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Civil Structural Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Civil/Structural Engineering About Us: Client is a leading engineering consulting firm delivering innovative and professional services across diverse sectors, including DOD and Federal Programs ...

Bachelor's Degree (ABET accredited) in Civil/Structural or Architectural/Structural Engineering. * Master's Degree in Civil/Structural or Architectural/Structural Engineering. Preferred ...

Position Overview Power your future with Qualus as a Civil/Structural Engineer on our Transmission Design Engineering team. If you're ready to build expertise, make real impact, and start a career ...

Position Overview Power your future with Qualus as a Civil/Structural Engineer on our Transmission Design Engineering team. If you're ready to build expertise, make real impact, and start a career ...

Structural Engineer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$93K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural/Architectural Engineering; Master's degree preferred. * 5+ years of building related structural engineering experience, including the design of concrete, masonry ...

Entry-Level Civil / Structural Project Manager 📍 Irvine, California 🕒 Full-Time | Onsite 🎓 Entry-Level / Recent Graduate Opportunity Are you a recent Civil or Structural Engineering graduate ...

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Showing results 1-20

Civil Structural Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$100.9K

$162.3K

How much do civil structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil structural engineer in California is $100,940.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $123,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Civil Structural Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectCivil Structural EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license, structural certificationsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license (optional)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and inspecting structures like buildings and bridgesBroader projects including transportation, water resources, and infrastructure
Industry UsageSpecialized in structural safety and integrityGeneral civil engineering projects across multiple sectors

While both roles require a civil engineering background and licensure, Civil Structural Engineers focus specifically on the design and safety of structures like buildings and bridges. Civil Engineers have a broader scope, working on various infrastructure projects. The choice depends on your interest in structural design versus general civil engineering work.

Can you make 300k a year as an engineer?

Civil structural engineers can potentially earn $300,000 or more annually with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-paying industries or locations. Such salaries are typically achieved through senior roles, project management, or consulting positions that require specialized skills and a strong professional reputation.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced civil structural engineers working in senior roles, consulting, or in specialized industries such as oil and gas or aerospace can earn $500,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires advanced certifications, extensive experience, and often leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

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

Senior civil structural engineers with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand regions or large projects. However, typical salaries for most civil engineers range from $60,000 to $120,000, with higher earnings usually associated with managerial positions, specialized skills, or consulting work.

What do structural and civil engineers do?

Structural and civil engineers design, analyze, and oversee the construction of infrastructure such as buildings, bridges, roads, and dams. They ensure safety, compliance with codes, and use tools like CAD software, often working on projects from conception to completion while holding relevant engineering licenses. Their work involves technical calculations, site inspections, and collaboration with architects and contractors.

What are Civil Structural Engineers?

Civil Structural Engineers are professionals who design, analyze, and oversee the construction of structures such as buildings, bridges, and towers to ensure they are safe, stable, and able to withstand various loads and environmental conditions. They use principles of physics, mathematics, and material science to evaluate how structures will perform under stress and during their intended use. Their work is crucial in both new construction and the assessment or retrofitting of existing structures.

What are some typical challenges Civil Structural Engineers face when coordinating with multidisciplinary teams on large projects?

Civil Structural Engineers often collaborate with architects, mechanical, and electrical engineers to ensure their designs integrate seamlessly with other systems. Challenges can include reconciling conflicting design requirements, managing changes in project scope, and maintaining clear communication across disciplines. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong project management skills and the ability to adapt to evolving project needs while maintaining structural integrity and safety. Being proactive in meetings and documentation helps prevent misunderstandings and keeps complex projects on track.

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

To thrive as a Civil Structural Engineer, you need a strong background in structural analysis, design principles, and materials science, usually supported by a degree in civil engineering and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like AutoCAD, SAP2000, ETABS, and building codes is essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These competencies ensure the safety, efficiency, and compliance of structures, which are critical for public safety and project success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Structural Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Civil Structural Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Civil Structural Engineer jobs in California? For Civil Structural Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in California are hiring for Civil Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Civil Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Civil Structural Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,940 per year, or $48.5 per hour.
Civil/Structural Engineer (Ph.D.)

Civil/Structural Engineer (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.

Menlo Park, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Posted yesterday


Job description

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 

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


  • Inspection, analysis and determination of causes of structural performance failures
  • Conducting analytical and computer problem solving
  • Performing field investigations and diagnostic surveys
  • Preparing technical reports and presentations
  • Continued professional development towards establishing professional expertise

  • Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a Structural Engineering focus, or a related field
  • P.E. or S.E. license or the ability to become licensed within two years in the State of California
  • Presently legally authorized to work in the United States. No immigration sponsorship or processing required.
  • Excellent creative problem-solving ability
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently as well as lead and work in multi-disciplinary teams
  • Ability to gather information from and convey technical conclusions to individuals in engineering, business, and industry

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]. 


To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:
https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
https://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. 


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


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 Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, annual bonus and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

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


USD $117,000.00 - USD $145,000.00 /Yr.

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. 


US-CA-Menlo Park