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Entry Level Civil Engineering Jobs in California

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Entry Level Civil Engineering information

See California salary details

$40K

$72.6K

$119.4K

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

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil engineering in California is $72,565.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $87,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level civil engineer?

Entry level civil engineers are recent graduates or individuals with minimal professional experience who support the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers, assisting with tasks like drafting plans, conducting site inspections, and performing calculations. Entry level civil engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that projects meet safety, environmental, and regulatory standards while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level civil engineer?

As an entry-level civil engineer, you can expect to be involved in a range of tasks such as assisting with site inspections, preparing drawings and reports, collecting and analyzing data, and supporting senior engineers with project planning. Typical projects may include transportation systems, water resources, environmental remediation, or structural designs. You'll often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including architects, surveyors, and construction managers, gaining exposure to the full project lifecycle. This hands-on experience helps build a strong foundation for future specialization and career advancement.

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, a solid understanding of engineering fundamentals, and proficiency in mathematics and physics. Familiarity with AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and other design software, as well as knowledge of industry standards and the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, is typically required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help differentiate candidates in collaborative and project-driven environments. These abilities ensure the effective design, analysis, and execution of infrastructure projects while meeting safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

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

AspectEntry Level Civil EngineeringCivil Engineering Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil engineering or related fieldAssociate degree or diploma in civil engineering technology
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, project management, often in office settingsFieldwork, site inspections, assisting engineers on construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, construction companies, government agenciesConstruction firms, consulting firms, government departments

Entry Level Civil Engineering roles typically require a bachelor's degree and focus on design and planning tasks, while Civil Engineering Technicians usually hold an associate degree and assist with fieldwork and technical support. 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 at entry level but can enhance career prospects later.

What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineering jobs in California?

The most popular types of Civil Engineering jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs in California?

For Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Civil Engineering job openings:

Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Civil Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,565 per year, or $34.9 per hour.

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

Langan Engineering & Environmental Services

Irvine, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Langan rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 451 rated engineering

Job description

Langan provides expert land development engineering and environmental consulting services for major developers, renewable energy producers, energy companies, corporations, healthcare systems, colleges/universities, and large infrastructure programs throughout the U.S. and around the world. Our employees collaborate seamlessly among 50+ offices and gain valuable hands-on experience that fosters career growth. Langan culture is entrepreneurial from advancing innovative technical solutions, to participating in robust training and knowledge sharing, to making progressive change within the communities we live and work.

Consistently ranked among the top ten "Best Firms to Work For" and Engineering News-Record's top 50 firms worldwide, Langan attracts and retains the best talent in the industry. Employees thrive at Langan, a firm that fosters an inclusive and supportive work environment for all; prioritizes wellbeing, health, and safety; encourages volunteerism and philanthropy; offers workplace flexibility, along with carbon-neutral office spaces; and empowers individuals to contribute their skills and knowledge to make impactful contributions.

 Job Summary

Langan is seeking an Entry-Level Civil Engineer to join its collaborative team in Irvine, CA. This individual will serve a key function in providing assistance with the planning, design, and permitting of civil engineering, land development, and infrastructure projects. In this role, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in site/civil engineering design for mixed-use developments, shopping centers, residential, higher education, federal, and other exciting land development projects.

Job Responsibilities
  • Assist with the planning, design and permitting of civil engineering, land development and infrastructure projects;
  • Assist with the preparation and modification of various engineering documents including reports, specifications, plans, construction schedules, cost estimates and design plans for projects using engineering and design software (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, etc.) and equipment;
  • Effectively use reports, maps, drawings, engineering plans, test and aerial photographs to assess soil composition, terrain, hydrological characteristics and topographical and geologic data and their impact on the planning and design of projects;
  • Recommend new approaches and ideas that continuously improve efficiency and services performed;
  • Apply knowledge and techniques of engineering and advanced mathematics;
  • Collaborate with team members on project tasks and assignments; and
  • Perform other duties as requested.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering;
  • 0-2 years of work-related experience; 
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA;
  • EIT Certification or current registration for the FE exam preferred;
  • Prior relevant internship or professional experience in site/civil design, including site planning, grading, stormwater management, drainage, and soil erosion;
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
  • Strong attention to detail with excellent analytical, multitasking, and judgment capabilities;
  • Ability to effectively work independently and in a team environment; and
  • Availability to work Monday through Friday with occasional evenings and weekends.

Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help its employees advance their careers and enhance the quality of their lives. Our comprehensive compensation package includes: full-time employment company paid medical, dental, and vision coverage; life insurance, short- and long-term disability insurance, and paid pregnancy disability leave; 401(k)/Roth with company match; paid time off including parental and military leave; employee referral and professional license bonuses; and educational reimbursement.

Langan offers employee resource groups; flexible work schedules; extensive training; wellness programs; buddy and mentoring programs; and much more!

Langan is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. We believe that an inclusive workplace is essential for the well-being and success of our employees.

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