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Civil Design Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Civil Design Engineer This Civil Design Engineer role focuses on a wide range of land development projects, including site planning, stormwater management design, utility design ...

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Civil Design Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$32 - $39/hr

Civil Design Engineer Essential Skills * 5+ years of civil design experience in Civil 3D for land development/site development projects. * Proficiency in Civil Engineering, Design, and Civil Design.

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Civil Design Engineer Essential Skills * 5+ years of civil design experience in Civil 3D for land development/site development projects. * Proficiency in Civil Engineering, Design, and Civil Design.

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MSG is seeking a motivated Civil Design Engineer with 1-3 years of experience and strong Autodesk Civil 3D skills. This role supports engineers and project managers in producing civil/site design ...

Civil Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Key Responsibilities MSG is seeking a motivated Civil Design Engineer with 1-3 years of experience and strong Autodesk Civil 3D skills. This role supports engineers and project managers in producing ...

Civil Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

Key Responsibilities MSG is seeking a motivated Civil Design Engineer with 1-3 years of experience and strong Autodesk Civil 3D skills. This role supports engineers and project managers in producing ...

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Required Skills & Experience: -Bachelors Degree in Electrical or Mechanical or Civil Engineering -0 ... design work, civil engineering, electrical experience and programming experience - Must be ...

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Required Skills & Experience: -Bachelors Degree in Electrical or Mechanical or Civil Engineering -0 ... design work, civil engineering, electrical experience and programming experience - Must be ...

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The Civil Engineer is responsible for site design, specializing in stormwater drainage, site grading, utility design, and administering local agency reviews. The position will collaborate closely ...

The Civil Engineer is responsible for site design, specializing in stormwater drainage, site grading, utility design, and administering local agency reviews. The position will collaborate closely ...

Civil Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · Hybrid

$33 - $41/hr

Civil Engineer The Staff Engineer supports civil engineering design and analysis for a wide range of site civil and land development projects. In this role, you ensure that all work complies with ...

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Civil Design Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$37K

$71.3K

$102K

How much do civil design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil design engineer in Michigan is $71,300.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,400.00 and $81,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Civil Design Engineer typically collaborate with other professionals on large infrastructure projects?

As a Civil Design Engineer, you’ll regularly work alongside architects, surveyors, construction managers, and environmental specialists to ensure that all aspects of a project align with regulatory standards and client requirements. Collaboration often involves participating in multidisciplinary meetings, sharing design drafts, resolving technical issues, and coordinating project timelines. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as your design decisions directly impact construction, budgeting, and long-term project sustainability. This collaborative environment helps broaden your experience and can open opportunities for advancement into project management or specialized technical roles.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior civil design engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and advanced certifications can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand sectors or consulting roles. Achieving this level often requires leadership responsibilities, project management, and expertise in complex infrastructure projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Civil Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civil Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, mathematics, and design standards, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and EIT or PE certification. Proficiency with CAD software (like AutoCAD or Civil 3D), structural analysis tools, and project management systems is essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help set you apart in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative infrastructure solutions that meet regulatory requirements and client needs.

What is the difference between Civil Design Engineer vs Civil Drafter?

AspectCivil Design EngineerCivil Drafter
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredAssociate degree or certification in drafting or CAD software
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, field sites, project planningDesign offices, CAD labs, drafting stations
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, government agenciesArchitectural and engineering firms, construction companies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, responsibilitiesLearning drafting skills, job requirements, career path

The Civil Design Engineer focuses on creating and analyzing civil infrastructure designs, requiring a degree and licensure. Civil Drafters primarily prepare technical drawings using CAD software, often with an associate degree. While both roles work in similar environments and industries, the Civil Design Engineer has a broader scope involving project planning and engineering analysis, whereas Civil Drafters concentrate on drafting and documentation tasks.

What do design civil engineers do?

