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Entry Level Civil Designer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer (Civil)

Battle Ground, WA ยท On-site

$23.23 - $34.84/hr

This entry-level role is designed to actively impact project performance and field operations, going beyond administrative assistance to contribute to project planning, cost control, and operational ...

... civil engineering, or structural engineering. This General Application is designed for entry-level associates who may not see an active posting in their preferred location but want to be considered ...

... civil engineering, or structural engineering. This General Application is designed for entry-level associates who may not see an active posting in their preferred location but want to be considered ...

WSP is currently initiating a search for an Entry Level Structural Engineer for our Lake Oswego ... Be involved in projects with our Pacific Civil/Structural Substation team and be a part of a ...

WSP is currently initiating a search for an Entry Level Structural Engineer for our Lake Oswego ... Be involved in projects with our Pacific Civil/Structural Substation team and be a part of a ...

HDR is looking for a Structural PE (entry-level) to support our growing Building Engineering ... Bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or BS degree in Architectural Engineering;

HDR is looking for a Structural PE (entry-level) to support our growing Building Engineering ... Bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or BS degree in Architectural Engineering;

HDR is looking for a Structural PE (entry-level) to support our growing Building Engineering ... Bachelor's degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or BS degree in Architectural Engineering;

Responsibilities involve generating CADD designs on various assigned projects of moderate- to ... Provide guidance and training to entry-level drafting and design support staff. * Remain current in ...

Responsibilities involve generating CADD designs on various assigned projects of moderate- to ... Provide guidance and training to entry-level drafting and design support staff. * Remain current in ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Civil Designer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$45.6K

$86.3K

$124.1K

How much do entry level civil designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil designer in Portland, OR is $86,322.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,600.00 and $99,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level civil designer do?

An Entry Level Civil Designer assists in the creation and modification of engineering drawings and plans for civil infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and utilities. They typically use computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce detailed drawings based on specifications from engineers and project managers. Their tasks may also include collecting and analyzing data, preparing reports, and ensuring that designs comply with relevant codes and standards. Entry level designers work under the supervision of senior staff and help ensure projects are completed efficiently and accurately.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level civil designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Civil Designer, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, drafting, and a relevant degree or coursework in civil engineering or a related field. Familiarity with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, GIS software, and basic knowledge of design codes are typically required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork skills help you collaborate with engineers and meet client expectations. These abilities ensure accurate, efficient project deliverables and smooth integration within multidisciplinary design teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level civil designers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level civil designers often encounter challenges such as adapting to industry-standard design software, understanding detailed project requirements, and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the technical complexity and fast-paced deadlines. To overcome these challenges, new designers should actively seek feedback from senior colleagues, participate in training sessions, and maintain open communication with project managers and engineers. Building strong organizational and problem-solving skills early on can also help ease the transition and contribute to professional growth.

What is the difference between Entry Level Civil Designer vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectEntry Level Civil DesignerCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Civil Engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree in Civil Engineering Technology or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, field sites, consulting firmsDesign offices, construction sites, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, municipalities, private developersEngineering firms, public agencies, construction companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between an Entry Level Civil Designer and a Civil Engineering Technician lies in their educational background and focus. Civil Designers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on creating detailed designs and plans, while Civil Engineering Technicians usually have an associate's degree and assist with technical tasks and data collection. Both roles work in similar environments and industries, but the Civil Designer often takes on more design responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Civil Designer jobs in Portland, OR?

For Entry Level Civil Designer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Civil Designer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,322 per year, or $41.5 per hour.

Civil Designer - Entry-Level*FUTURE OPPORTUNITY*

KPFF Consulting Engineers

Portland, OR โ€ข Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Company Description

KPFF, a multi-office, multi-discipline engineering firm, champions Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion. With over 60 years of experience, we foster a dynamic environment for creative solutions across diverse projects and scales. Our decentralized structure empowers our 1,300 team members in 27 nationwide offices, offering abundant flexibility and growth opportunities. Rooted in Seattle since 1960, KPFF excels as a collaborative team of consulting professionals driving innovative solutions and sustainable design. Join us to shape the built environment and drive impactful engineering solutions with your creativity and passion.

We work on a wide variety of project types, serving public and private clients in land development, transportation and municipal projects. We believe in encouraging personal and professional growth, and we work hard to provide a solid structure with minimal organizational restrictions.

With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF's decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more atย www.kpff.com.

Job Description

If you would like to be considered for anย Entry-Level Civil Designerย position in the near futureย in ourย Portland, ORย office, apply now and your resume/application will remain in our database for future consideration. A successful candidate will be an initiative-taking individual that is interested in working in KPFF's unique entrepreneurial environment, is looking for an opportunity to work on a variety of project types and wants to be challenged to stretch outside their comfort zone. At KPFF, we don't believe in pigeon-holing or positions that constrain you within a strict, defined box - we believe that engineers should be able to practice with a minimum of organizational restriction. Based on this philosophy, our employees experience the opportunity for growth that is based on their own competency, passion, and commitment.

We are passionate about developing great engineers! We'll provide a supportive and positive environment to start your engineering career. We offer generous benefits, a competitive salary and pay you for every hour you work.

Qualifications
  • BSCE
  • EIT certification (preferred)
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • AutoCAD/Civil 3D experience is highly desirable
  • Strong work ethic and desire to learn
  • Work Authorization/Sponsorship -ย At this time, KPFF is unable to provide visa sponsorship or transfer for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.
Additional Information

Compensation
The base pay for this role is competitive, determined by experience, education, and skills. KPFF also offers performance-based bonuses to recognize outstanding contributions. Additional details about the full compensation package will be provided during the interview process.

Culture and Benefits
At KPFF, we offer a rewarding career path that emphasizes autonomy, innovation, and professional development. Our culture prioritizes employee ownership, teamwork, and shared values, creating an environment where contributions are celebrated, and career growth is encouraged. We aren't just colleagues; we're a community dedicated to collaborative innovation, providing you the platform to make a lasting impact on meaningful projects.

KPFF Employee Benefits

  • Medical Plan Options: Choice of Traditional PPO or HDHP with HSA, covering preventive care and prescriptions.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
  • Dental & Vision: Full preventive care, plus coverage for major dental services and vision allowances.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for personal, family, and work challenges.
  • Life & AD&D Insurance: Company-provided life insurance equal to one year's salary, plus AD&D.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan: KPFF contributes 3% of salary, with no match needed.ย 
  • Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term coverage at 60% income, fully covered by KPFF.
  • Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, two floating holidays, and paid company holidays.
  • Paid Family Leave: Six weeks at 60% pay, with options to use PTO for full income.

Additional Perks

  • Professional Development:ย Individual development budget, weekly lunch-and-learns, and monthly social events.
  • Hybrid Work Schedule:ย Options for hybrid work arrangements based on project and office needs.
  • Monthly technical educational sessionsย 
  • Mentorship program
  • Monthly social events
  • Winter parties and summer picnics
  • Office committee opportunitiesย 
  • Community projects participationย 
  • Offsite retreatsย  ย ย 

Note: Each office may personalize benefits to include additional perks specific to their location.

KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.