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Entry Level Civil Engineering Jobs in Houston, MN

Winona County, MN

Highway Design Engineer

Winona, MN · On-site

$46.47/hr

... civil engineering work in the surveying, design and construction of county road and bridge projects ... This position provides guidance and support to Entry Level Technicians, Intermediate Technicians ...

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Entry Level Civil Engineering information

See Houston, MN salary details

$37.8K

$68.6K

$112.9K

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

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil engineering in Houston, MN is $68,583.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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. Obtaining relevant certifications, such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT), can also improve job prospects and demonstrate foundational knowledge in the field.

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, often combined with advanced certifications and extensive experience.

What is the lowest paid civil engineer?

Entry-level civil engineers typically have the lowest salaries in the field, often earning around $55,000 to $65,000 annually. Salaries can vary based on location, education, and employer, with those in regions with lower living costs earning at the lower end of the scale.

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 is an entry-level civil engineer?

An entry-level civil engineer is a professional who has recently graduated or has limited work experience in civil engineering. They typically assist with designing, planning, and overseeing construction projects, often using tools like AutoCAD and working under supervision to develop their skills and gain practical experience.

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.

What are entry level civil engineers?

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 cities near Houston, MN are hiring for Entry Level Civil Engineering jobs? Cities near Houston, MN 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 Houston, MN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,583 per year, or $33 per hour.

Highway Design Engineer

Winona County, MN

Winona, MN • On-site

$46.47/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Winona County is accepting applications for this position until filled.
This position starts at $36.24/hour (DOQ) with advancement up to $46.47/hour.
Characteristics of Class:Under the direction of the Assistant County Engineer and/or County Engineer, an employee in this class performs and manages skilled civil engineering work in the surveying, design and construction of county road and bridge projects. This position assists with all aspects of a construction project including planning, design and construction. This position provides guidance and support to Entry Level Technicians, Intermediate Technicians and Senior Technicians for road and bridge surveying, design and construction services. This position assists with overseeing the preparation of plans and specifications for construction and design projects. This position will assist the Assistant County Engineer with the preparation of plans, specifications, and construction oversite of a wide array of highway projects. Performs related work as required. Work is performed in an office setting or in the field as required.
Examples of Duties:Any one position may not include all the duties listed, nor do the examples listed in their relative order of importance include all the duties that may be found in positions of this class.
  • Manages and develops construction plans and contract documents by coordinating and conducting various studies and analyzing road conditions. Assists with the development and monitoring of the pavement management and construction programs. Designs and manages the development of final plans, including hydraulic modelling/hydraulic designs of drainage structures and storm water management needs. Reviews and enforces transportation plans and related policies. Reviews and calculates right-of-way needs. Reviews plans prepared by consultants and staff. Coordinates with local, regional, State and Federal agencies on bridge inspections, environmental reviews, permits and requests for information. Develops and manages contracts, agreements and consultants.
  • Assists with the management of the annual construction program by performing and coordinating the design of county roads and bridge projects, plan preparation, project specifications, and Engineer's estimate. Inspects and reviews all engineering plans and specifications for accuracy and completeness. Prepares and coordinates bid documents and maintains close involvement in the bidding process. Schedules and conducts pre-construction conference with contractor, utilities, and County staff. Administers and inspects construction projects to ensure compliance with plans and specifications. Ensures complete and accurate records are maintained for construction activities and submits required records to appropriate agencies. Assists with developing and maintaining the bridge replacement program. Negotiates in a timely manner the processes for requesting change orders or contract amendments for contract documents and professional design services. Manages scope, schedule, resources and risks of current and proposed projects to ensure department objectives are met.
  • Assists with planning and managing developmental impact to the County highway system and future growth needs by reviewing and commenting on development plans for compliance with highway requirements. Coordinates the department permitting program and reviews access/safety issues. Manages cooperative agreements and coordinates with Environmental Services. Assists with the development and updates to long-range transportation plans.
  • Responds to citizen groups and individuals to answer questions and resolve complaints.
  • Prepares and maintains reports and documents such as annual construction maps, infrastructure reports, pavement preservation estimates and weight restriction maps, updating the webpage and developing bridge priority lists.
  • Acts as backup for technicians during peak construction time and absences.
  • Any other duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:Any combination of training and experience providing the following knowledge, skills, and abilities.
For Pre-Employment:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam or the ability to obtain within six months of hire.
  • Must possess or have the ability to obtain certification in Design of Construction Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans and Construction Site Management within 1 year of hire.
  • Surveying, design in construction projects and construction inspection experience is highly desired.
  • Proficient use of computer software such as Microsoft applications, Word, Excel, Outlook and Computer Aided Design (CAD) software; Autodesk Civil 3D preferred.
  • Knowledge of construction equipment and material testing preferred.
  • Demonstrate the ability to use resource productively, effectively and efficiently.
  • Demonstrate the ability to think proactively, anticipate potential problems and provide workable solutions and alternative with a "can do" approach.
  • Ability to take initiative and utilize job knowledge to analyze situations, resolve problems and reach decisions.
  • Ability to effectively use both oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Ability to work independently.
  • Maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License.

For full job classification including ADA requirements, click here.
For a copy of the benefit statement for this position, click here.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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