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Civil Engineering R&D Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

R D Olson Construction

Project Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Project Engineer - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Sedona, AZ & Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + Multifamily This isn't just another construction job. It's your launchpad. At R.D.

Arup

Civil Engineering Leader

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

We are looking for an experienced Civil Engineering Leader to join us in the Los Angeles office and play a pivotal role in leading and growing our civil engineering team. The ideal candidate should ...

TSAC Engineering

Registered Civil Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$68 - $80/hr

TSAC Engineering is a growing Civil Engineering and Land Surveying firm with plenty of room for ... Life/AD&D Coverage * Long Term Disability * 401K with Employer Contribution * Medical/Dependent ...

TSAC Engineering

Registered Civil Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$68 - $80/hr

TSAC Engineering is a growing Civil Engineering and Land Surveying firm withplenty of room for ... Life/AD&D Coverage * Long Term Disability * 401K with Employer Contribution * Medical/Dependent ...

JRG Partners

Director of R & D

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$210K - $240K/yr

Our client, a leading Food Technology Company is seeking a R & D Director. This is a fast growing ... Bachelor's degree in food engineering, food science or a similar discipline; Master's degree or MBA ...

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Civil Engineering R D information

See California salary details

$16

$25

$40

How much do civil engineering r&d jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for civil engineering r&d in California is $25.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In civil engineering research and development, senior engineers with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills can reach or exceed a $300,000 annual salary, especially in leadership roles or consulting positions. High compensation often correlates with project complexity, industry demand, and geographic location, as well as certifications like PE (Professional Engineer).

How much money do R&D engineers make?

R&D engineers in civil engineering typically earn between $70,000 and $110,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in design software or project management can earn higher salaries. Entry-level positions generally start around $60,000 to $70,000.

What is a Civil Engineering R&D job?

A Civil Engineering R&D (Research and Development) job involves investigating, designing, and testing new materials, construction techniques, and infrastructure solutions. Professionals in this role work on improving sustainability, safety, and efficiency in civil engineering projects. They collaborate with engineers, scientists, and regulatory bodies to develop innovative technologies and optimize existing systems. This role often includes computational modeling, laboratory experimentation, and field testing.

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

Earning $500,000 as a civil engineer is uncommon and typically requires senior-level positions, extensive experience, specialized skills, or leadership roles in large projects. Most civil engineers earn lower salaries, but those in management, consulting, or working in high-cost regions may approach or exceed this level with bonuses and profit sharing.

What are some typical responsibilities of a Civil Engineering R&D professional?

A Civil Engineering R&D professional is generally responsible for designing and executing research projects that target improvements in materials, construction methods, or infrastructure systems. This often includes conducting experiments, analyzing complex data sets, preparing technical reports, and collaborating with both academic and industry partners. Many R&D engineers also prototype new technologies or processes and work closely with field engineers and project managers to ensure their research is practical and implementable. The role combines hands-on engineering knowledge with innovative thinking to help advance the industry while contributing to safer, more sustainable infrastructure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Civil Engineering R&D position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Civil Engineering R&D, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, advanced problem-solving abilities, and typically a degree in civil engineering or a related field, often with postgraduate research experience. Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, finite element analysis software, and knowledge of industry standards or certifications (such as Professional Engineer licensure) are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, effective communication, and teamwork set exceptional candidates apart. These skills are essential for developing innovative solutions, conducting high-quality research, and driving advancements in infrastructure and construction technologies.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior civil engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in consulting or managerial positions. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and working in high-demand or large-scale projects.
What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineering R&D jobs in California? For Civil Engineering R&D jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Civil Engineering R&D jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Civil Engineering R&D jobs in California are:
Civil Engineering R D jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Engineering R&D job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,120 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Project Engineer

R D Olson Construction

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Project Engineer - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal
Sedona, AZ & Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality + Multifamily
This isn't just another construction job. It's your launchpad.
At R.D. Olson Construction, we're not just building projects - we're building careers. If you're early in your construction career and hungry to grow, we've built a Project Engineer role designed to accelerate you into a leadership path.
You'll be deeply embedded in the construction of major hotel and multifamily developments, where your coordination, communication, and hustle will directly impact the success of $20M-$40M projects. This is where the learning curve is steep, the standards are high, and the potential is real.
Why This Role Matters
As a Project Engineer, you'll be at the heart of it all - tracking RFIs and submittals, coordinating with top-tier subcontractors, and ensuring every material delivery and meeting runs like clockwork. You'll be the link that keeps the site running smoothly and the team aligned.
But this isn't just a checklist job - it's your first step toward becoming a Project Manager. You'll be learning directly from experienced leaders, earning trust through results, and taking on more responsibility every month. We've built the ladder. You just have to climb it.
Why Top Performers Choose R.D. Olson
➡ You'll grow fast.
From day one, you're part of our Project Manager Career Ladder - supported by RD Olson University and mentors who've been in your shoes.
➡ You'll make an impact.
You'll support signature construction projects across Southern California, representing the next generation of innovation in hospitality and housing.
➡ You'll be part of something real.
This isn't a job where you push paper. It's a job where you walk job sites, solve real problems, and see your work come to life - day after day.
What You Bring
  • A degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or hands-on experience as a Project Engineer
  • Confidence using Microsoft Project, Excel, and Procore or similar tools
  • A Southern California base and willingness to travel to job sites
  • A mindset for growth, grit, and detail - not just checking boxes

Your Career, Engineered for Impact
Whether you're fresh from school or bringing a few years of field experience, this role is built to grow with you. Within your first year, you'll:
  • Master RFIs, submittals, and procurement coordination
  • Support $20M-$40M projects with real impact
  • Build the relationships and reps you'll need to lead
  • Explore how to use AI and automation to do it smarter and faster
This is a role where high performers thrive - and where those who show initiative are never held back.
Let's Build What's Next - Together
If you're ready to turn your potential into a plan and your ambition into action, we want to talk. At R.D. Olson, we don't just offer jobs - we offer careers worth building.
What You'll Receive
Salary of $65,000 to $96,000 plus construction bonus. 100% associate health insurance. 401k plan with matching. Paid time off. Volunteer opportunities.
Apply www.rdolson.com/culture-and-careers/#jobs

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