ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Civil Engineer Land Development Jobs in California

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCivil Engineer Land Development JobsCivil Engineer Land Development Jobs in California

Civil Engineer Land Development information

See California salary details

$42.4K

$97.3K

$141.1K

How much do civil engineer land development jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer land development in California is $97,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Civil Engineer in Land Development do?

A Civil Engineer in Land Development is responsible for planning, designing, and managing the construction of infrastructure and site improvements for residential, commercial, and industrial projects. Their work includes preparing site plans, grading, drainage, roadways, and utility layouts while ensuring compliance with local regulations and environmental standards. They often collaborate with architects, surveyors, and local agencies to obtain necessary permits and approvals. The role requires strong technical, analytical, and communication skills to successfully guide a project from concept through construction.

What are some typical challenges faced by Civil Engineers in land development projects?

Civil Engineers working in land development often encounter challenges such as balancing project budgets with client expectations, navigating complex permitting processes, and coordinating with multiple stakeholders including architects, surveyors, and local government agencies. Managing tight project timelines while ensuring compliance with environmental and zoning regulations is also a common hurdle. Success in this role often comes from strong project management skills, effective communication, and adaptability to changing project requirements.

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

To thrive as a Civil Engineer in Land Development, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, site design, grading, and stormwater management, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and EIT or PE certification. Proficiency in technical tools like AutoCAD Civil 3D, GIS software, and hydrology modeling systems is essential. Strong project management, problem-solving, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively with clients, agencies, and multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant development projects from concept through construction.

What Does a Land Development Civil Engineer Do?

A land development civil engineer helps plan residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed-use developments. In this role, you determine the feasibility of a development project and assess the land to ensure that it can support the planned development. Once the possibility is established, you design the infrastructure, including streets, utilities, waste management, drainage, and other systems by creating drawings or using modeling software to visualize your plans. You also coordinate with other architects and engineers involved in the project. A civil engineer must ensure that infrastructure plans meet zoning requirements and do not conflict with other municipal regulations.

What is the difference between Civil Engineer Land Development vs Civil Engineer Transportation?

AspectCivil Engineer Land DevelopmentCivil Engineer Transportation
CredentialsBS in Civil Engineering, PE license often requiredBS in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentDesigning and planning land projects, working with developersDesigning transportation systems, working with public agencies
Industry UsageReal estate development, municipal planningPublic transit, highway agencies, urban planning

Both roles require similar credentials and licenses, but Civil Engineer Land Development focuses on site planning and land use, while Civil Engineer Transportation specializes in transportation infrastructure. Their work environments and industry applications differ, aligning with their specific project types.

More about Civil Engineer Land Development jobs
What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineer Land Development jobs in California? For Civil Engineer Land Development jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Civil Engineer Land Development jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Civil Engineer Land Development jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Civil Engineer Land Development jobs? Cities in California with the most Civil Engineer Land Development job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineer Land Development jobs in CA? For Civil Engineer Land Development jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Civil Engineer Land Development jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Engineer Land Development job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,287 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Civil Engineer - Land Development

Hire Resolve.com

Valencia, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Build the infrastructure behind tomorrow’s communities. We are partnering with a respected and fast-growing civil engineering firm seeking talented Civil Engineers at all levels to join their Land Development team. From entry-level engineers to experienced project leaders, these roles offer the opportunity to work on impactful residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments while advancing your technical expertise and leadership career.

Whether you enjoy hands-on design, solving complex engineering puzzles, or leading full-scale development projects, there is a place for you here.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Design and prepare land development plans including grading, drainage, sewer, and street design.
  • Assist in preparing project schedules, budgets, and work plans.
  • Perform engineering calculations related to hydrology, hydraulics, and infrastructure systems.
  • Coordinate with drafters, engineers, and project teams.
  • Conduct QA/QC reviews and ensure compliance with design standards.

Requirements

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.
  • EIT certification preferred; working toward PE licensure.
  • 2–5 years of land development design experience.
  • Strong proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D and engineering software.
  • Excellent technical and communication skills.

Benefits

Why Join This Opportunity?
  • Work on high-impact land development projects shaping growing communities.
  • Competitive compensation and clear career advancement pathways.
  • Collaborative environment with strong technical mentorship.
  • Exposure to diverse and challenging engineering projects.
  • Opportunity to grow into leadership and management roles.