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City Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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.

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 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 ...

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 Engineer

Rocklin, CA

$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 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 ...

DESCRIPTION The department of Public Works currently has one (1) opening available for City Traffic Engineer in the Transportation Services Bureau - Traffic Engineering Division. Compensation will be ...

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 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.

Plan Check Engineer

Malibu, CA · On-site

$128K - $168K/yr

Malibu City Hall, CA Job Type: Full-Time Job Number: 26/27-00094 Department: Community Development ... The Plan Check Engineer performs a variety of professional duties involved in performing ...

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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 8, 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 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.

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 the most commonly searched types of City Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of City Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to City Engineer jobs in California? For City Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles 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:
Infographic showing various City Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 43% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,543 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

$159K - $237K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


City Of Escondido rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 842 rated public administrative organizations


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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