledge and experience toward the creation and maintenance of state-of-the-art infrastructure, amenities, and ...

Associate Civil Engineer

Lakewood, WA · On-site

$8.5K - $10K/mo

As an Associate Civil Engineer, you will have the opportunity to develop your skills and expertise through review of public and private development projects, oversight of maintenance and operations ...

Associate/Senior Civil Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

$109K - $160K/yr

The Associate Civil Engineer will perform and participate in professional and technical advanced journey level civil engineering activities of a complex nature which may involve both general civil ...

Associate Civil Engineer

Helena, MT · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Associate Civil Engineer Location: Helena, MT, USA About Woith Engineering, Inc.: Established in 1978, Woith Engineering, Inc. is a renowned full-service civil engineering and land surveying firm ...

Associate Civil Engineer

Great Falls, MT · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Associate Civil Engineer Location: Great Falls, MT, USA About Woith Engineering, Inc.: Established in 1978, Woith Engineering, Inc. is a renowned full-service civil engineering and land surveying ...

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Associate Civil Engineer information

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$51.5K

$100K

$154K

How much do associate civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate civil engineer in the United States is $100,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

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 Associate Civil Engineers?

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 jobs can I do with an Associates in civil engineering?

An associate's degree in civil engineering prepares individuals for roles such as civil engineering technician, construction inspector, survey technician, or site inspector. These positions involve assisting with project design, site analysis, and construction supervision, often requiring knowledge of CAD software and safety standards.

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.

Is an Associates in civil engineering worth it?

An associate's degree in civil engineering can provide foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level positions such as civil engineering technician or assistant. However, for most civil engineering roles, a bachelor's degree is typically required for advancement and higher responsibility tasks.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior civil engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost areas or with additional bonuses and profit-sharing. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, management responsibilities, and a strong track record of project success.

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.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Associate civil engineers typically earn salaries well below $500,000 annually, with top earners in senior or specialized roles possibly reaching higher six-figure incomes. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, management responsibilities, or working in high-paying sectors such as infrastructure or consulting firms. Factors like location, project scope, and industry demand influence earning potential.
More about Associate Civil Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Associate Civil Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Associate Civil Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Associate Civil Engineer jobs? The top employers for Associate Civil Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Associate Civil Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Associate Civil Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Associate Civil Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,000 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer/Civil Engineer/Senior Civil Engineer (DOQ)

