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

All JobsCivil Engineer JobsEntry Level Civil Engineer JobsEntry Level Civil Engineer Jobs in Ripon, CA

Entry Level Civil Engineer information

See Ripon, CA salary details

$43K

$78K

$128.4K

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

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil engineer in Ripon, CA is $78,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,200.00 and $93,900.00 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 cities near Ripon, CA are hiring for Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs? Cities near Ripon, CA with the most Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Civil Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Civil Engineer job openings in Ripon, CA 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 $78,038 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

ASSISTANT/ASSOCIATE/ASSOCIATE CIVIL ENGINEER

City of Manteca, CA

Manteca, CA • On-site

$102K - $188K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Salary : $102,476.16 - $188,556.48 Annually
Location : City of Manteca, Manteca, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 25-116
Department: ENGINEERING
Opening Date: 02/10/2026
POSITION DESCRIPTION
DEFINITION
Under immediate (Assistant Engineer) to general (Associate/Associate Civil Engineer) supervision, performs various professional field and office engineering work related to: the City's engineering, and capital improvement projects from initiation, design, funding, construction, and completion; land development including review of entitlements, improvement plans, agreements, and construction; encroachment and transportation permit review and approval; provides professional staff assistance to engineering management, other departments, and the public in areas of expertise; confers with developers, contractors, and representatives of other agencies regarding facility and infrastructure development; conducts a variety of studies and prepares and presents staff reports; and performs related duties as assigned.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives immediate (Assistant Engineer) or general (Associate/Associate Civil Engineer) supervision from assigned supervisory or management staff. Associate/Associate Civil Engineer may exercise direct supervision over subordinate staff.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Assistant Engineer: This is the entry-level classification in the professional Engineer series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents learn and perform routine professional and technical engineering work for City-wide systems, operations, practices, and procedures. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult. Close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the Associate Engineer level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised while in progress and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.
Associate Engineer: This is the journey-level classification in the professional Engineer series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Assistant Engineer level by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working fairly independently, and exercising good judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.
Associate Civil Engineer: This is an advanced journey-level classification in the professional Engineer series which requires incumbents to possess a Professional Engineer Registration in the State of California. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Associate Engineer level by the performance of complex engineering duties as assigned and may guide others. Positions at this level are expected to be able to accurately and concisely define a project scope, review and analyze project alternatives, and design project solutions with minimal instructions or assistance.
Positions in the Engineer class series are flexibly staffed. Positions at the Associate/Associate Civil Engineer level are normally filled by advancement from the Assistant Engineer level; progression to the Associate/Associate Civil Engineer level is dependent on (i) management affirmation that the position is performing the full range of duties assigned to the classification; (ii) satisfactory work performance; (iii) the incumbent meeting the minimum qualifications for the classification including any licenses and certifications; and (iv) management approval for progression to the Associate/Associate Civil Engineer level.
EXAMPLE OF DUTIES
REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES
Essential Duties:
Management may amend duties pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) so qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.
Positions at the Assistant Engineer level may perform some of these duties and responsibilities in a learning capacity.
  • Develops, plans, reviews, and coordinates an assigned area of public works engineering including management and oversight of design and construction for infrastructure improvement projects, the review and approval of development plans, and the issuance of permits including grading, encroachment, and transportation permits.
  • Develops, reviews, and processes plans and specifications for City capital improvement projects; interprets the application of design criteria; ensures compliance with professional and City standards and practices; coordinates reviews with other departments and agencies.
  • Coordinates the bidding process for assigned projects; develops, oversees, and participates in the assembly and preparation of a variety of bid documents including drawings, calculations, plan specifications, and support materials; ensures bid documents, notifications, awards, and related materials are distributed to appropriate contractors, outside agencies, and personnel according to established processes and timelines.
  • Develops, reviews, and prepares contract documents for consultant services and contractor bids; prepares Requests for Proposals and solicits responses; evaluates consultant proposal statements of qualification and contract specification compliance; administers and processes contract documents.
  • Performs engineering functions related to the maintenance and operation of engineering and construction projects; monitors and identifies system deficiencies, prepares technical reports addressing those deficiencies, and implements corrective action.
  • Communicates information and provides guidance to the public and other agencies regarding various engineering design elements and codes.
  • Performs engineering calculations and makes engineering decisions in coordination with City departments, funding agencies, regulatory bodies, and the general public.
  • Develops, prepares, and monitors detailed project budgets; reviews, tracks, and approves invoices from consultants and contractors.
