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Caltrans Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Caltrans Engineering information

See salary details

$53.5K

$116.7K

$185K

How much do caltrans engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 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:
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.
Transportation Engineer (Civil)

Transportation Engineer (Civil)

Department of Transportation

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$6.4K - $12K/mo

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 675 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The Division of Engineering Services (DES), Structures and Engineering Services (SES), Office of Earthquake Engineering, Analysis, and Research (OEEAR, is recruiting to fill a Transportation Engineer (Civil), position located in Sacramento.
Under the direction of a Senior Bridge Engineer, the incumbent performs a wide variety of professional complex engineering work of above average difficulty for the Office of Earthquake Engineering, Analysis, and Research (OEEAR) in the Division of Engineering Services (DES). The incumbent assists in the development, maintenance, and support of bridge engineering software and seismic design guidance for the OEEAR, and is responsible for the seismic analysis and design of bridges and other transportation-related structures. As a statewide organization, DES adjusts to periods of fluctuating workload to successfully deliver projects. DES employees may be given temporary assignments on DES projects throughout the State as workload demands. This will entail travel and/or temporary relocation.
You will find additional information about the job in the Duty Statement .
Working Conditions
Position located at: 1801 30th St Sacramento, Sacramento county CA
The Caltrans Transportation Engineer (Civil) Rotation Program is a mandatory 24 month to 33 months rotation assignment for all permanent, full-time Transportation Engineer (Civil) employees that have completed their probationary period hired by Caltrans Districts after June 22, 2018, or an earlier date as determined by the Districts. The purpose of Rotation Program is to provide opportunities for employees and Caltrans to benefit by participating in a standardized process that systematically engages newly hired engineers. Participants will develop well-rounded project delivery knowledge, skills, and abilities by rotating through diverse project delivery functional units. The Rotation Program includes mandatory core assignments in Design and Construction units, as well as a mandatory elective assignment. Each rotation assignment is typically between 6 to 12 months and will be based on workload needs and the employee's goals. Assignments may involve long term travel and can be located throughout the state.
In addition to the Caltrans Transportation Engineer (Civil) Rotation Program, an incumbent may be required to go on loan to another project delivery function when there are temporary or peak staffing needs in those areas
Minimum Requirements You will find the Minimum Requirements in the Class Specification.
  • TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER (CIVIL)
Additional Documents
  • Job Application Package Checklist
  • Duty Statement

