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Coastal Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Senior Bridge Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$89K - $121K/yr

Position Overview Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer with specialized ... coastal projects . Today, our teams lead projects that define skylines, coastlines, and ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

Position Overview Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer with specialized ... coastal projects . Today, our teams lead projects that define skylines, coastlines, and ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

Position Overview Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer with specialized ... coastal projects . Today, our teams lead projects that define skylines, coastlines, and ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

Position Overview Thompson Engineering is seeking a Senior Structural Engineer with specialized ... coastal projects . Today, our teams lead projects that define skylines, coastlines, and ...

Graduate programs are offered with specialties in Computing, AI and Systems, Construction Engineering, Water Resources, Coastal and Environmental Engineering, Structural Engineering and Mechanics ...

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Showing results 1-20

Coastal Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$35.5K

$104.3K

$133.7K

How much do coastal engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for coastal engineer in Raleigh, NC is $104,286.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,000.00 and $132,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Coastal Engineer?

A Coastal Engineer’s daily responsibilities often include analyzing coastal erosion and flood risks, conducting site assessments, and designing structures like seawalls or breakwaters to protect shorelines. You may also work with computer models to simulate wave patterns and predict environmental impacts, as well as preparing reports and permitting documents. Regular collaboration with project managers, environmental scientists, government agencies, and local communities is a key aspect of the job. This role is a balance between fieldwork, design work in the office, and client or stakeholder meetings, offering a dynamic and varied workday.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior roles in software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often including bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What jobs can you get with a coastal engineering degree?

A coastal engineering degree prepares individuals for roles such as coastal engineer, oceanographer, environmental consultant, or flood risk analyst. These jobs typically involve designing shoreline protection structures, conducting environmental impact assessments, and using tools like GIS and modeling software. Employment can be found in government agencies, consulting firms, and research institutions.

Are coastal engineers in demand?

Coastal engineers are in demand due to increasing concerns about climate change, sea level rise, and coastal erosion, which drive infrastructure projects and environmental protection efforts. The field offers opportunities in government agencies, consulting firms, and research institutions, often requiring knowledge of hydrodynamics, GIS tools, and relevant certifications. Employment prospects are generally strong in regions with vulnerable coastlines and ongoing development needs.

What does a Coastal Engineer do?

A Coastal Engineer designs, constructs, and maintains structures and systems that protect coastal environments from erosion, flooding, and other environmental impacts. They analyze wave dynamics, sediment transport, and shoreline stability to develop solutions for coastal resilience. Their work often includes seawalls, breakwaters, beach nourishment projects, and harbor design to mitigate the effects of climate change and rising sea levels.

What does a Coastal Engineer do?

A Coastal Engineer designs, plans, and manages projects related to shoreline protection, erosion control, and coastal infrastructure. They analyze environmental conditions, use modeling tools, and often work with construction teams to develop sustainable solutions for coastal areas. Certification in engineering and knowledge of hydrodynamics are typically required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Coastal Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Coastal Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or environmental engineering principles, with strong competencies in coastal processes, hydrodynamics, and shoreline management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and licensure such as a Professional Engineer (PE) certification. Familiarity with modeling software (e.g., MIKE21, Delft3D), GIS, and coastal monitoring tools is critical for project analysis and design. Strong analytical thinking, communication, and teamwork skills help in effectively collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are essential to design safe, sustainable solutions that protect coastal environments and infrastructure.

What are popular job titles related to Coastal Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Coastal Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Coastal Engineer jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Coastal Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Coastal Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Contract. Highlights an 72% In-person, 14% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,286 per year, or $50.1 per hour.
Research Associate

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


North Carolina State University rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

455th of 612 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Information
Posting Number
PG194757EP
Internal Recruitment
No
Working Title
Research Associate
Anticipated Hiring Range
Commensurate with Experience ($55,000 - $60,000)
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8 am - 5 pm; with early mornings, evenings and weekends as research needs require
Job Location
Raleigh, NC (with frequent travel to field and research sites)
Department
Biological and Agricultural Engineering (BAE)
About the Department
The Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering (BAE) is jointly administered by the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) and the College of Engineering at NC State University. The department actively contributes to the academic, research, and extension missions of the University.
Wolfpack Perks and Benefits
As a Pack member, you belong here, and can enjoy exclusive perks designed to enhance your personal and professional well-being. As you consider this opportunity, we encourage you to review our Employee Value Propositionand learn more about what makes NC State the best place to learn and work for everyone.
What we offer:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Retirement Programs
  • Disability Plans
  • Life Insurance
  • Accident Plan
  • Paid Time Off and Other Leave Programs
  • 12 Holidays Each Year
  • Tuition and Academic Assistance
  • And so much more!

