2

Entry Level Civil Engineer Jobs in Madera, CA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Civil Engineer information

See Madera, CA salary details

$41.5K

$75.3K

$123.8K

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

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil engineer in Madera, CA is $75,260.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,200.00 and $90,600.00 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 Madera, CA?

The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Madera, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Madera, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs in Madera, CA are:

What cities near Madera, CA are hiring for Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs?

Cities near Madera, CA with the most Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings in Madera, CA 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 $75,260 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Entry Level Staff Engineer-Fresno CA

Certerra Southwest

Fresno, CA • On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform field inspections and testing of construction materials to ensure compliance with client specifications.

  • Prepare daily reports on observation activities and review test data for accuracy and completeness.

  • Assist with proposal scoping, estimating, project tracking, and mentoring junior staff as needed.


Job description

COMPANY OVERVIEW:

Certerra is a growing national provider of testing, inspection, and certification services that support innovation in new product development, quality assurance, for project delivery, and engineered solutions for asset management. We are passionate about contributing to the sustainable development of the communities we serve. We are a national firm with a global reach serving national and international clients from 30+ offices located in 10 states and are ranked on ENR’s Top 500 list alongside the nation’s top firms. With a 60-year history, Certerra has a passion for high-end services, constant innovation, and investment in the development of world-class laboratory facilities, and interactive management technologies. Each member of our staff is committed to service, innovation, and the success of our clients.

Certerra is a consulting firm with over 65 years of quality service that offers professional services in the southwestern United States in the fields of geotechnical engineering, environmental engineering, construction materials engineering and testing, nondestructive testing, and welding inspection.

Job Summary:

We have a full-time opportunity for an Entry level Staff Engineer with the career path of Project Manager. Candidate will work on public and private complex projects within the inspections and testing of construction materials in the field also know called quality control. These opportunities are in our office in Fresno. CA ( Certerra/Southwest Division).


Responsibilities

  • Work with project designers and clients to ensure that client specifications are followed.
  • Knowledge of routine - to complex inspections and testing of construction materials in the field.
  • Prepare daily reports on observation activities.
  • Geotechnical lab and field testing 
  • Review observation and test data for accuracy and completeness
  • Assist with proposal scoping, estimating and preparation.
  • Track project budgets and prepare invoicing.
  • Assist with training, supervision, and mentoring of junior staff as needed.
  • Perform field inspections and testing as needed. 

Education, Experience and Skills

Required:

  • 4-year Civil Engineering degree, required.
  • A valid driver's license and a clean driving history, required.
  • High school diploma or equivalent, required.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail, required.
  • Strong organization and planning skills required.
  • Comfortable with MS Office including Word, Excel, Outlook, and OneDrive, required.

Preferred:

  • Knowledge of construction materials testing and observation experience, preferred.
  • Ability to read and comprehend plans and specifications, preferred.
  • Experience with performing IBC Special Inspections, preferred.
  • Experience ranging from small to large complex construction and/or heavy highway projects, preferred.
  • EIT level accreditation preferred 

Physical Demands:

Physical examination required to obtain medical clearance to work, Report from Medical Professional.

Ability to stoop, kneel and to routinely lift and carry 30 pounds

Clean driving record and capable of being insured for driving company vehicles

Clovis Tulare Selma Madera Chowchilla Fowler

 We are an Equal Opportunity Employer:

 This Company is dedicated to both the letter and the spirit of the equal opportunity employment laws. All applicants and all employees will be evaluated on the basis of their ability, competence, and performance of the essential functions of their positions. There will be no discrimination on the basis of race, sex, national origin, religion, age 40 and over, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other classification which may be protected by federal, state, or local laws. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, we specifically offer equal opportunity for all employees or job applicants who may have a physical or mental disability. Such persons will be hired on the basis of their ability to perform the essential functions of the job in question. Likewise, their work will be evaluated on their performance of these essential functions. We will offer reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities, to the extent that Company resources allow without undue hardship. As part of our equal employment policy, there will be no wage differentials based on gender, between men and women employed in the same establishment, on jobs that require equal skill, effort, and responsibility, and which are performed under similar working conditions