Design civil engineers develop plans and specifications for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and drainage systems. They use engineering principles, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and project management skills to create safe, efficient, and sustainable designs that meet regulatory standards. Their work often involves collaboration with architects, surveyors, and construction teams throughout project development.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-demand industries.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

While most civil engineers earn less than $200,000 annually, senior-level professionals with extensive experience, specialized skills, or leadership roles can potentially reach or exceed $500,000 in total compensation, especially in high-demand areas or with additional responsibilities. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, project management expertise, and working for large firms or in consulting roles.

What are Civil Design Engineers?

Civil Design Engineers are professionals who plan, design, and oversee the construction and maintenance of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, water systems, and buildings. They use engineering principles and software tools to create detailed plans and ensure that projects meet safety, environmental, and regulatory standards. Civil Design Engineers collaborate with architects, contractors, and government agencies throughout the project lifecycle to deliver functional and sustainable structures.
What are popular job titles related to Civil Design Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Civil Design Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Civil Design Engineer jobs in MI? For Civil Design Engineer jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Civil Design Engineer

Civil Design Engineer

Actalent

Grand Rapids, MI • Hybrid

$32 - $39/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Be an early applicant


Job description

Job Title: Civil Design Engineer
Job Description

This Civil Design Engineer role focuses on a wide range of land development projects, including site planning, stormwater management design, utility design, sustainable design, and overall site development. You will contribute to the design and permitting of development projects across the state of Michigan, including schools, commercial buildings, retail facilities, and institutional developments. This position offers the opportunity to build deep expertise in local civil development projects and to grow a long-term career in civil design and engineering.

Responsibilities

  • Plan and develop site plans, including grading, drainage, zoning, and utility layouts for land and site development projects.
  • Prepare detailed project drawings, engineering calculations, and technical specifications for civil design projects.
  • Create schematic designs, layouts, drafting, and complete construction documents using AutoCAD Civil 3D.
  • Evaluate land use and zoning requirements, including interpretation of zoning ordinances and preparation of materials for site plan approval.
  • Prepare and submit permit applications, coordinate agency reviews, and obtain required approvals for development projects.
  • Design stormwater management systems, including drainage, pipe networks, and related site infrastructure.
  • Develop civil design production plans for land and site development, ensuring accuracy, constructability, and compliance with applicable standards.
  • Coordinate civil site design elements for projects such as K–12 schools, commercial buildings, retail, and institutional facilities.
  • Conduct site visits during the construction phase to observe work, verify conformance with design documents, and support field-related questions.
  • Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure integrated, efficient, and compliant civil design solutions.
Essential Skills
  • Minimum 3+ years of civil design experience using AutoCAD Civil 3D for land development and site development projects.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D for design plan production, including grading, drainage, utility design, and stormwater management systems.
  • Demonstrated experience in civil site development and civil land development projects.
  • Strong understanding of site planning, including site plans, zoning considerations, and site plan approval processes.
  • Experience preparing construction documents, including drawings, layouts, and specifications for civil design projects.
  • Knowledge of stormwater management design, drainage systems, and pipe network design.
  • Ability to evaluate and apply zoning ordinances and land use requirements to civil site design.
  • Background in civil engineering or closely related civil design disciplines.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering.
  • EIT (Engineer-in-Training) or PE (Professional Engineer) license.
  • Experience in civil site design for K–12 education, school, or commercial projects.
  • Familiarity with sustainable design practices in land and site development.
  • Experience preparing permit applications and coordinating agency reviews and approvals.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, high-quality design documentation.
  • Effective communication skills for coordinating with project teams and stakeholders.
  • Motivation to develop a long-term career in civil design or civil engineering.
Work Environment

This position is based in Michigan, with offices located in Grand Rapids and Lansing. The typical schedule averages 40 hours per week and follows a hybrid model, with three days in the office and two days working remotely. You will work in a professional office environment using AutoCAD Civil 3D and other civil design tools to support land and site development projects across the state. The role involves a combination of desk-based design work and occasional site visits during the construction phase to observe field conditions and support project implementation.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Grand Rapids, MI.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $32.00 - $39.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Grand Rapids,MI.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Jun 30, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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