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Caltrans Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Experience with the CA Division of State Architect (DSA) and Caltrans projects is preferred ... As an engineering project manager, you will work with a variety of personalities on a ...

Experience with the CA Division of State Architect (DSA) and Caltrans projects is preferred ... As an engineering project manager, you will work with a variety of personalities on a ...

TMC Technician

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$4.6K - $7.0K/mo

The Caltrans Career Compass is a tool to assist and help candidates understand and succeed in ... TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN Additional Documents * Job Application Package Checklist

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Caltrans Engineering information

See California salary details

$52.8K

$115.2K

$182.6K

How much do caltrans engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for caltrans engineering in California is $115,214.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $124,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Caltrans engineer?

Caltrans Engineering jobs refer to a variety of engineering positions within the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). These roles involve planning, designing, constructing, and maintaining California’s transportation infrastructure, such as highways, bridges, and public transit systems. Caltrans engineers work in specialties such as civil, structural, transportation, and environmental engineering, playing a crucial role in improving public safety and mobility across the state. These positions typically require a relevant engineering degree and, for some roles, a Professional Engineer (PE) license.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a Caltrans engineer?

To thrive as a Caltrans Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field, an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, and knowledge of transportation engineering principles. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, MicroStation, and project management systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure effective planning, design, and implementation of transportation projects that meet safety, regulatory, and community standards.

What are common challenges faced by Caltrans engineers during large-scale infrastructure projects?

Caltrans engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adapting to changing regulatory requirements, and addressing unexpected site conditions. Balancing the needs of public safety, environmental impact, and project deadlines requires strong problem-solving skills and effective communication. Additionally, managing tight budgets while ensuring quality standards are met is a frequent concern. Collaborating with contractors, government agencies, and local communities is essential to overcome these challenges and achieve successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Caltrans Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectCaltrans EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsEngineering degree, Caltrans-specific certificationsEngineering degree, PE license often preferred
Work EnvironmentState agency projects, transportation infrastructureVarious sectors including construction, consulting, government
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily state transportation departmentPublic and private sectors, broad industry applications

Caltrans Engineering focuses on transportation infrastructure projects within the state transportation department, requiring specific certifications and working mainly in government settings. Civil Engineering is a broader field applicable across multiple industries, often requiring a PE license, and includes diverse project types beyond transportation.

What do you need to be a Caltrans engineering?

To become a Caltrans engineer, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in civil, mechanical, electrical, or related engineering fields. Professional engineering licensure is often required or preferred, along with relevant work experience and knowledge of transportation systems, design software, and safety standards.

What are popular job titles related to Caltrans Engineering jobs in California?

For Caltrans Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Caltrans Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Caltrans Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Caltrans Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Caltrans Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Caltrans Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,214 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

Engineering Manager- Geotechnical/ CQA

NV5

Ventura, CA • On-site

$155K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 450 rated engineering


Job description

Overview

NV5 is a provider of engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients, delivering solutions through six business verticals: Testing, Inspection & Consulting; Infrastructure; Utility Services; Environmental Health Sciences; Buildings & Program Management; and Geospatial Technology. With offices nationwide and abroad, NV5 helps clients plan, design, build, test, certify, and operate projects that improve the communities where we live and work.

As engineers, architects, construction/program managers, environmental professionals, and beyond, we help shape our communities through the services we provide. We are looking for passionate, driven individuals to join our team focused on Delivering Solutions and Improving Lives.

NV5 has an immediate opening for a Senior-Level Geotechnical/Civil/Materials Engineer in our Ventura, CA office. The successful candidate will serve as Engineering Manager for both design and construction inspection and testing projects. Candidate will also serve as Project Manager in the delivery of construction materials testing and inspection services focused primarily on school and public infrastructure construction.

The successful candidate should be a registered Professional Civil Engineer in the State of California. Experience with the CA Division of State Architect (DSA) and Caltrans projects is preferred. Success in this position requires focus on both technical excellence and business success.  As an engineering project manager, you will work with a variety of personalities on a multidisciplined team. The person must possess skills in problem solving, critical thinking, and maintain high productivity in a fast-paced environment. The person needs to be an effective leader and collaborator with an ability to manage multiple soil/concrete technicians, ICC Inspectors, and laboratory staff.

Responsibilities
  • Engineering Manager of laboratory testing and special inspection services on DSA/HCAI, Caltrans and local jurisdiction having authority (JHA) projects.
  • Plans, assigns, prioritizes, evaluates, and reviews the work of special inspectors and technicians, and support staff for consistency, accuracy, timeliness, conformance to guidelines and technical merit.
  • Review field and laboratory reports
  • Review plans and specifications
  • Project Management: Manage projects from inception through completion and have primary responsibility for managing client expectations and ensuring that delivery meets expectations.
  • Manage projects to meet client expectations for technical excellence, budget, and schedule
  • With support from the Operations Manager, plan for and execute the recruitment, selection, training, mentoring, and development of all employees in the department.
  • Conduct annual performance reviews. Monitor and assess progress toward performance goals
  • Develops and reviews technical and cost proposals, technical deliverables and other documents.
  • With support from the Operations Manager, perform business and client development activities.
  • Assists in establishing policies and technical procedures and assists in developing new markets in professional services.
  • Develop an understanding and be aware of project-related risk.  Be familiar with what could go wrong on a project and how to protect the Company. Be familiar with company risk policies.
  • Lead safety efforts for the team and ensure the team follows safety rules and guidelines. Responsible for creating and modeling a safe
Qualifications
  • BS in Civil Engineering
  • Registered PE in California
  • Minimum of 5 years' experience in testing and inspection of construction materials
  • Minimum of 2 years' experience in special inspections or supervision of special inspection services.  Experience with DSA/HCAI and Caltrans special inspection and materials testing requirements is preferred.Ability to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team, think creatively, and problem solve
  • Demonstrated experience with reviewing technical specifications and field/laboratory reports
  • Extensive knowledge of building codes and construction industry standards. DSA, HCAI experience is preferred
  • Experience with Caltrans, AASHTO, and ASTM test methods pertaining to construction materials, including HMA, aggregate, soils, steel, masonry, and concrete
  • Experience reviewing concrete/asphalt mix designs
  • Experience overseeing materials testing and inspections
  • Thorough understanding of accreditation policies for all relevant agencies, including Caltrans, DSA, AMRL, CCRL, IAS, etc.
  • Proficiency in computer applications, including MS Office
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Preferred qualifications include a strong background and experience in geotechnical engineering

The pay range for this California position is $155,000- $200,000 per year; however, base pay offered may be higher or lower depending on the job-related knowledge, skills, and experience 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, depending on the position offered. This information is provided per California Senate Bill 1162. 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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Employment Type: OTHER

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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