City of Hanford, CA

Hanford, CA • On-site

$91K - $149K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Salary : $91,344.00 - $149,652.00 Annually
Location : Utilities & Engineering, 900 S. 10th Avenue, Hanford, CA 93230, CA
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 25/26-42
Department: Utilities and Engineering
Division: Admin/Engineering
Opening Date: 06/02/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
DESCRIPTION
The City of Hanford is seeking a qualified engineering professional to join the Utilities & Engineering Department - Engineering Division. The City will fill one (1) vacancy at the Associate Engineer, Associate Civil Engineer, Civil Engineer, or Senior Civil Engineer level, depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.
ASSOCIATE ENGINEER ($7,612 - $9,252/month)
Under general direction, performs professional engineering work and related responsibilities on a variety of municipal and private development projects, including capital improvement project (CIP) contracts, and provides general and technical support to lower-level engineering staff.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is the advanced entry-level classification in the professional engineering series. Incumbents perform a range of professional engineering duties under general supervision and are typically assigned projects of a higher degree of scope and complexity. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied and increasingly complex. Positions in this class may provide limited supervision and training to assigned lower-level engineering staff.
This class can be distinguished from the Associate Civil Engineer by the latter's responsibility for independently managing projects, making technical decisions, obtaining Professional Engineering certification, and performing the full range of professional engineering duties.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction and supervision from the Senior Engineer or City Engineer. May provide limited supervision duties over assigned lower-level engineering staff.
The position may provide engineering services to departments outside of the Utilities and Engineering Department and, as such, may receive direction from that department's respective staff.
ASSOCIATE CIVIL ENGINEER ($8,408 - $10,220/month)
Under general direction, performs professional civil engineering work on a variety of municipal and private development projects; administers capital improvement project (CIP) contracts; and provides professional-level support to assigned management staff.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is the advanced journey-level classification in the professional engineering series. Incumbents perform the full range of professional engineering duties and are responsible for independently managing assigned projects and making technical decisions. Positions at this level require California Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or registration as a Professional Civil Engineer
This class is distinguished from the Associate Engineer by greater independence, technical responsibility, and accountability for engineering decisions and project outcomes.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction from a Senior Civil Engineer or the City Engineer.
Provides limited supervisorial duties as assigned to lower-level engineering staff.
May provide engineering services to other City departments and, in those instances, may receive functional direction from assigned departmental staff.
CIVIL ENGINEER ($9,288 - $11,290/month)
Under general direction, performs complex professional civil engineering work involving the design, investigation, development, and construction of private and public infrastructure, projects; provides technical expertise; and performs related duties as assigned.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is an advanced journey-level classification in the engineering series. Positions at this level exercise a high degree of independent judgment and discretion in applying engineering principles and making decisions within established guidelines. This class is distinguished from the Senior Civil Engineer by the latter's broader supervisory responsibilities and higher-level program oversight.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction from the Senior Civil Engineer and/or City Engineer.
Provide lead direction, training, and technical guidance to professional and technical staff.
SENIOR CIVIL ENGINEER ($10,260 - $12,471/month)
Under general direction, plans, organizes, directs, and oversees complex engineering projects and programs, including capital improvement and land development activities; provides technical and functional supervision to assigned staff; and performs highly responsible professional engineering work in support of City operations.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
This is the advanced-level classification in the engineering series. Positions at this level are responsible for managing high-profile and complex projects and programs, exercising a high degree of independent judgment, and providing supervision and technical leadership over professional and technical staff. This class is distinguished from the City Engineer by its greater emphasis on program management, supervisory responsibility, and decision-making authority.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives general direction from the City Engineer. Provides supervision, training, and technical direction to assigned professional and technical staff. May provide engineering services to other City departments and, in those instances, may receive functional direction from assigned department staff.
EXAMPLE OF ESSENTIAL DUTIES
ASSOCIATE ENGINEER
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Assist in the design and preparation of plans and specifications for CIP.
Prepare staff reports, presentations, agendas, correspondence, and research requiring knowledge of professional engineering principles and techniques.
Assist in administering professional and construction project contracts, agreements, and coordinate project meetings.
Coordinate with consultants, contractors, public agencies, and utility providers.
Conduct field inspections and consultations with property owners, contractors, inspectors, utility companies, and other City officials.
Assist the general public with engineering-related inquiries.
Support project management activities, including tracking budgets and schedules.
Prepare cost estimates, specifications, and final reports.
Perform engineering studies and analysis under direction.
Review and approve onsite and offsite improvement plans associated with the issuance of permits for private commercial, residential, and industrial developments.
Serve on the Site Plan Review committee, conduct research, and establish conditions of approval.
Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other public agency employees, and the public using principles of good customer service.
Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect.
Be an integral team player, demonstrating flexibility, cooperation, and communication.
Perform related duties as assigned.
ASSOCIATE CIVIL ENGINEER
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Oversee the design and preparation of plans and specifications for CIP.
Prepare staff reports, presentations, agendas, correspondence, and technical documentation.
Administer professional services and construction contracts, including oversight of scope, schedule, and budget.
Coordinate and direct the work of consultants, contractors, public agencies, and utility providers.
Conduct field inspections and consultations with property owners, contractors, inspectors, utility representatives, and City staff.
Independently manage assigned engineering projects, including scope, schedule, budget, and compliance.
Serve as project engineer for assigned capital improvement and development projects.
Review and approve engineering plans, specifications, and calculations prepared by consultants and staff.
Prepare cost estimates, specifications, and final reports.
Perform complex civil engineering studies, calculations, analysis, and design.
Provide technical direction and guidance to lower-level engineering staff as needed.
Build and maintain effective working relationships with staff, public agency representatives, and the public.
Assist the general public with engineering-related inquiries.
Promote a work environment that values diversity, equity, integrity, trust, and respect.
Demonstrate teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication.
Perform related duties as assigned.
CIVIL ENGINEER
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Assign, schedule, monitor, and evaluate the work of assigned staff.
Assist in the development and implementation of goals, objectives, policies, engineering standards, and priorities.
Manage and deliver a variety of engineering projects and programs, including streets, drainage, traffic, grading, land development, sewer, stormwater, and water systems.
Coordinate and direct the work of consultants, contractors, public agencies, and utility providers.
Manage and deliver multiple, complex projects and programs, including oversight of cross-functional coordination and project prioritization.
Prepare and administer capital improvement plans and budgets within assigned areas.
Develop project schedules, methods, and procedures to ensure timely and efficient completion of work.
Respond to public works inquiries and coordinate appropriate responses.
Conduct field inspections and consult with property owners, contractors, inspectors, utility representatives, and City staff.
Review proposed private development projects and establish conditions of approval.
Oversee and prioritize multiple projects and assignments across functional areas.
Issue and manage public works permits for contractors and utility companies.
Review and approve engineering plans and documents prepared by private engineers.
Prepare plans, specifications, cost estimates, and bid documents for capital improvement projects.
Verify engineering calculations, materials, and plans for accuracy and regulatory compliance.
Facilitate public participation and communication related to public works projects.
Participate in the selection and oversight of consultants for studies, plans, and reports.
Serve as a technical resource to the public, contractors, and City departments.
Demonstrate teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication.
Perform related duties as assigned.
SENIOR CIVIL ENGINEER
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
Manage and deliver complex engineering projects and programs, including streets, drainage, traffic, grading, land development, sewer, stormwater, and water systems.
Plan, organize, assign, supervise, and review the work of assigned staff.
Oversee capital improvement projects (CIP) planning, design, budgeting, and delivery.
Review and approve engineering plans, specifications, studies, and reports for public and private development projects.
Serve as project manager for complex or high-profile projects; resolve technical, budgetary, and scheduling issues.
Coordinate and direct the work of consultants, contractors, public agencies, and utility providers.
Negotiate and administer contracts; ensure compliance with City standards, timelines, and budgets.
Develop and implement program goals, objectives, policies, and procedures.
Participate in developing and administering departmental and capital improvement budgets.
Conduct and oversee engineering studies, analyses and investigations; prepare and review technical reports.
Review development proposals and establish engineering conditions of approval.
Oversee permitting processes and ensure regulatory compliance.
Coordinate land acquisition activities, including review of maps, easements, and exhibits.
Represent the City in meetings with developers, consultants, regulatory agencies, and the public.
Prepare and present staff reports to the City Council, commissions, and other boards.
Monitor project progress and ensure completion within scope, schedule, and budget.
Promote a work environment that values diversity, equity, integrity, trust, and respect.
Demonstrate leadership, teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication.
Perform related duties as assigned.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
ASSOCIATE ENGINEER
Knowledge of:
Principles and practices of civil engineering.
Pertinent Federal, State, and local laws, codes, and regulations.
Principles and practices of capital improvement planning, budget management, cost estimation, and contract administration.
Practices and techniques of preparing and presenting effective staff reports.
Engineering-related computer applications, including CAD and related software.
Construction methods and materials.
California Subdivision Map Act.
Ability to:
Assist in managing contracts, projects, and related activities.
Perform engineering studies and analysis under direction.
Assist in the coordination of work of assigned staff, contractors, and consultants.
Prepare specifications and write technical reports.
Use and maintain proficiency with contemporary office technologies, including computers, digital tools, and relevant software applications.
Utilize appropriate safety procedures and practices for assigned duties.
Communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, acro