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Caltrans Project Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Psomas

Construction Inspector (Caltrans)

Roseville, CA · On-site

$61.39/hr

As a Project Manager, you won't just lead projects-you'll be an owner contributing to the firm ... Prior experience working on Caltrans projects and/or transportation projects for local ...

Kimley-Horn

Project Manager - Roadway

Orange, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

Kimley-Horn

Project Manager - Roadway

Riverside, CA

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

Kimley-Horn

Project Manager - Roadway

Riverside, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

Kimley-Horn

Project Manager - Roadway

Riverside, CA

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

Kimley-Horn

Project Manager - Roadway

Orange, CA

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

Kimley-Horn

Project Manager - Roadway

Riverside, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

This role will focus on both highway projects adhering to Caltrans standards and municipal roadway ... The ideal candidate will demonstrate technical expertise, project management skills, and the ...

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All JobsCaltrans Project Manager Jobs

Caltrans Project Manager information

Is it hard to get hired by Caltrans?

Getting hired as a Caltrans Project Manager can be competitive due to the specialized skills and experience required, such as knowledge of transportation projects, project management, and relevant certifications. Candidates often need a strong background in civil engineering, construction management, or related fields, along with experience in public agency environments. The hiring process typically involves multiple steps, including exams, interviews, and background checks.

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

To thrive as a Caltrans Project Manager, you need expertise in civil engineering, project management, and state transportation regulations, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field and relevant certifications. Familiarity with project management software (such as Microsoft Project), Caltrans standards, and budgeting tools is crucial. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help manage diverse teams and stakeholders effectively. These competencies ensure that infrastructure projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and according to regulatory requirements.

What does a Caltrans Project Manager do?

A Caltrans Project Manager oversees transportation projects for the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), coordinating all aspects from planning through construction. They manage project budgets, timelines, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Project Managers work with engineers, contractors, government agencies, and the public to deliver road, bridge, and infrastructure improvements safely and efficiently. Their role is crucial in maintaining and upgrading California’s transportation system.

What jobs pay $6,000 a month?

A Caltrans Project Manager can earn around $6,000 or more per month, depending on experience, location, and project scope. Typically, these roles require a bachelor's degree in engineering or related fields, project management skills, and relevant certifications such as PMP. Salaries vary based on complexity of projects and years of experience, with senior managers earning higher compensation.

What is the highest paying project manager?

The highest paying project managers are often those in industries like engineering, IT, or construction with extensive experience and certifications such as PMP. Senior project managers overseeing large, complex projects or working in high-demand sectors tend to earn the highest salaries, which can exceed six figures annually.

What are some common challenges faced by a Caltrans Project Manager when coordinating with multiple stakeholders?

As a Caltrans Project Manager, one of the primary challenges is managing the expectations and input of various stakeholders, including local governments, contractors, environmental agencies, and the public. Balancing project timelines and budgets while ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining clear communication can be complex. Successful project managers often develop strong negotiation and conflict-resolution skills to address concerns, keep projects on track, and foster collaborative relationships throughout the project lifecycle.

How much do Caltrans managers make?

Caltrans project managers typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and level of responsibility. Salaries can vary based on certifications, such as PMP, and the complexity of projects managed.

What is the difference between Caltrans Project Manager vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCaltrans Project ManagerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field, PMP certification often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentOversees transportation projects for Caltrans, manages teams and budgetsDesigns, analyzes, and supervises civil infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageState transportation department, public sectorEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

While both roles require engineering knowledge and project oversight, Caltrans Project Managers focus on managing transportation projects within Caltrans, including planning, budgeting, and coordination. Civil Engineers often handle the technical design and analysis of infrastructure projects. The Project Manager role emphasizes leadership and project delivery, whereas Civil Engineers focus on technical engineering solutions.

More about Caltrans Project Manager jobs
What cities are hiring for Caltrans Project Manager jobs? Cities with the most Caltrans Project Manager job openings:
What states have the most Caltrans Project Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Caltrans Project Manager jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Caltrans Project Manager jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Caltrans Project Manager jobs are:
Caltrans Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Caltrans Project Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Heavy Civil Construction Engineer

The Misch Group

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$200K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Heavy Civil Construction Engineer
Department: Construction, Engineering, & Skilled Trades
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: California
Compensation: $200,000 - $225,000 / year
Description
Job Description
Title Heavy Civil Construction Engineer
Location Anaheim / Orange County, California
Compensation $200,000 target base, with flexibility up to $225,000 for the right candidate
About the Opportunity Our client is a family-owned heavy civil contractor in Southern California with a long-tenured team and a strong reputation in public infrastructure. The company delivers complex public works projects built to Caltrans specifications and is known for stability, low turnover, and a practical field-oriented culture.
Typical project types include:
  • Bridge construction
  • Freeway widening
  • Retaining walls
  • Pump stations
  • Large structural concrete infrastructure
  • Seismic-resistant public works projects

Position Summary This role is ideal for a contractor-side heavy civil professional who understands how to execute Caltrans-driven public works projects from both a field and financial perspective. The right person will bring strong experience in project execution, budgeting, crew leadership, and day-to-day coordination on large infrastructure work.
Key Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead or support execution of heavy civil and public works projects built to Caltrans standards
  • Manage project budgets, cost tracking, forecasting, and overall financial performance
  • Oversee field operations and help drive safe, efficient project delivery
  • Coordinate crews, subcontractors, schedules, and project resources
  • Support project planning, documentation, change management, and client coordination
  • Help ensure compliance with contract documents, specifications, quality standards, and public agency requirements

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Required Background
  • 10+ years of construction experience
  • Experience working for a contractor, not a design or consulting organization
  • Strong background in heavy civil or public works construction
  • Caltrans specification experience
  • Budget ownership or meaningful project financial responsibility
  • Crew management and field operations exposure
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship
  • Clean driving record preferred due to company vehicle eligibility

Preferred Project Experience
  • Bridges
  • Freeway widening or highway work
  • Retaining walls
  • Pump stations
  • Large concrete structures
  • Seismic or transportation infrastructure

Preferred Titles / Profile Strong candidates may come from backgrounds such as:
  • Project Engineer
  • Senior Project Engineer
  • Project Manager
  • Contractor-side Resident Engineer

Candidates from major or well-regarded infrastructure contractors are especially relevant, particularly those with direct Caltrans project execution experience.
Benefits
Benefits
  • 100% employer-paid health insurance for the employee
  • 50% family health coverage
  • 401(k)
  • Profit-sharing plan
  • Company vehicle

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