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Civil Engineer Project Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Cage Engineering

Civil Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

You'll work side-by-side with licensed engineers and project managers on tasks such as: * Preparing ... Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (or expected graduation by May 2026) * EIT certification or ...

Cage Engineering Inc

Civil Engineer

Lisle, IL · On-site

You'll work side-by-side with licensed engineers and project managers on tasks such as: * Preparing ... Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (or expected graduation by May 2026) * EIT certification or ...

The Will Group

Civil Design Project Manager

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$125K - $155K/yr

Civil Design Project Manager Location: Shorewood, IL (Hybrid) Salary Range: $125,000 - $155,000 ... As part of TWG Engineering, you'll join a team of Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, GIS ...

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All JobsCivil Engineer Project JobsCivil Engineer Project Manager JobsCivil Engineer Project Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Civil Engineer Project Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$61.3K

$103.7K

$143.8K

How much do civil engineer project manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer project manager in Chicago, IL is $103,676.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,600.00 and $117,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can a civil engineer be a project manager?

Yes, a civil engineer can serve as a project manager, especially in construction and infrastructure projects. Civil engineers often develop skills in project planning, budgeting, and leadership, which are essential for project management roles, and many pursue certifications like PMP to enhance their qualifications.

What is the role of a project manager in civil engineering?

A civil engineering project manager oversees planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects, ensuring they meet deadlines, budgets, and quality standards. They coordinate teams, communicate with stakeholders, and manage resources using tools like project management software. Certification such as PMP can enhance their effectiveness in the role.

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

Civil engineer project managers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can potentially earn $500,000 annually, especially in large infrastructure projects or senior executive positions. However, such high salaries are uncommon and typically require many years of specialized work, strong negotiation skills, and working in high-paying regions or industries.

What does a Civil Engineer Project Manager do?

A Civil Engineer Project Manager oversees the planning, design, and execution of civil engineering projects such as roads, bridges, and infrastructure developments. They coordinate with clients, engineers, contractors, and government agencies to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities include managing project timelines, budgets, resources, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills are essential in this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Civil Engineer Project Managers when overseeing large infrastructure projects?

Civil Engineer Project Managers often encounter challenges such as coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing tight deadlines, and ensuring regulatory compliance throughout a project's lifecycle. Balancing client expectations with budget constraints and unforeseen site conditions can also test their problem-solving skills. Effective communication and adaptability are crucial, as project managers must regularly liaise with contractors, stakeholders, and government agencies to keep projects on track and within scope.

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

AspectCivil Engineer Project ManagerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, Project Management Certification often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often required
Work EnvironmentOversees projects, manages teams, coordinates with clients and contractorsDesigns, analyzes, and supervises construction of civil engineering projects
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction firms, engineering consultancies, government agenciesEngineering firms, construction companies, government departments

The main difference is that a Civil Engineer Project Manager focuses on overseeing entire projects, managing teams, and ensuring timely completion, while a Civil Engineer primarily handles technical design, analysis, and supervision of construction activities. Both roles require a civil engineering background, but the project manager also emphasizes leadership and coordination skills.

Do project managers or civil engineers get paid more?

Civil engineers and project managers often have different salary ranges; generally, project managers tend to earn higher salaries due to their leadership and responsibility roles, especially when managing large projects and budgets. Civil engineers typically earn less but can increase their earnings with experience, certifications, and specialization in areas like structural or transportation engineering.

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

To thrive as a Civil Engineer Project Manager, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, project management, and a relevant degree such as a BS in Civil Engineering, along with Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Familiarity with project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera), CAD tools, and construction management systems is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are critical soft skills for coordinating teams and stakeholders. These skills ensure projects are completed safely, on time, within budget, and to regulatory standards.
What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineer Project Manager jobs in Chicago, IL? For Civil Engineer Project Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Civil Engineer Project Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Civil Engineer Project Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Civil Engineer Project Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Civil Engineer Project Manager job openings:
Civil Engineer Project Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Engineer Project Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 85% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,676 per year, or $49.8 per hour.
Civil Engineer Project Manager

Civil Engineer Project Manager

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$165K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted yesterday

Job description

Title: Civil Engineer Project Manager
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: $165,000–$190,000 + Bonus
Benefits: 401(k) with company match, Medical, Dental, Vision, Paid Parental Leave, Short-Term Disability, Professional Development, Leadership Development, Employee Ownership Pathway

Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Civil Engineer Project Manager to join a growing leadership team. This opportunity is ideal for a licensed Professional Engineer with a proven background managing transportation infrastructure projects, developing strong client relationships, and leading multidisciplinary teams. This role offers the opportunity to influence organizational growth while advancing toward long-term leadership and employee ownership.

Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership
  • Manage construction management and roadway engineering projects from planning through construction.
  • Lead project teams to deliver high-quality work on schedule and within budget.
  • Coordinate project activities with clients, stakeholders, subconsultants, contractors, and regulatory agencies.
  • Monitor project performance, project financials, schedules, and resource allocation.
Client Relationship Management
  • Serve as the primary point of contact and trusted advisor for clients.
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with IDOT, Illinois Tollway, CDOT, counties, municipalities, and other public agencies.
  • Represent the organization at industry events, professional organizations, and client meetings.
Business Development
  • Support strategic growth initiatives and market expansion efforts.
  • Participate in proposal preparation, teaming strategies, interviews, and pursuit planning.
  • Identify new business opportunities and strengthen the organization's presence within the transportation infrastructure market.
Team Leadership
  • Mentor engineers, inspectors, and project staff.
  • Support professional development and succession planning initiatives.
  • Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing team environment focused on continuous improvement.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field required.
  • Master's degree preferred.
  • Current Illinois Professional Engineer (PE) license required.
  • Documentation of Quantities Certification preferred.
  • 10+ years of experience managing highway and roadway projects.
  • Experience with building and roadway construction management.
  • Strong knowledge of IDOT, CDOT, Illinois Tollway, and other transportation agency systems and operations.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and client presentations.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Base salary: $165,000–$190,000
  • Annual performance-based bonus opportunities
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Short-Term Disability coverage
  • Professional development and continuing education support
  • Leadership development opportunities
  • Employee ownership pathway for qualified leaders

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.