  • Trains and provides work direction and guidance to assigned personnel including the review and oversight of work and workflow management; oversees budgets and schedules; provides technical consultation to City staff, administrators, and outside contractors.
  • Investigates and responds to complaints and inquiries from citizens, other departments, and outside agencies; recommends corrective actions to resolve issues.
  • Tracks, applies for reimbursements, and monitors grant funds; ensures project activities comply with funding requirements and approved budget expenditures.
  • Performs plan checks of development plans for consistency with City municipal code, standards, master plans and policies; assists in the preparation of and reviews conditions of approval; reviews and processes engineering permit applications.
  • Coordinates and communicates with developers, outside engineers, contractors, other department staff, and city inspection staff relative to development projects including preparation and review of various development related documents.
  • Monitors and keeps abreast of changes to standards, codes, and regulations relevant to City engineering projects.
  • Observes and complies with all City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS
TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS
QUALIFICATIONS
Positions at the Assistant Engineer level may exercise some of these knowledge and abilities statements in a learning capacity.
Knowledge of:
  • Principles, practices, procedures, and standards related to the City's public works, engineering infrastructure development and maintenance, and surveying functions.
  • All components and aspects of project delivery to either deliver projects or oversee consultant teams.
  • Design, layout, and construction practices for public improvements such as complex roads, bridges, drainage, grading, landscaping, and other facilities and structures.
  • Engineering plan types, review practices, and permit filing and approval procedures.??
  • Methods, materials, equipment, and techniques used in the construction of public works projects, including water and wastewater systems, storm water, street, and traffic systems design.??
  • Principles and practices of Capital Improvement Program budgeting, cost estimation, funding, project management, and grant and contract administration.??
  • Right-of-way acquisition and road abandonment procedures.
  • Practices of researching engineering and design issues, evaluating alternatives, making sound recommendations, and preparing and presenting effective staff reports.
  • City and mandated safety rules, regulations, and protocols.
  • Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and City staff.
  • The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
  • Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and programs, projects, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Ability to:
  • Design engineering plans and prepare specifications for flood control, drainage structures, water quality systems, sewer treatment facilities, roads, bridges, and/or other facilities and structures.
  • Perform detailed and precise non-licensed engineering work.
  • Prepare cost estimates for engineering projects.
  • Review engineering plans and specifications for flood control, drainage structures, water quality systems, sewer treatment facilities, roads, bridges, and/or other facilities and structures.
  • Apply principles of logic and scientific reasoning to develop and evaluate alternative courses of action and recommend appropriate solutions.
  • Quickly learn and apply various codes, laws, and ordinances.
  • Inspect construction projects for adherence to contracts and specifications.
  • Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy, procedural, and legal guidelines.
  • Independently organize work, set priorities, meet critical deadlines, and follow-up on assignments.
  • Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
  • Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
  • Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education and Experience:
Any combination of education and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Education:
  • Assistant Engineer/Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer: Equivalent to a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in civil engineering or a related engineering field.
Experience:
  • Assistant Engineer: No experience required.
  • Associate Engineer: Minimum of two (2) years of increasingly responsible professional civil engineering experience equivalent to the City's Assistant Engineer class or higher.
  • Associate Civil Engineer: Minimum of two (2) years of increasingly responsible professional engineering experience equivalent to the City's Associate Engineer class while holding a valid Professional Engineer Registration in the State of California.
Licenses and Certifications:
  • Assistant Engineer/Associate Engineer/Associate Civil Engineer:Possession of a valid California Driver's License, to be maintained throughout employment.
  • Associate Engineer: eligible for a 5% differential pay for possession of a valid Certificate of Registration as a Civil Engineer in California, which must be maintained to be eligible.
  • Associate Civil Engineer: Possession of a valid Certificate of Registration as a Civil Engineer in California, to be maintained throughout employment.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
When assigned to an office environment, must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone; ability to stand and walk between work areas may be required. Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment. Positions in this classification occasionally bend, stoop, kneel, reach, push, and pull drawers open and closed to retrieve and file information.
When assigned to field inspection, must possess mobility to work in changing site conditions; possess the strength, stamina, and mobility to perform light to medium physical work; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; to reach, twist, turn, kneel, and bend, to climb and descend ladders; and to operate a motor vehicle and visit various City sites; vision to inspect site conditions and work in progress. The job involves fieldwork requiring frequent walking in operational areas to identify problems or hazards, with exposure to hazardous materials in some site locations. Employees must possess the ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 50 pounds, in all cases with the use of proper equipment and/or assistance from other staff.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Employees work in an office environment with moderate noise levels, controlled temperature conditions, and no direct exposure to hazardous physical substances. Employees also work i

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