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Civil Engineering Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Civil Engineer Trainee

New Brunswick, NJ ยท On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... Trainee performs basic engineering and related tasks. Duties include assisting with the design ... Engineering & Design Support * Reviews and interprets engineering plans and specifications.

Civil Engineer Trainee

New Brunswick, NJ ยท On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

... Trainee performs basic engineering and related tasks. Duties include assisting with the design ... Engineering & Design Support * Reviews and interprets engineering plans and specifications.

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Civil Engineering Trainee information

See salary details

$34K

$71.4K

$108K

How much do civil engineering trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineering trainee in the United States is $71,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as a Civil Engineering Trainee?

As a Civil Engineering Trainee, you can expect to support various phases of infrastructure and construction projects, such as site surveys, drafting technical drawings, and assisting with project management tasks. You may be involved in fieldwork, collecting data, or conducting quality checks, as well as working alongside experienced engineers to learn about materials testing, safety protocols, and regulatory compliance. The team environment is typically collaborative, offering opportunities to shadow senior engineers, contribute to meetings, and gain exposure to real-world engineering challenges. This hands-on experience helps you build foundational skills and understand the workflow of larger civil engineering projects.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Civil engineering trainees can start their careers at any age, including 40 or older, as the field values experience, skills, and certifications. Many successful engineers have entered the profession later in life, and ongoing education or professional development can help build necessary technical knowledge and credentials.

What is a trainee civil engineer?

A trainee civil engineer is an entry-level professional undergoing practical training to develop skills in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They typically work under supervision, learn industry standards, and may pursue certifications like a Chartered Engineer qualification. This role provides hands-on experience essential for advancing in civil engineering careers.

What are Civil Engineering Trainees?

Civil Engineering Trainees are entry-level professionals who are gaining practical experience in the civil engineering field, often as part of a structured training program or during the early stages of their career. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers and assist with tasks such as site inspections, drafting designs, preparing reports, and learning about project management. The goal of a Civil Engineering Trainee is to develop the technical, analytical, and communication skills necessary to become a fully qualified civil engineer.

What is the difference between Civil Engineering Trainee vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCivil Engineering TraineeCivil Engineer
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a degree in civil engineeringBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field, professional licensure often required
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level setting, supervised on-site or office tasksFull-time professional role, responsible for project design, planning, and management
ResponsibilitiesAssisting senior engineers, learning industry practices, supporting project tasksDesigning projects, overseeing construction, ensuring compliance and safety

In summary, a Civil Engineering Trainee is an entry-level position focused on learning and supporting ongoing projects, while a Civil Engineer is a fully qualified professional responsible for project execution and decision-making in the civil engineering industry.

Can I get a civil engineering job with no experience?

Entry-level civil engineering trainee positions often do not require prior experience and focus on basic knowledge of engineering principles, CAD software, and relevant certifications. Internships or related coursework can improve chances, but some companies hire recent graduates or those with minimal experience for training roles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Civil Engineering Trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civil Engineering Trainee, you need a solid grasp of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or enrollment in a civil engineering program. Familiarity with technical tools like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and structural analysis software, as well as safety certifications, is commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication distinguish those who excel in the role. These skills ensure that trainees can contribute effectively to projects, learn quickly on the job, and uphold safety and quality standards in engineering environments.

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

Civil engineering trainees typically do not earn $500,000 annually, as entry-level salaries are much lower. Experienced civil engineers working in high-paying sectors or with advanced certifications can reach six-figure incomes, but earning $500,000 usually requires senior roles, project management, or consulting positions with significant responsibilities. Salary potential depends on location, specialization, experience, and industry demand.
More about Civil Engineering Trainee jobs
What cities are hiring for Civil Engineering Trainee jobs? Cities with the most Civil Engineering Trainee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineering jobs? The most popular types of Civil Engineering jobs are:
What states have the most Civil Engineering Trainee jobs? States with the most job openings for Civil Engineering Trainee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Civil Engineering Trainee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,360 per year, or $34.3 per hour.
Civil Engineer (Hydraulic)

Civil Engineer (Hydraulic)

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Harrisburg, PA โ€ข Hybrid

$69K - $90K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

THE POSITION Are you ready to use your engineering skills to strengthen Pennsylvania's parks and forests. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) has an exciting opportunity for a Civil Engineer (Hydraulic) to help shape safe and sustainable structures that support outdoor recreation across the Commonwealth. Here, you will gain hands-on experience with inspections, engineering design, and field evaluations.

Apply today to bring your technical skills to a team committed to protecting natural resources and enhancing public recreation. DESCRIPTION OF WORK This position supports engineering design, construction, and inspection work for dams and other civil engineering projects across Pennsylvania's state parks and forests. Your primary responsibilities will entail assisting senior engineers, preparing various technical documents, and gathering field data that guides project planning and improvement.

As a Civil Engineer, you will perform the following duties: Project Design: Assist with engineering design work for dams, marinas, streambank protection, and other structures Technical Plans: Prepare drawings, specifications, and cost estimates using Civil 3D and site investigation data Safety Inspections: Support dam inspections and help identify needed structural or safety repairs Consultant Review: Examine consultant proposals and project submissions for accuracy and feasibility Field Measurement: Visit project sites to gather measurements, assess conditions, and collect engineering data Permit Preparation: Prepare documentation needed for local, state, and federal permits for construction or modification of structures Interested in learning more. Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description. Work Schedule and Additional Information: Full-time employment Work hours are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 60-minute lunch.

Travel is required, including occasional overnight travel. Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time, up to 5 days per pay period. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania.

If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.

Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable. You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS Minimum Experience and Training Requirements: Successful completion of the Civil Engineer Trainee training program (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or Four years of civil engineering experience in the appropriate specialty, and an engineer-in-training certificate issued by or acceptable to the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists, and an associate's degree in civil engineering technology or a closely related engineering discipline; or Five years of civil engineering experience in the appropriate specialty, and an Engineer-in-Training certificate issued by or acceptable to the Pennsylvania State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists; or One year of civil engineering experience in the appropriate specialty, and a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Special Requirement: This position requires possession of a valid driver's license. Other Requirements: PA residency requirement is currently waived for this title.

You must be able to perform essential job functions. How to Apply: Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education)

If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date.

Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted. Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position. All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work.

Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

Veterans: Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. 7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs

To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals). If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law.

All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. EXAMINATION INFORMATION Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).

Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions. Your score is valid for this specific posting only. You must provide complete and accurate information or: your score may be lower than deserved.

you may be disqualified. You may only apply/test once for this posting. Your results will be provided via email.


Commonwealth of Pennsylvania logo

About Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is not a traditional company but rather a state government entity headquartered in Middletown, Pennsylvania, United States. Through its official website pa.gov, the government provides a broad range of services to its residents, including but not limited to, health services, education, transportation, and regulatory functions. Founded in 1787, the Commonwealth holds a rich history dating back to the foundation of the United States itself. The government's core mission is to serve and improve the lives of Pennsylvanians, fostering a more prosperous, informed, and secure state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Harrisburg, PA, US

Year founded

1787