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Entry Level Civil Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island (NOW HIRING)

Trilon

Entry Level Wastewater Engineer

Providence, RI · On-site

This isn't a "watch and wait" entry-level role: you'll be working directly on design, analysis ... Bachelor's (or graduate) degree in Environmental or Civil Engineering * Coursework or internship ...

VHB

Transmission Line Engineer - Senior

Providence, RI · On-site

$120K - $181K/yr

VHB is looking to add a Civil/Structural/Electrical Engineer with transmission line design ... Provide mentorship and training to entry level and junior engineering personnel. Skills and ...

All JobsCivil Engineer JobsEntry Level Civil Engineer JobsEntry Level Civil Engineer Jobs in Rhode Island

Entry Level Civil Engineer information

See Rhode Island salary details

$39.7K

$72K

$118.5K

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

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil engineer in Rhode Island is $72,007.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,900.00 and $86,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Entry-level civil engineers typically earn salaries well below $500,000 annually. High earnings in civil engineering are usually associated with senior positions, specialized skills, project management, or working in high-demand sectors and locations. Achieving a $500,000 salary generally requires many years of experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles.

Is AI replacing civil engineers?

AI is not replacing civil engineers but is increasingly used to assist with tasks such as data analysis, design optimization, and project management. Civil engineers still require skills in planning, problem-solving, and oversight, which AI tools support rather than replace. Developing proficiency in software and technology is important for future job performance in the field.

What does an entry level civil engineer do?

An entry level civil engineer assists in the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping with drafting, site inspections, data collection, and project documentation. Entry level civil engineers also use computer-aided design (CAD) software, conduct basic calculations, and ensure that projects comply with safety and environmental regulations. Their role is essential in gaining practical experience and learning industry standards.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Civil Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, strong analytical skills, and foundational knowledge of engineering principles. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, civil engineering modeling tools, and basic project management systems is typically required. Effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for accurately designing infrastructure, collaborating with diverse project teams, and ensuring projects are completed safely and efficiently.

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

AspectEntry Level Civil EngineerCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical diploma in civil engineering technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, project management, site supervisionAssisting engineers with surveying, drafting, and data collection
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, government agenciesConstruction firms, consulting firms, public works departments

Entry Level Civil Engineers typically hold a bachelor's degree and focus on design, planning, and project management, while Civil Engineering Technicians usually have an associate degree and support engineers with technical tasks like surveying and drafting. Both roles are essential in civil projects but differ in education requirements and daily responsibilities.

How to become a civil engineer with no experience?

To become an entry-level civil engineer with no experience, pursue a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field, and gain practical skills through internships or co-op programs. Developing proficiency in engineering software like AutoCAD and understanding construction principles can improve job prospects; obtaining a Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam certification is also beneficial.

What is an entry-level civil engineer?

An entry-level civil engineer is a professional who has recently started their career in civil engineering, typically holding a bachelor's degree in the field. They assist with designing, planning, and overseeing construction projects, often working under supervision and using tools like AutoCAD. This role provides foundational experience for advancing to more senior positions.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an Entry Level Civil Engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As an Entry Level Civil Engineer, you will typically assist with tasks such as drafting design plans, preparing reports, conducting field inspections, and supporting senior engineers on larger projects. Early on, you may work on site development, transportation, or water resources projects, helping with data collection, calculations, and creating construction documents. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including surveyors, architects, and contractors—is common, and you’ll likely be mentored by experienced engineers to build your technical and project management skills. This exposure provides a solid foundation for career growth and deeper involvement in project coordination over time.

What Does an Entry-Level Civil Engineer Do?

An entry-level civil engineer performs a variety of duties related to designing and constructing infrastructure or public works systems, such as public buildings, highways, bridges, sewer systems, dams, viaducts, and other large structures. As an entry-level engineer, you help draft blueprints, take surveys of building sites, perform risk analysis, map projects, and perform research into public records and other documents pertaining to the project. You may also help draw up budgets and assess the costs of projects. You typically work under the supervision of lead engineers and project managers.

More about Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs in Rhode Island? The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Rhode Island? For Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Rhode Island look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Rhode Island are:
What cities in Rhode Island are hiring for Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs? Cities in Rhode Island with the most Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in RI? For Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in RI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings in Rhode Island as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,007 per year, or $34.6 per hour.
Entry-Level Civil Engineer (50706)

Entry-Level Civil Engineer (50706)

Collins Engineers, Inc

East Greenwich, RI

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Collins is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm. We have opportunities for you.

Collins Engineers, Inc., an ENR Top 500 Design Firm providing inspection and design to the transportation, marine, construction, and site/civil contract services, is seeking a self-motivated Structural Entry-Level Engineer to be an integral part of our team in our East Greenwich, RI. This candidate will have the opportunity to work on sign structure inspections as well as bridge inspections. The Entry-Level Engineer performs assignments designed to develop professional work knowledge and abilities, requiring application of standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria.   

Typical Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Performs design and inspection/field work that does not require previous experience. 
  • Assists in the completion of inspection and assessment reports. 

  • Support data collection, modeling, and load rating analyses to assess structural performance and maintain compliance with safety standards.

  • Prepares design computations and quantity estimates. 
  • Keeps project managers informed of workload and any changes to project scope or additional services. 
  • Uses computer-assisted engineering and design software and equipment to prepare calculation packages and design drawings. Is active in technical societies.
  • Is able to attend meetings or events outside of normal working hours. 
  • Has limited communication with clients. 
  • Instructs draftspersons/technicians on design drawings, data entry, and report preparation.
  • Actively observes and acts in an appropriate manner related to safety. 

Education and/or Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from an accredited four-year university plus appropriate continuing education and 0-4 years of experience.  
  • Engineer-In-Training (E.I.T.) or ability to obtain within one year.

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