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Civil Engineering Entry Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer - Traffic

Encinitas, CA ยท On-site

$116K - $181K/yr

Licensing Requirements (position requirements at entry): Professional Engineering (P.E.) License with the State of California in Civil Engineering California Traffic Engineer Registration Application ...

Oversee the Right-of-Entry (ROE) process, including form development and approval. * Support ... Bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction management, field surveying, land and property ...

Structural Design Engineer

Concord, CA ยท On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry to mid-level engineer with 5-10 years of structural ... Required: * 5-10 years of structural engineering experience * Bachelor's degree in Civil ...

This is an excellent opportunity for an entry to mid-level engineer with 510 years of structural ... Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering * Experience designing structural ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Senior Engineer - Traffic

City of Encinitas

Encinitas, CA โ€ข On-site

$116K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Position The City of Encinitas is seeking a skilled Senior Engineer - Traffic to lead complex traffic and transportation projects, perform traffic studies, evaluate traffic-related infrastructure needs, and develop improvements that enhance mobility and safety citywide. This role prepares and reviews traffic plans, including Signing & Striping Plans, Traffic Control Plans, Lighting Plans, and Signal Plans, supervises and mentors engineering staff, supports the City Traffic Engineer, and represents the City in public, stakeholder, and interagency meetings. The ideal candidate excels in collaboration, technical analysis, and delivering high-quality, efficient transportation solutions.

Looking for more than just a job. Join a team where your work makes a difference. License Requirements: Professional Engineering (P.E.) License with the State of California in Civil Engineering OR California Traffic Engineer Registration Examples of Important & Essential Duties (included but not limited to) Essential Duties: (These duties are a representative sample; position assignments may vary.) Manage and deliver complex traffic engineering and transportation projects from planning through design and construction

Perform traffic engineering studies, prepare engineering reports, and develop recommendations to improve traffic operations and safety. Prepare and review traffic signal, signing, striping, pavement marking, and traffic control plans. Provide technical guidance and mentorship to engineering staff and assist with project coordination and workload management.

Assist the City Traffic Engineer in supporting division operations and implementing departmental priorities. Prepare staff reports, technical presentations, and correspondence for City Council, the Mobility & Traffic Safety Commission, Planning Commission, and other public meetings. Assist with the preparation and conduct of monthly Mobility & Traffic Safety Commission meetings.

Review development proposals, traffic impact studies, and transportation improvement plans for compliance with City standards. Support the administration of consultant and contractor contracts, including coordinating project activities, reviewing deliverables, monitoring schedules and budgets, and ensuring successful project implementation. Coordinate with consultants, contractors, developers, regional agencies, and other City departments.

Respond to public inquiries and represent the City at community meetings, stakeholder meetings, and interagency coordination meetings. Stay current with applicable engineering standards, regulations, and best practices, and perform other related duties as assigned. Conduct reviews and apply conditions of development for private development projects.

Click HERE to read the full job description. Minimum Qualifications Training and Experience (position requirements at entry): Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, plus five years experience as a Professional Engineer in Civil or Traffic, and two years of supervisory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job such as those listed above. Licensing Requirements (position requirements at entry): Professional Engineering (P.E.) License with the State of California in Civil Engineering California Traffic Engineer Registration Application Process and Deadline This job posting will be open until the position is filled

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and qualified applicants will be invited for an interview. If you're ready to contribute your talents and grow your career while serving an exceptional coastal community, we encourage you to apply today. First review of applications will be on the week on August 10, 2026.

The City of Encinitas and the San Dieguito Water District provide equal opportunity employment for all persons without regard to race, color, religion/religious creed, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender, gender identity, gender expression, physical disability, mental disability, marital status, age, physical disability, ancestry, genetic information, medical condition, political affiliations, veteran status, Family Leave Act status, AB60 CA Driver's License status or status with pregnancy, child birth or breastfeeding. The City and Water District encourage minorities, disabled persons and women to apply. Qualified applicants who move to the next level of the selection process must notify the Human Resources Office if accommodation is needed.

A thorough background check will be conducted for the candidate(s) seriously considered for the position including fingerprinting and reference checking. A contingent job offer may be given pending the results of medical evaluation, which includes a physical, TB test and drug and alcohol screening. Applicants will be required to submit verification of the legal right to work in the United States.

The provisions of this bulletin do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained in this bulletin may be modified or revoked without notice.