Attain Work-life balance with our Childcare benefits, Wellness & Recreation Membership, and Wellness Programs that aim to build a thriving wolfpack community.
Disclaimer: Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status. Eligibility and Employer Sponsored Plans can be found within each of the links offered.
Essential Job Duties
North Carolina's coastal communities face unprecedented challenges from rising sea levels and increasingly frequent storms, yet a severe lack of salinity and water level monitoring leaves communities and vital industries guessing about flooding and the hidden threat of saltwater intrusion. To close this information gap, we are launching "See Salt," a real-time coastal monitoring network. This initiative will unify seven existing UNC System monitoring efforts and deploy new water level and salinity sensors in critical blind spots, spanning open estuarine waters and urban storm drains to rural agricultural canals. This position is for a research associate who will support this project and its monitoring expansion efforts.
Responsibilities will include:
Aquatic Monitoring
  • Develop standard operating procedures for installation and maintenance of sensors installed in ranging environments, including open estuarine waters and canals, as well as data quality assurance and quality control.
  • Install, operate, troubleshoot, and maintain monitoring equipment, including routine calibration.
  • Communicate with equipment manufacturers for technical support and issue resolution.
  • Travel to various locations across coastal North Carolina for project-related activities; locations can include open water.
  • Collaborate with local partners on sensor operation.
  • Drive university vehicles as needed for fieldwork (valid driver's license required).

Data Management and Analysis
  • Assume responsibility for the custody, organization, and quality control of collected data.
  • Analyze trends in salinity data.

Scientific Communication
  • Collaborate with faculty, students, and research technicians across multiple UNC System institutions.
  • Support community engagement events and workshops.
  • Contribute to scientific presentations, manuscripts, and project reports.

Other Responsibilities
  • Other tasks and responsibilities may be assigned based on the needs of the organization and evolving priorities.

Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Biological and Agricultural Engineering Technology; Environmental Technology; Biological and Agricultural Engineering; Civil Engineering; Coastal Engineering; Marine Science; Environmental Science; or related discipline with at least 3 years of relevant professional experience, preferably as a Research Assistant, or a master's degree, with preference for a doctorate degree.

Other Required Qualifications
  • Experience in operating and troubleshooting environmental monitoring equipment.
  • Experience managing field projects.
  • Able to work independently on collection of data and organization of data, including identifying measurement error.
  • Strong communication skills for interaction with equipment manufacturers and collaborators.
  • Ability to drive in North Carolina for field work.
  • Organizational skills for project management and SOP documentation.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with water quality assessments.
  • Proficiency in a coding language like R or Python.
  • Experience with boat operation and trailering.

Required License(s) or Certification(s)
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • Valid NC driver's license within 60 days of hire.

Valid NC Driver's License required
Yes
Commercial Driver's License required
No
Recruitment Dates and Special Instructions
Job Open Date
07/15/2026
Anticipated Close Date
Open Until Filled
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please attach a Cover Letter, resume/CV, and contact information for three (3) professional references.
Position Details
Position Number
00112190
Position Type
EPS/SAAO
Full Time Equivalent (FTE) (1.0 = 40 hours/week)
1.0
Appointment
12 Month Recurring
Mandatory Designation - Adverse Weather
Non Mandatory - Adverse Weather
Mandatory Designation - Emergency Events
Mandatory - Medical Emergencies, Non Mandatory - Emergency Event
Department ID
118101 - Biological And Agricultural Engineering
EEO
NC State University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal opportunities for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, and veteran status. The University encourages all qualified applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities, to apply. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-513-0574 to speak with a representative of the Office of Equal Opportunity.
If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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About North Carolina State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

North Carolina State University (NCSU), located in Raleigh, NC, US, is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on research, academics, and public service. Established in 1887, NCSU operates in the education industry and endeavors to foster student success, and promote economic development by providing high-quality, affordable education, and conducting groundbreaking research across a variety of disciplines. With more than 100 majors, its academic offerings range from undergraduates to postgraduates along with doctoral studies - in various fields like engineering, natural resources, humanities, and social sciences. NCSU is firmly anchored on the core values of respect, responsibility, integrity, and innovation. Its mission is to create economic, societal, and intellectual prosperity for the people of North Carolina and the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1887