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Civil Engineer Design Engineer Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Principal Civil Engineer

Lompoc, CA ยท On-site

$11K - $13K/mo

Click for Principal Civil Engineer Brochure. The Principal Civil Engineer manages, oversees ... Oversees design, construction management, and inspection of public improvements * Develops the ...

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Civil Engineer Design Engineer information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$39K

$84.7K

$126.1K

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer design engineer in Santa Maria, CA is $84,744.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,200.00 and $101,000.00 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 Santa Maria, CA?

For Civil Engineer Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Civil Engineer Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Civil Engineer Design Engineer jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Civil Engineer Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Civil Engineer Design Engineer job openings:

Civil Engineering | Engineer

RRM Design Group

San Luis Obispo, CA โ€ข On-site

$36.75 - $45.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Description

Join the vibrant team at RRM Design Group - a powerhouse of innovation and creativity! As a 100% employee-owned company, we're not just a firm; we're a community of architects, engineers, landscape architects, planners, and surveyors. Throughout California, we undertake projects from conception to realization, resulting in authentic, innovative, and timeless designs that strive to make a lasting and positive impact on those who encounter them.
In our Civil Engineering department, adventure awaits as we tackle an exhilarating array of projects in land development. From building essential infrastructure to crafting breathtaking parks and trails, our team pushes boundaries and sparks change. Plus, you'll have the chance to work alongside brilliant minds across different disciplines, fostering innovation and unleashing your full potential.
Ready to embark on an exciting journey? Join us now as we seek entry to upper-level civil engineers to be part of our dynamic team. Let's create something extraordinary together!

Requirements

What you'll bring to the table:

Entry Level: Engineer I - Engineer II

  • A Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Work experience in Civil 3D.
  • 1 -3 years

Mid to Upper Level: Project Engineers - Project Managers

  • A Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • Work experience in Civil 3D.
  • 5 -10 years
  • A valid California PE license is strongly preferred. Alternatively, candidates who have passed the national portion of the exam and are actively pursuing the CA portion are also encouraged to apply.


Above & Beyond:

Some work experience in architecture, engineering, surveying, landscape architecture, or planning firm.

We're eager to learn more about your qualifications and interest in joining our team!


*Psst...at RRM, we recognize that factors such as imposter syndrome or the confidence gap may deter some applicants from applying. However, we encourage you to apply anyways, as we recognize these restraints do not reflect an applicant's abilities, and we don't want them to get in the way of us meeting potential RRMers!


ABOUT US:


Ensuring the health and happiness of our RRMers is paramount to how we run our business. RRM Design Group is a 100% employee-owned multidiscipline design firm with a full spectrum of services including architecture, landscape architecture, planning, civil and structural engineering, and surveying. Our offices are located along the California coast from Orange County to the Bay Area. Over one-third of our workforce has been with us for a decade or more and we work on engaging projects in several diverse markets throughout the state.


We value the diversity of intersecting identities and strive to maintain an environment that is equitable, respectful, and inclusive. We expect our work environments to be places of diverse engagement and informed discourse. Ultimately, we acknowledge that our standards of excellence as a multidiscipline design firm are not separate from the values of diversity, equity, and inclusion.


COMPENSATION: The hiring ranges below depend on skills and experience.

Engineer I - $36.75 -$40.88 per hour.

Engineer II: $41.00 - $45.75 per hour.