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Caltrans Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Department of Transportation

Duty Senior

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$11K - $14K/mo

SENIOR TRANSPORTATION ENGINEER, CALTRANS $11,437.00 - $14,315.00 New to State candidates will be hired into the minimum salary of the classification or minimum of alternate range when applicable ...

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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 Jun 19, 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 due to the agency's rigorous hiring process, which includes exams, interviews, and background checks. Candidates often need relevant education, technical skills, and sometimes civil service exam scores to improve their chances.

How much does a Caltrans Engineer make?

A Caltrans Engineer's salary varies based on experience, education, and location, but typically ranges from $70,000 to over $100,000 annually. Entry-level engineers may start at lower salaries, while experienced engineers or those with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by benefits and overtime opportunities.

What jobs pay $6,000 a month?

In California, engineering roles such as civil, mechanical, or electrical engineers at the Caltrans level can earn around $6,000 or more per month, especially with experience, certifications, and project management responsibilities. Senior or specialized positions in transportation engineering often exceed this salary range, reflecting the technical skills and qualifications required in the field.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

In Caltrans engineering, high-level roles such as senior civil engineers, project managers, or executive positions like district engineers can reach or exceed $500,000 annually with bonuses and benefits. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities within large infrastructure projects. Compensation varies based on experience, location, and organizational structure.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,743 per year, or $56.1 per hour.
Senior Construction Engineer

Senior Construction Engineer

UNICO Engineering

Chico, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 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 Senior Construction Engineer with 4+ years experience to support our Resident Engineers in project delivery. Experience with locally, state and federally-funded transportation projects in Northern and Central California. Must understand Caltrans and local agency standards, as well as the Caltrans Process. Type of infrastructure projects include roadways, bridges / structures, curb, gutter, sidewalk, underground utilities, earthwork, etc. Strong verbal and written communication skills are required. Specific responsibilities include: attending client and contractor meetings, reviewing plans and specifications and ensuring compliance with documents, providing project documentation in the form of letters, RFI/Submittal response, change orders, manage and forecast budget, maintain as-built drawings, prepare final project closeout documents, etc. Must have experience working in a team environment, This position will report to a Resident Engineer. Salary is dependent upon experience. Tremendous opportunity for growth.

Responsibilites:

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:

Registered as a California Professional Engineer AND
BS in Construction Management, Civil, or Structural Engineering plus four (4) years of relevant Construction Engineering experience, OR
Ten (10) 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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