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Civil Engineer Design Engineer Jobs in California

We're hiring a Transportation Design Engineer with a couple years of experience in civil infrastructure design to join our Bay Area offices. You'll collaborate within a multidisciplinary team on a ...

We're hiring a Transportation Design Engineer with a couple years of experience in civil infrastructure design to join our Bay Area offices. You'll collaborate within a multidisciplinary team on a ...

We're hiring a Transportation Design Engineer with a couple years of experience in civil infrastructure design to join our Bay Area offices. You'll collaborate within a multidisciplinary team on a ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

In general, the Lead Civil Engineer is responsible for preparing engineering calculations ... Responsible for a team performing conceptual and detailed engineering design, engineering ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Long Beach, CA ยท On-site

$175K - $200K/yr

In general, the Lead Civil Engineer is responsible for preparing engineering calculations ... Responsible for a team performing conceptual and detailed engineering design, engineering ...

Showing results 41-60

Civil Engineer Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$81.6K

$121.4K

How much do civil engineer design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer design engineer in California is $81,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a civil engineer design engineer do?

A Civil Engineer Design Engineer is responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing construction projects related to infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. They use engineering principles and computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans and specifications. Their work ensures that projects are safe, efficient, and compliant with regulations. They often collaborate with architects, construction teams, and government agencies to bring projects from concept to completion.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civil engineer design engineer?

To thrive as a Civil Engineer Design Engineer, you need a solid understanding of structural analysis, mathematics, and civil engineering principles, typically backed by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and professional licensure (such as EIT or PE). Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and STAAD.Pro, as well as familiarity with relevant building codes and standards, is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure safe, efficient, and innovative infrastructure designs that meet client and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by civil engineer design engineers when working on large-scale infrastructure projects?

Civil Engineer Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, adapting to changing project requirements, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Managing tight deadlines while maintaining design accuracy and cost-effectiveness is also a frequent hurdle. Additionally, effective communication with architects, contractors, and other engineering disciplines is crucial for resolving design conflicts and ensuring project success.

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

AspectCivil Engineer Design EngineerCivil Engineer Project Manager
Primary RoleDesigns and develops civil engineering projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings.Oversees project execution, manages teams, and ensures project completion within scope, time, and budget.
CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering; licensure often required.Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field; often requires professional engineering license.
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, CAD software.Construction sites, offices, client meetings.
Industry UsageFocuses on technical design and planning.Focuses on project management and coordination.

While Civil Engineer Design Engineers concentrate on creating detailed project designs, Civil Engineer Project Managers oversee the entire project process, ensuring designs are implemented effectively. Both roles require engineering credentials and often work together in civil construction projects.

What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineer Design Engineer jobs in California?

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Civil Engineer Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Civil Engineer Design Engineer job openings:

Design Engineer - Civil Transportation

BKF

San Jose, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

BKF is a multi-service infrastructure consulting firm providing civil engineering and surveying services across California, the Pacific Northwest, and beyond. With offices throughout California and the Portland area, BKF has served transportation, water resources, land development, government, and federal clients for over 110 years.

At BKF, you’ll find a unique opportunity to grow your career with intention. Our culture values professional autonomy, innovation, and meaningful collaboration across offices. We are proud to be recognized with the Great Place to Work certification for the second year in a row.

We’re hiring a Transportation Design Engineer with a couple years of experience in civil infrastructure design to join our Bay Area offices. You’ll collaborate within a multidisciplinary team on a wide range of transportation projects, contributing from concept through construction documentation. As part of BKF’s Transportation team, you’ll work alongside of experienced engineers on assignments spanning roadway, highway, and public infrastructure. You’ll apply standard engineering techniques and judgment while gaining hands-on experience and growing in a supportive environment. Proficiency in AutoCAD/Civil 3D and a California E.I.T. certification are strong assets, along with a proactive mindset and eagerness to learn.

Responsibilities

  • Perform geometric calculations and plotting, including cross-sections, profiles, and alignments for transportation design projects
  • Conduct routine hydraulics calculations to support drainage and utility system design
  • Prepare site grading calculations and generate grading plans using CAD tools
  • Utilize computer and CAD systems, including AutoCAD Civil 3D, to develop and refine design documents
  • Gather and analyze data from public agencies to support project planning, permitting, and design decisions
  • Collaborate with project engineers and managers to ensure design accuracy and alignment with project goals
  • Assist in reviewing plans and calculations for completeness and compliance with applicable standards

Requirements

  • B.S. in Civil Engineering or a related field from an ABET-accredited curriculum (or equivalent) required
  • 1-3 years of experience in site development and design of residential and/or commercial subdivisions, utility systems, roadways, and public works projects
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and judgment in support of project design
  • Familiarity with civil engineering design principles and documentation
  • EIT (Engineer-in-Training) or FE (Fundamentals of Engineering) certification preferred
  • Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D for grading, drainage, and utility design preferred

Physical Demands: Must be able to regularly talk, hear and operate a computer, keyboard and mouse and occasionally lift, pull/push and carry up to 20 pounds with accommodations.

Work Conditions: Exposure to constant or intermittent sounds at a low or moderate level consistent with an office setting. Exposure to high-stress, fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment. Travel to other BKF locations and client sites may be required.

Benefits

  • The typical base salary range for this position is $75,000.00 - $100,00.00, annualized depending upon skills, experience, education, and geographical location. This is a salary position paid biweekly.
  • Competitive salaries, end of year bonuses, profit sharing, and 401k.
  • Generous paid time off packages.
  • 9 Paid Holidays.
  • Flexible schedules.
  • Education reimbursement, Paid annual dues for professional and societal organizations.
  • BKF offers competitive and award-winning benefits and perks. To learn more click here.

BKF Engineers provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

BKF Engineers does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and a specific solicitation for the position or other approved engagement request for the position with BKF Engineers, BKF Engineers reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited submittals are done at the risk of the recruiter.

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