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

Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering (BSCE) Duties: * Serve as Civil Engineer in the development ... Term Life / AD&D insurance * Cancer and Specified Disease insurance * Two retirement plans: 401(k) ...

We'd love to have you as a shareholder! YOUR NEXT OPPORTUNITY: The Civil Engineer III is responsible for providing Civil Engineering technical leadership and serve as a subject matter expert (SME ...

Are you Ready to Engineer Your Career? At IMEG , one of the largest design consulting firms in the ... IMEG is growing, and we'd love to have you join our team! We are currently seeking a Senior Civil ...

Civil Engineer

Temecula, CA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Engineering Analysis & Reporting: Responsible for preparing, reviewing, and signing/stamping ... In addition, NBS licenses its proprietary software, D-FAST ® , to local government agencies ...

New

Are you Ready to Engineer Your Career? At IMEG , one of the largest design consulting firms in the ... IMEG is growing, and we'd love to have you join our team! We are currently seeking a Senior Civil ...

Are you Ready to Engineer Your Career? At IMEG , one of the largest design consulting firms in the ... IMEG is growing, and we'd love to have you join our team! We are currently seeking a Senior Civil ...

Strong knowledge of core civil engineering fundamentals such as hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, low impact development, 3-D utility design, grading and earthwork, roadway and geometric alignments ...

Strong knowledge of core civil engineering fundamentals such as hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, low impact development, 3-D utility design, grading and earthwork, roadway and geometric alignments ...

Project Manager

Irvine, CA · On-site

$96K - $140K/yr

Project Manager - R.D. Olson Construction | SoCal Southern California | Commercial GC | Hospitality ... engineering wins and track profitability • Mentor PEs and APMs - grow the next generation • ...

Are you Ready to Engineer Your Career? At IMEG , one of the largest design consulting firms in the ... IMEG is growing, and we'd love to have you join our team! We are currently seeking a Senior Civil ...

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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.
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.
Civil/Structural Engineering Manager (M.S./Ph.D.)

Civil/Structural Engineering Manager (M.S./Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.

Irvine, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

About Exponent

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients' most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.  

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.  

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you'll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team! 

Key statistics: 

  • 950+ Consultants 
  • 640+ Ph.D.s 
  • 90+ Disciplines 
  • 30+ Offices globally 
Our Opportunity

We are currently seeking a Structural/Civil Engineering Manager for our Civil & Structural Engineering practice in Irvine, CA. In this role, you will work as part of a team to lead analytical and computer problem-solving, perform experimental field investigations and diagnostic surveys, and develop and maintain client relations. Assignments will require the ability to gather information from and convey technical conclusions to individuals in engineering, business, and industry.    

You will be responsible for
  • Inspection, analysis, and determination of root causes of structural/building envelope performance failures
  • Conducting projects and supervising others analytical and computer problem solving
  • Leading field investigations and diagnostic surveys
  • Preparing and presenting technical reports and complicated engineering assessments
  • Continued professional development towards maintaining professional expertise
  • Providing expert testimony where appropriate
You will have the following skills and qualifications
  • M.S./Ph.D. in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related field
  • Licensure as a Professional Engineer in the State of California
  • Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in technical engineering and project management post-graduation
  • Experience drafting/reviewing analysis, reports, and presentations
  • Effective leadership skills with the ability to positively interact with professionals, technical staff, and administrative staff
  • Outstanding professional reputation and a record of publications
  • Strong client base in similar market areas
  • A dedication to quality and accuracy

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV (Curriculum Vitae) with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page].  

Life @ Exponent

To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:

https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponenthttps://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference.

Work Environment

At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients.  #LI-Onsite

Compensation

Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Manager level and above total compensation includes base salary, annual bonus, and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is depending on experience and capabilities, which will be assessed during the interview process.

Salary RangeUSD $145,000.00 - USD $175,000.00 /Yr.Benefits you will enjoy

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page:https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent

Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.

If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com.

Job LocationsUS-CA-IrvineEmployment Type: FULL_TIME