Position Details Job Code #:
JC-523611
Position #(s):
559-220-3135-063
Working Title:
Transportation Engineer (Civil)
Classification:
TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER (CIVIL) $6,488.00 - $7,735.00 A
$7,428.00 - $9,296.00 B
$8,896.00 - $11,131.00 C
$9,712.00 - $12,152.00 D
New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable.
# of Positions:
Multiple
Work Location:
Sacramento County
Telework:
Hybrid
Job Type:
Permanent, Full Time
Department Information
Caltrans Mission: Improving lives and communities through transportation.
Caltrans Vision: A thriving and connected California.
The Caltrans workforce is made up of diverse and unique individuals who contribute to our organizational success.
Department Website: www.dot.ca.gov
Director's EEO Policy : https://dot.ca.gov/programs/equal-employment-opportunity
Director's EEO Policy Statement: https://dot.ca.gov/programs/equal-employment-opportunity
This position may be eligible for telework. The amount of telework is at the discretion of the Department and based on Caltrans's evolving telework policy. Caltrans supports telework, recognizing that in-person attendance may be required based on operational needs. Employees are expected to be able to report to their worksites with minimum notification if an urgent need arises. The selected candidate will be required to commute to the headquartered location as needed to meet operational needs. Business travel may be required, and reimbursement considers an employee's designated headquartered location, primary residence, and may be subject to CalHR regulations or applicable bargaining unit contract provisions. All commute expenses to the headquartered location will be the responsibility of the selected candidate.
Special Requirements
Candidates are required to review the Minimum Qualifications (MQs) for this classification. If you meet MQs under Pattern II and require the TE Civil in-person written hurdle exam, DO NOT TAKE the TE Civil online exam prior to passing the written hurdle. Candidates who take the TE Civil online exam prior to passing the written hurdle may negatively impact their hiring eligibility. Please contact the exam unit at askexams@dot.ca.gov for additional information prior to taking the online examination.
For clarification on the education requirement of the minimum qualifications, please reach out to the Human Resources Contact prior to taking the online Training and Experience Evaluation. For a list of ABET accredited schools, please refer to this link: Find Programs | ABET .
Appointment to Range D requires a valid Professional Engineering License (Civil) issued by the California Board of Registration for Professional Engineers." For all other ranges, a PE license is not required.
Possession of Minimum Qualifications will be verified prior to interview and/or appointment. If you are basing your eligibility on education, you must include your unofficial transcript(s)/diploma for verification. Unofficial, original, or official sealed transcripts will be accepted and may be required upon appointment. Applicants with foreign transcripts/degrees must provide a transcript/degree U.S. equivalency report evaluation that indicates the number of units and degree to which the foreign coursework is equivalent. Please visit either of the following two websites for a list of evaluation agencies: https://www.naces.org/members or https://aice-eval.org . Please redact birthdates and social security numbers.
Application Instructions
Completed applications and all required documents must be received or postmarked by the Final Filing Date in order to be considered. Dates printed on Mobile Bar Codes, such as the Quick Response (QR) Codes available at the USPS, are not considered Postmark dates for the purpose of determining timely filing of an application.
Final Filing Date: 7/13/2026
Who May Apply
Individuals who are currently in the classification, eligible for lateral transfer, eligible for reinstatement, have list or LEAP eligibility, are in the process of obtaining list eligibility, or have SROA and/or Surplus eligibility (please attach your letter, if available). SROA and Surplus candidates are given priority; therefore, individuals with other eligibility may be considered in the event no SROA or Surplus candidates apply. Individuals who are eligible for a Training and Development assignment may also be considered for this position(s). Applications will be screened and only the most qualified applicants will be selected to move forward in the selection process. Applicants must meet the Minimum Qualifications stated in the Classification Specification(s).
How To Apply
Complete Application Packages (including your Examination/Employment Application (STD 678) and applicable or required documents) must be submitted to apply for this Job Posting. Application Packages may be submitted electronically through your CalCareer Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. When submitting your application in hard copy, a completed copy of the Application Package listing must be included. If you choose to not apply electronically, a hard copy application package may be submitted through an alternative method listed below:
Address for Mailing Application Packages
You may submit your application and any applicable or required documents to:
Department of Transportation
N/A
Attn: Caltrans DHR Contact
Certification Services MS-90
P O Box 168036
Sacramento , CA 95816-8036
Address for Drop-Off Application Packages
You may drop off your application and any applicable or required documents at:
Department of Transportation
Drop-Off Address
Caltrans DHR Contact
Classification and Hiring Unit - ECOS
1727 30th Street, MS 90
Sacramento , CA 95816
Closed on weekends and State holidays.
08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Required Application Package Documents
The following items are required to be submitted with your application. Applicants who do not submit the required items timely may not be considered for this job:
  • Current version of the State Examination/Employment Application STD Form 678 (when not applying electronically), or the Electronic State Employment Application through your Applicant Account at www.CalCareers.ca.gov. All Experience and Education relating to the Minimum Qualifications listed on the Classification Specification should be included to demonstrate how you meet the Minimum Qualifications for the position.
  • Resume is optional. It may be included, but is not required.
  • Statement of Qualifications -
    The Statement of Qualifications (SOQ) serves as documentation of each applicant's ability to present information clearly and concisely in writing. Please follow the instructions below; failure to include and complete the SOQ as instructed may result in the SOQ not being considered and in disqualification from the interview. Resumes and cover letters will not take the place of the SOQ. The SOQ must be typed, no more than two pages in length, and 12-point Arial font.
    Please describe your qualifications with the following:
    (1) Demonstrated knowledge of bridge seismic performance principles, and ability to develop and apply seismic design policy, guidance, and standards that function within new bridge design and bridge retrofit projects.
    (2) Demonstrated knowledge and experience developing, using, and supporting Caltrans and AASHTO LRFD bridge design software.
    (3) Demonstrated ability to work as a collaborative and productive member of technical engineering teams in the delivery of bridge or related structure design, construction, or maintenance and operation projects.
Applicants requiring reasonable accommodations for the hiring interview process must request the necessary accommodations if scheduled for a hiring interview. The request should be made at the time of contact to schedule the interview. Questions regarding reasonable accommodations may be directed to the EEO contact listed on this job posting.
Benefits Benefit information can be found on the CalHR website and the CalPERS website.
Please take this 1-minute Caltrans Recruitment survey to tell us how you found out about this job.
https://forms.office.com/g/RyK102ty4G
https://youtu.be/oC9wIp8QalI
Apply today to join our team! We especially encourage applicants to check out our Caltrans Career Compass tool! The Caltrans Career Compass is a tool to assist and help candidates understand and succeed in applying to Caltrans positions.
Contact Information
The Human Resources Contact is available to answer questions regarding the application process. The Hiring Unit Contact is available to answer questions regarding the position.
Human Resources Contact:
Bailey Benson
(916) 639-6192
bailey.benson@dot.ca.gov
Hiring Unit Contact:
Meuy Saephan
(916) 227-0250
meuy.saephan@dot.ca.gov
Please direct requests for Reasonable Accommodations to the interview scheduler at the time the interview is being scheduled. You may direct any additional questions regarding Reasonable Accommodations or Equal Employment Opportunity for this position(s) to the Department's EEO Office.
EEO Contact:
Caltrans EEO Office
(844) 368-3367
Ask.eeo@dot.ca.gov
California Relay Service: 1-800-735-2929 (TTY), 1-800-735-2922 (Voice) TTY is a Telecommunications Device for the Deaf, and is reachable only from phones equipped with a TTY Device.
Important Application Instructions:
The State application (STD. 678) is required, and each section must be filled out completely and thoroughly. For mailed or hand delivered applications to be considered for this position, the Job Control number (JC-523611), PARF# 59-26-0219 and title of the position (Insert Classification Title) must be included on the STD. 678 form.
Electronic applications through your CalCareers account are highly recommended and encouraged.
Candidates that meet the minimum qualifications based on possession of EDUCATION, LICENSE, OR CERTIFICATE must include a copy of your DEGREE/TRANSCRIPTS, LICENSE, or CERTIFICATE, along with your State application (STD. 678), to be considered for this position.
NOTE: Do not submit the "Equal Employment Opportunity" questionnaire (page 5) with your completed State application (STD. 678). This page is for examination use only. Do not include any confidential information on any documents you submit for this job vacancy, such as your state application, resume, or educational transcripts. Confidential information that should be excluded or removed from these documents includes, but is not limited to, your Social Security Number, birth date, driver's license number, examination results, LEAP status, marital status, and age. The job application packet checklist is not required to apply for this position. Failure to follow these instructions may result in your application not being considered for this position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
The State of California is an equal opportunity employer to all, regardless of age, ancestry, color, disability (mental and physical), exercising the right to family care and medical leave, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military or veteran status, national origin, political affiliation, race, religious creed, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and related

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