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Caltrans Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UNICO Engineering

Construction Engineer

Folsom, CA

$83K - $135K/yr

UNICO Engineering provides high-quality Construction Management, Land Surveying, and Systems ... Must understand the Caltrans Process, and Caltrans and local agency standards. Type of ...

Department of Transportation

Route Engineer

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$6.4K - $12K/mo

The Caltrans Career Compass is a tool to assist and help candidates understand and succeed in ... Appointment to Range D requires a valid Professional Engineering License (Civil) issued by the ...

UNICO Engineering

Senior Construction Engineer

Chico, CA · On-site

$124K - $166K/yr

UNICO Engineering provides high-quality Construction Management, Land Surveying, and Systems ... Must understand Caltrans and local agency standards, as well as the Caltrans Process. Type of ...

UNICO Engineering

Senior Construction Engineer

Folsom, CA · On-site

$124K - $166K/yr

UNICO Engineering provides high-quality Construction Management, Land Surveying, and Systems ... Must understand Caltrans and local agency standards, as well as the Caltrans Process. Type of ...

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All JobsCaltrans Engineering Jobs

Caltrans Engineering information

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$53.5K

$116.7K

$185K

How much do caltrans engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for caltrans engineering in the United States is $116,743.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Is it hard to get hired by Caltrans?

Getting hired as a Caltrans engineer can be competitive, requiring a relevant degree in engineering or a related field, along with passing civil service exams and meeting experience requirements. The hiring process often involves multiple steps, including interviews and background checks, and candidates should demonstrate technical skills and knowledge of transportation systems. Persistence and proper preparation can improve chances of securing a position.

How much does a Caltrans engineer make?

A Caltrans engineer's salary varies based on experience, education, and position, but typically ranges from around $70,000 to over $120,000 annually. Entry-level engineers may start at lower salaries, while experienced engineers or those in supervisory roles can earn higher wages, often supplemented by benefits and overtime opportunities.

What are Caltrans Engineering jobs?

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 are some 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.

Is Caltrans a good company for engineers?

Caltrans offers engineering positions focused on transportation infrastructure, with competitive salaries, benefits, and opportunities for career advancement. Engineers working there often engage in projects requiring technical skills, certifications, and adherence to safety standards. The organization provides a stable work environment with a focus on public service and infrastructure development.

Does Caltrans hire civil engineers?

Yes, Caltrans hires civil engineers for roles involving transportation infrastructure design, construction, and maintenance. Candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and may require engineering licensure or certification. Civil engineers at Caltrans work on projects such as highways, bridges, and transportation systems, often using tools like AutoCAD and GIS.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Caltrans Engineer, and why are they important?

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.
More about Caltrans Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Caltrans Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Caltrans Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Caltrans Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Caltrans Engineering jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Caltrans Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Caltrans Engineering jobs are:
Caltrans Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Caltrans Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 29% Internship, 11% As Needed, 10% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 48% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 92% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,743 per year, or $56.1 per hour.
Construction Engineer

Construction Engineer

UNICO Engineering

Folsom, CA

$83K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Overview:

UNICO Engineering provides high-quality Construction Management, Land Surveying, and Systems Integration services to public and private clients. With a spirit of cooperation and partnership, UNICO focuses on responsiveness, delivering value, and meeting and exceeding our clients' expectations.

UNICO is a fast-growing consulting firm with significant opportunities for upward mobility. UNICO supports professional development and continuing education. Fun, flexible work environment and competitive compensation and benefits.

UNICO is seeking a Construction Engineer 2 to 5 years experience, EIT required, PE preferred, to support our Resident Engineers in project delivery. Experience with locally, state and federally funded transportation projects for projects in Northern and Central California. Must understand the Caltrans Process, and Caltrans and local agency standards. Type of infrastructure projects include roadways, bridges / structures, curb, gutter, sidewalk, underground utilities, earthwork, etc. Strong verbal and written communication skills are required. Must have experience working in a team environment, This position will report to a Resident Engineer. Salary depends on experience, and EIT or PE license status.

Responsibilities:

Facilitate and attend meetings with the Contractor, client agencies, and the public (as necessary) Establish and maintain project records
Review and respond to RFIs and letters
Review and process submittals
Document and authorize payments for the project
Review the Contractor's work for compliance
Review extra work and perform independent cost analysis and time impact analysis
Participate in and/or conducting pre, mid, and post-construction reviews
Manage and forecast project budgets
Review and draft responses to NOPCs and claims
Maintain as-built drawings
Prepare final project closeout documents

Qualifications:

Certified as an Engineer-in-Training, AND
BS in Construction Management, Civil, or Structural Engineering plus two (2) years of relevant construction experience, OR
Eight (8) years of relevant Construction Engineering experience

Competitive Salary and generous benefits including health, vision, dental, life, disability, 401(k), PTO and paid holidays. Energizing, fast paced, nimble and expanding company with plenty of career growth opportunity.

Benefits:

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Health insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Vision insurance
  • Vacation and Sick Leave
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Life insurance
  • Long-term disability insurance

As an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, UNICO Engineering considers applicants for all positions without regard to race (including natural hairstyles), color, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), national origin, age (40 and over), medical condition, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex (including sexual harassment, sex stereotypes, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, ancestry, genetic information/characteristics, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender, military or veteran status, reproductive health decision-making, or any other characteristic or activity protected by law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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