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Civil Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

W3Global Inc.

Civil Engineering

South Lake Tahoe, CA

$96K - $120K/yr

Our client is seeking a Mid-Level Ecological Restoration Design or Stormwater / Green Infrastructure Engineer to support ecological restoration, stormwater management, and civil engineering projects.

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All JobsCivil Engineering JobsCivil Engineering Jobs in California

Civil Engineering information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$81.6K

$121.4K

How much do civil engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineering in California is $81,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kinds of jobs do civil engineers get?

Civil engineers work in designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, dams, and airports. They often work in consulting firms, construction companies, government agencies, or as project managers, utilizing skills in surveying, design software, and project planning.

What can you do with a civil engineering job?

A civil engineering job involves designing, constructing, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. Civil engineers use technical skills, project management, and knowledge of materials and safety standards to complete projects efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Civil Engineering vs Structural Engineering?

AspectCivil EngineeringStructural Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil or Structural Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, urban planning, infrastructure projectsDesign offices, construction sites, focus on structural safety
Industry UsageBroadly used in transportation, water resources, urban developmentSpecialized in designing and analyzing structures like buildings and bridges

While civil engineers oversee a wide range of infrastructure projects, structural engineers focus specifically on the safety and stability of structures. Civil engineering provides a broader scope, whereas structural engineering is a specialized subset within civil engineering, often requiring similar credentials and working in overlapping environments.

How to Get a Civil Engineering Job

To land your first civil engineering job, you need is a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. If you want to go for more in-depth studies, you can pursue a master’s degree, but you still need to gain experience. You can do this via an internship or an assistant position. This is a great time to focus in on the type of projects you want to design and build. Following graduation, you need to take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and the Principles and Practices of Engineering exam. After this, you can start working as a civil engineer. Joining the American Society of Civil Engineers is a good career move, as they can help you network, guide you to training resources, and point you to relevant job listings.

What type of work do civil engineers do?

Civil engineers design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, dams, and buildings. They analyze survey reports, develop project plans, and oversee construction to ensure safety and compliance with regulations, often using tools like CAD software and requiring relevant licensure.

What careers come from civil engineering?

Civil engineering graduates can pursue careers such as structural engineer, transportation engineer, environmental engineer, construction manager, geotechnical engineer, and urban planner. These roles involve designing, building, and maintaining infrastructure like bridges, roads, buildings, and water systems, often requiring knowledge of design software and engineering principles.

What do civil engineers do?

Civil engineers design, build, supervise, operate, and maintain infrastructure projects and systems such as roads, bridges, airports, dams, and water supply systems. Their work involves planning, analysis, and overseeing construction to ensure that structures are safe, sustainable, and meet regulatory standards. Civil engineers often collaborate with architects, construction managers, and government officials to deliver projects that serve communities and support economic development.

What types of projects and team collaborations can a civil engineer expect to be involved with in a typical role?

Civil engineers often work on a wide range of projects, including infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. Collaboration is a key part of the role, as civil engineers frequently coordinate with architects, construction managers, surveyors, and government officials to ensure project success. They participate in both office-based planning and on-site supervision, balancing technical design work with field assessments. This variety provides valuable experience and opportunities for career growth, especially as projects increase in complexity and scale.

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

To thrive as a Civil Engineer, you need a solid foundation in mathematics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil engineering and Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, project management tools, and structural analysis programs is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and teamwork help civil engineers effectively manage projects and collaborate with diverse stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for designing safe, efficient infrastructure and ensuring projects meet regulatory standards and client expectations.
More about Civil Engineering jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineering jobs in California? The most popular types of Civil Engineering jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineering jobs in California? For Civil Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Civil Engineering jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Civil Engineering jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Civil Engineering jobs? Cities in California with the most Civil Engineering job openings:
Civil Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Engineering job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 79% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,591 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Civil Engineering Project Manager

Civil Engineering Project Manager

PacRim Engineering Inc

Orange, CA • On-site

$123K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Competitive salary
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

PacRim Engineering is a leading engineering consulting firm that offers its clients exceptional, innovative, professional engineering consulting services. Its market segment focus includes DOD and Federal Programs, Regional Transportation, Municipalities, Utility Agencies, Port Authorities, Rail and Transit, Educational Institutions, Medical Facilities, and Private Developers. PacRim’s experienced professionals work collaboratively to provide engineering services that include Civil, Water/Wastewater, Structural, and Construction Support. PacRim is keenly aware of the responsibilities its clients entrust to the firm and consistently demonstrates technical excellence, outstanding customer service, and the ability to deliver quality products. Please visit our website at www.pacrimengineering.com for more information.
We are currently looking to hire an experienced Civil Engineering Project Manager to join our team of managers, engineers, and designers, who represent the top talent in the industry.
Duties and responsibilities: 
The position performs general project management and civil engineering work under direct supervision of a Principal. 
The position will apply fundamental engineering training, knowledge, and experience to supervise design engineers to deliver all tasks for different project types including engineering studies and site investigation reports; land development designs; preparation of Basis of Design (BOD); preparation of fully designed plans, specifications, and estimates (PS&E), and other engineering reports, cost estimates, and construction support. Typical clients served include Municipalities, DoD agencies, private developers, and other public and private organizations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The main duties are as follows, but not limited to:
  • Leading project teams in the development of plans, specifications, and cost estimates
  • Managing communications with clients and teaming partner firms
  • Site Engineering Design associated with buildings and parking
  • Street improvement design
  • Pavement rehabilitation
  • Rough and precise grading plans
  • Storm design and drainage calculations
  • Potable and reclaimed waterlines design
  • Sewer pipe design
  • Flood control improvements
  • Freeway and interchange improvements
  • Specifications
  • Utility coordination
  • Permit processing
  • Construction support
  • Project planning and execution
  • Budget and schedules for projects
  • Financial success
  • Business development
  • Proposal preparation
Qualifications:
  • Knowledge of public works 
  • Skills in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Bluebeam
  • Excellent writing and communication skills
Education & Experiences:
  • A Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from an accredited college (ABET) is required.
  • Minimum of 10 years of civil engineering experience
  • PE license is a must (in California preferred) 
  • A Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering is a plus
Join us today! PacRim offers a comprehensive compensation package as follows:
  • Competitive salary
  • Performance bonus potential
  • Paid holidays
  • Personal Time Off (vacation & sick day)
  • Health insurance plans - medical, dental, and vision
  • 401(k) plan with employer contributions
Salary Range: $123,000-$170,000 
PacRim is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

Flexible work from home options available.