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Entry Level Civil Engineer Jobs in Kalispell, MT

Entry Level Civil Engineer information

See Kalispell, MT salary details

$40K

$72.6K

$119.5K

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

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil engineer in Kalispell, MT is $72,634.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $87,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 an entry level civil engineer with no experience?

To become an entry-level civil engineer with no experience, obtain a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field, and develop skills in design software like AutoCAD and project management. Internships or cooperative education programs can provide practical experience and improve employability. Earning a Professional Engineer (PE) license is not required initially but can enhance career prospects later.

What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT?

The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Kalispell, MT are:

What cities near Kalispell, MT are hiring for Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs?

Cities near Kalispell, MT with the most Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings in Kalispell, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,634 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Civil Engineering Specialist - Field

Kalispell, MT • On-site


State of Montana
Public Administration • 11 - 50 employees

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 50 rated states

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting a Civil Engineering Specialist in Kalispell. This position is responsible for conducting in-depth engineering and analysis, administering contracts, overseeing projects, and project design, and may serve as a lead worker. Work is assigned through instruction on specific engineering objectives and direction and the incumbent determines the best solution based on established engineering guidelines, knowledge, and skills. Completed work is reviewed for application of sound professional judgment. The position reports to the Engineering Project Manager. This position is part of a career ladder with career advancement opportunities.

For a full job description, please contact Lauren Grayson at lgrayson@mt.gov.

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:
    Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
    Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    Access to Montana Health Centers, low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
    State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
    Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
    Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
    Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
    Benefits apply on first day of employment
    Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer

For information on the Montana Department of Transportation's mission, vision, and values, please visit our website: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/about.aspx#values


Required Application Materials:
    A resume and online application detailing your qualifications and work history.

Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as "Relevant."

If you need an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR representative listed above.

Required Education and Experience:
All levels require a combination of education and experience equivalent to Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or a closely related field of study. (Related degrees may include Environmental Engineering, Geologic/Geotechnical Engineering, Materials Engineer, Mechanical Engineering, or Engineering Science)

Entry Level - Civil Engineering Specialist level 1 
Prior work experience is not required for entry level.

Mid-Level - Civil Engineering Specialist level 2 
This position also requires a minimum of 6 months to 2 years of engineering or directly related work experience.

Certifications, licensure, or other credentials include: Proof of passage of the Fundamental Engineering Exam (FE).

Top Level - Civil Engineering Specialist level 3 
This position also requires a minimum of 2 years to 4 years of engineering or directly related work experience.

Certifications, licensure, or other credentials include: Top level Engineers are required to have an Proof of passage of the Fundamental Engineering Exam (FE), Engineering Intern Certification (EIT), or licensed Professional Engineer.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Develops sufficient engineering knowledge, skill and judgment in a specific practice area to perform the routine engineering tasks in the assigned area. Although the knowledge acquired is in a specific work area, that knowledge and competence should reasonably transfer to other work areas at the same level.
  • Broad knowledge of engineering practices and principles and construction methods, processes and procedures, computer-assisted drafting and design software, and engineering techniques are required for projects of moderate complexity. A journey level knowledge of federal guidelines and procedures regarding road design and construction is also required.
  • Possesses effective oral and written communication skills in order to assist with client, customer, or official contacts and communication pertaining to specific assignment or meetings.

Other Information:

Driver's record will be verified. Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicant's permanent driving records. Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201, "State Vehicle Use," and MDT Policy #6.03.001, "State Vehicle Use Policy" are conditions of employment. 
This position is being posted in accordance with the MFPE bargaining unit agreement. Non-bargaining unit employees or employees of another bargaining unit may apply. If the position is not filled with a bargaining unit applicant, the non-bargaining unit applicants may be considered. However, bargaining unit applicants will have preference.

The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, at 406.444.6054.

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes, and to achieving an injury-free workplace.



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