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Civil Engineering Entry Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Public Works Civil Engineer

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$101K - $151K/yr

Minimum Qualifications The following are the minimum qualifications necessary for entry into each classification: EDUCATION: * Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field EXPERIENCE

Data Entry Specialist I

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.50/hr

Data Entry I - Tower Assessment EKN Engineering is a fast-growing civil engineering and technology consulting company located in Irvine, CA. To hit our growth goals, we are in search of a Data Entry ...

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Showing results 1-20

Civil Engineering Entry information

See California salary details

$40K

$72.6K

$119.4K

How much do civil engineering entry jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineering entry in California is $72,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $87,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do to get started with civil engineering entry?

To start a career in civil engineering, obtain a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field, and develop skills in design, mathematics, and project management. Gaining internships or entry-level experience, and earning relevant certifications like Engineer-in-Training (EIT), can improve job prospects and practical knowledge.

What careers do civil engineers go into?

Civil engineers can pursue careers in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. They often work in consulting firms, government agencies, or construction companies, utilizing skills in project management, surveying, and computer-aided design (CAD). Certification and knowledge of safety standards are important for advancement in these fields.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level civil engineers, and how can they best prepare for them?

Entry-level civil engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to project management tools, understanding regulatory requirements, and effectively communicating with multidisciplinary teams. They may also need to quickly develop problem-solving skills to address site-specific issues or adapt to unexpected changes in project scope. To prepare, candidates should focus on strengthening their technical foundation, seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, and proactively engage in team meetings to build confidence and familiarity with industry practices.

What are civil engineering entry-level jobs?

Civil engineering entry-level jobs are positions for recent graduates or those new to the field, typically involving assisting in the design, planning, and supervision of construction projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. These roles often include tasks like preparing reports, conducting site inspections, using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and supporting senior engineers. Entry-level civil engineers gain hands-on experience and develop technical skills while working under the guidance of more experienced professionals, laying the foundation for future career advancement.

How to become a civil engineering entry with no experience?

To start a career in civil engineering with no experience, pursue a relevant bachelor's degree such as civil engineering or a related field. Gaining internships, entry-level positions, or apprenticeships can provide practical skills, and obtaining certifications like OSHA safety training can improve employability. Building knowledge of engineering software and technical skills also helps in securing an entry-level civil engineering role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civil engineering entry?

To thrive as a Civil Engineering Entry, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, mathematics, and design, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field. Familiarity with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and other design or project management software, as well as EIT (Engineer-in-Training) certification, is highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate on teams and address project challenges. These competencies ensure quality, safety, and efficiency in designing and executing infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Civil Engineering Entry vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectCivil Engineering EntryCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or diploma in civil engineering technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, project management, site supervisionAssisting engineers with drafting, surveying, and data collection
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, government agenciesEngineering firms, construction companies, consulting firms

While both roles support civil engineering projects, Civil Engineering Entry typically involves a bachelor's degree and focuses on design and project management, whereas Civil Engineering Technicians usually hold an associate degree and assist engineers with technical tasks like drafting and surveying.

What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineering Entry jobs in California? For Civil Engineering Entry jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Civil Engineering Entry job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,565 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Civil Engineering | Engineer

RRM Design Group

San Leandro, CA

$36.75 - $45.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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.