1

Civil Engineer Phd Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Engineer VI

Englewood, CO · On-site

$116K - $208K/yr

... civil, commercial, and academic mission requirements. Our Space Systems team is looking to add a ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical ...

Engineer VI

Englewood, CO · On-site

$116K - $208K/yr

... and civil science missions. Our team is adding a Project Engineer for satellite systems in ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical ...

Engineer VIII

Englewood, CO · On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

... civil science missions. Our team is adding a Chief Space Vehicle Systems Engineer in Englewood, CO ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical ...

Master's (MS) or Doctorate (PhD) in Engineering. Civil, Structural, Geotechnical, or a related field is preferred. * Extensive and proven knowledge of dams and hydropower markets, trends, and clients ...

Showing results 21-40

Civil Engineer Phd information

See Colorado salary details

$40K

$86.9K

$129.3K

How much do civil engineer phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer phd in Colorado is $86,933.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,000.00 and $103,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a civil engineer PhD?

Civil Engineer PhDs are professionals who have earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in civil engineering, which involves advanced study and research in topics such as structural engineering, transportation, geotechnical engineering, and environmental systems. They typically work in academia, research institutions, or high-level industry positions, focusing on solving complex engineering problems and advancing knowledge in the field. Civil Engineer PhDs may also teach at universities, publish research papers, and lead large-scale engineering projects. Their expertise is critical in developing innovative solutions to infrastructure and environmental challenges.

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

To thrive as a Civil Engineer PhD, you need advanced knowledge in civil engineering principles, strong research capabilities, and a doctoral degree in civil engineering or a closely related field. Expertise in simulation software (such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, or ANSYS), research methodologies, and often professional licensure (PE) or certifications are typically required. Exceptional problem-solving skills, leadership, and the ability to communicate complex concepts clearly make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for leading innovative research, advancing engineering solutions, and effectively collaborating with academic and industry stakeholders.

What are some common research and collaboration challenges faced by civil engineer PhDs in academic and industry settings?

Civil Engineers with a PhD frequently collaborate across interdisciplinary teams, which can present challenges in aligning technical language, project goals, and expectations. In academia, balancing independent research with teaching and grant writing is a common challenge, while in industry, integrating cutting-edge research into practical projects often requires effective communication with stakeholders from non-technical backgrounds. Building strong professional networks and developing project management skills are essential for overcoming these challenges and advancing in both environments.

What is the difference between Civil Engineer Phd vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCivil Engineer PhdCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsPhD in Civil Engineering, possibly with research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, advanced consultingConstruction sites, design firms, project management
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, specialized consultingConstruction companies, engineering firms, government agencies

The main difference is that a Civil Engineer Phd focuses on research, academia, and advanced analysis, while a Civil Engineer typically works on design, construction, and project implementation. The Phd often involves specialized research, whereas the Civil Engineer role emphasizes practical application and project management.

Is it worth getting a PhD in civil engineering?

A PhD in civil engineering prepares individuals for advanced research, academia, and specialized roles in areas like infrastructure design and environmental systems. It can lead to higher-level positions and increased earning potential but requires significant time and commitment, often involving research, publications, and teaching experience.

What can I do with a PhD in civil engineering?

A PhD in civil engineering prepares individuals for advanced research, teaching at the university level, and leadership roles in infrastructure design, construction, and project management. Graduates often work in academia, government agencies, or private consulting firms, utilizing skills in data analysis, modeling, and technical problem-solving.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Civil Engineer Phd jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Civil Engineer Phd job openings:

Infographic showing various Civil Engineer Phd job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,933 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

AECOM

Glenwood Springs, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


AECOM rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated construction


Job description

Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM's Mountain Division is actively seeking a highly motivated Senior Geotechnical Engineer (Dams) to join the Denver, Colorado Geotechnical Dams team, while being based in our Glenwood Springs office. In this role, you will support and collaborate with the Denver dams group, have the opportunity to work on challenging dam and hydropower projects and collaborate with a wide range of different engineering disciplines and industry professionals.
The responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
  • Oversee and perform comprehensive subsurface investigations including drilling on federal, state, municipal, and privately owned dams as well as managing CPT and geophysical data investigations, test pits, borrow area evaluations, and monitoring and performance instrumentation installations in the western US region.
  • Plan, perform, and manage complex and dynamic field exploration programs, material characterization, and laboratory testing of soil and rock materials.
  • Oversee and perform geotechnical analyses which include material characterization, seepage, slope stability, settlement, liquefaction, and deformation.
  • Prepare geotechnical engineering reports and recommendations including geotechnical data, analyses, and design-related reports.
  • Prepare and present technical presentations to project teams, clients, federal, state, and municipal regulators, and independent technical review boards.
  • Review and understanding of regulatory guidelines and industry standards necessary to conduct technical studies and carry out project design and permitting work on dams.
  • Participate in dam safety inspections and prepare summary reports with recommendations of findings.
  • Oversee and perform inspections of construction activities to monitor progress and assess conformance to engineering plans, specifications, and construction standards.
  • Prepare and/or perform peer review of calculations, designs, specifications, and construction documents.
  • Develop, oversee, and understand health and safety plans and requirements for field investigations, dam safety inspections, and construction oversight.
  • Review engineering reports, calculations, and documentation prepared by junior staff.
  • Perform quality, detailed, and accurate work by applying AECOM's QA/QC standards to their own work and work of the project team.

Qualifications
Minimum Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil / Geotechnical Engineering or a related field and 6+ years of related experience with dams or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license
  • Due to the nature of this work, a valid U.S Driver's License is required

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree or PhD in Civil Engineering
  • 10 years or more of experience with relevant dam experience
  • Experience in dam investigations, and design and evaluation (e.g., material characterization, liquefaction, seepage, slope stability, deformation, and settlement analyses)
  • Experience with 100% design-level reporting and issue for construction drawings and specifications
  • Experience leading tasks with effective delegation skills
  • Willingness to travel for fieldwork out of state for periods up to 2-3 weeks depending on the assignment.

Additional Information
  • Relocation may be available for this role
  • Sponsorship is not available now or in the future for this position.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

What AECOM employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom