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City Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Escondido

City Engineer

Escondido, CA

$159K - $237K/yr

Summary The City of Escondido has an exciting career opportunity for the position of City Engineer. Please review the recruitment brochure by clicking here and follow the instructions to apply.

City of Eureka

Deputy City Engineer

Eureka, CA · On-site

$103K - $125K/yr

This class is distinguished from City Engineer in that the latter has overall responsibility for all engineering, capital improvement and development functions, implementing and interpreting public ...

City of Rocklin, CA

City Engineer

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$133K - $181K/yr

The City of Rocklin is seeking an experienced and collaborative City Engineer to help shape the community's future through innovative infrastructure planning, development review, and capital ...

City of Escondido, CA

City Engineer

Escondido, CA · On-site

$159K - $237K/yr

City of Escondido, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 03793 Department: Development Services Division: Engineering Services Opening Date: 07/23/2026 Closing Date: 9/7/2026 5:00 PM Pacific Summary The ...

City of Eureka, CA

Deputy City Engineer

Eureka, CA · On-site

$103K - $125K/yr

City Hall - 531 K Street, Eureka, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 25/26.27 Department: Engineering Opening Date: 04/06/2026 Closing Date: Continuous Description Summary Additional benefit of a ...

City of Rocklin (CA)

City Engineer

Rocklin, CA · On-site

$133K - $181K/yr

The City of Rocklin is seeking an experienced and collaborative City Engineer to help shape the community's future through innovative infrastructure planning, development review, and capital ...

City of Palmdale

City Traffic Engineer

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$153K - $195K/yr

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED The Traffic Engineer receives direct administrative direction from the City Engineer under general administrative oversight from the Director of Public Works. The ...

City of Palmdale, CA

City Traffic Engineer

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$153K - $195K/yr

Advise the City Engineer and Director of Public Works on transportation and traffic engineering matters. * Represent the Department and the City as needed. * Perform related duties as assigned.

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All JobsCity Engineer JobsCity Engineer Jobs in California

City Engineer information

See California salary details

$23.7K

$106.5K

$169.7K

How much do city engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for city engineer in California is $106,543.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $131,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a city engineer?

A City Engineer is a professional responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of public infrastructure within a city, such as roads, bridges, water systems, and public buildings. They ensure that city projects comply with safety and environmental regulations, manage budgets, and coordinate with other governmental departments and contractors. City Engineers play a crucial role in urban development and the quality of public services, helping to create safe and efficient communities.

What does a city engineer do?

A city engineer works for a city government. They plan community land use, study environmental impact, design infrastructure, make zoning recommendations, research usage recommendations, and oversee project execution. Additional job duties involve exploring project viability, coordinating contractors, presenting progress reports, and managing the project budget. Though much of this job takes place in an office, a city engineer is required to enter the field on a regular basis. Qualifications for this career include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil engineering.

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

To thrive as a City Engineer, you need a strong background in civil engineering, urban infrastructure design, and project management, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with CAD software, GIS systems, and construction management platforms is commonly required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help City Engineers coordinate with public agencies, contractors, and community stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable urban development that meets regulatory standards and public needs.

What are some common challenges city engineers face when managing urban infrastructure projects?

City Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing budget constraints with the need for high-quality infrastructure, coordinating with multiple government departments, and addressing public concerns during project planning and execution. Additionally, they must navigate regulatory requirements and unforeseen issues like weather delays or utility conflicts. Effective communication and strong project management skills are essential to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.

What is the difference between City Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCity EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentMunicipal government, urban planning projectsConstruction sites, consulting firms, infrastructure projects
Employer & Industry UsageCity governments, public sectorPrivate firms, engineering consulting, construction companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a City Engineer and a Civil Engineer lies in their work scope and environment. A City Engineer typically works within municipal government focusing on urban infrastructure and public projects, often requiring a PE license. Civil Engineers have a broader role in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure across various sectors, including private firms and consulting. While both roles require similar credentials, their work settings and responsibilities differ significantly.

How much do city engineers make?

City engineers in Texas typically earn an average annual salary of around $85,000 to $105,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary based on the size of the city, level of responsibility, and additional certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer).
More about City Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of City Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of City Engineer jobs in California are:

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For City Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching City Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for City Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for City Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most City Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to City Engineer jobs in CA?

For City Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

City Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various City Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $106,543 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

City Engineer

Escondido, CA

City of Escondido
Public Administration • 501 - 1,000 employees

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 849 rated public administrative organizations

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about City of Escondidoexternal

$159K - $237K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Summary The City of Escondido has an exciting career opportunity for the position of City Engineer. Please review the recruitment brochure by clicking here and follow the instructions to apply.

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