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Entry Level Contractor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Contract Specialist - Entry Level Location: Alameda, California (US Coast Guard Island) Type ... Communicate with technical experts and other USCG contracting personnel to assist with processing ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Contractor information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$47.2K

$67.6K

How much do entry level contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level contractor in California is $47,205.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $51,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level contractor?

Entry level contractors are individuals who are just starting their careers in a particular trade or industry and work on a contract basis, rather than as full-time employees. They typically perform tasks under supervision, gaining hands-on experience while learning industry standards and safety protocols. Entry level contractors may work in fields such as construction, IT, or engineering, and their responsibilities usually focus on supporting more experienced professionals, assisting with projects, and developing specialized skills. These positions often serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles within the industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level contractor expect to handle in their first year?

As an entry level contractor, you can expect to work on a variety of foundational tasks such as assisting with project documentation, performing site visits, helping to ensure compliance with safety regulations, and supporting more experienced team members with daily operations. You may also be responsible for communicating with suppliers, tracking project progress, and learning industry-specific software. These tasks are designed to provide hands-on experience, familiarize you with project workflows, and help build relationships with colleagues and clients, all of which are essential for growth in the contracting field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Contractor, you need a basic understanding of construction principles, safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with hand and power tools, safety certifications like OSHA 10, and the ability to read blueprints are typically required. Strong work ethic, communication skills, and a willingness to learn help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are important because they ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality work on construction sites while supporting team collaboration.

What is the difference between Entry Level Contractor vs Apprentice Carpenter?

AspectEntry Level ContractorApprentice Carpenter
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, basic safety trainingTypically in training, may have basic safety courses
Work EnvironmentSupervised construction sites, project-basedOn-site learning under supervision, hands-on training
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction companies, general contractingCarpentry apprenticeships, union or non-union programs
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Contractors and Apprentice Carpenters both start their careers in construction, but Entry Level Contractors often have more responsibilities and may handle project coordination, while Apprentice Carpenters focus on learning carpentry skills under supervision. Both roles require safety training and are common entry points into the construction industry.

How to get into entry level contractor work with no experience?

Entry level contractor roles often require basic skills in construction, carpentry, or related trades. Gaining relevant certifications, such as OSHA safety training, and starting with apprenticeships or entry-level positions can help build experience and improve job prospects.

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

The most popular types of Contractor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Contractor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Contractor job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Contractor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,205 per year, or $22.7 per hour.

Entry Level Tunnel Engineer - 2027

LJB, Inc.

Riverside, CA โ€ข On-site

$8.1K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description
LJB Engineering Company, is a national engineering consulting firm currently seeking an Entry Level Tunnel Engineer for our Los Angeles, CA office location. The ideal candidate will have 0-3 years of experience working on working on geotechnical, underground, tunnel, or trenchless construction projects and possess the professional and interpersonal skills to make a positive impact on our firm and the clients we serve.
We are looking for a motivated professional with a forward-thinking mindset, strong analytical problem-solving skills, and a collaborative spirit.
Salary Range: $81,00 - $99,750 based upon experience, certifications, and regional market standards.
Benefits: View our 2026 Benefits Summary
ENTRY LEVEL TUNNEL ENGINEER ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Produce technical deliverables according to client specifications with appropriate guidance.
  • Prepare construction plans and specifications, structural/geotechnical calculations and design reports, and technical memoranda with appropriate guidance.
  • Communicate technical and non-technical information in a concise, professional manner, including participation in technical meetings and workshops with owners, contractors, and other stakeholders.
  • Produce engineering calculations including tunnel, geotechnical, and structural calculations (including numerical analysis) as required in support of tunnel and trenchless design including support of excavation (shafts & tunnels - including connection details and complex structures), and adherence to all local and national codes of practice for concrete, steel, and timber design.
  • Assist in preparation of technical memoranda, letters, and reports, including geotechnical data reports (GDR's), and geotechnical baseline reports (GBR's).
  • Assist with geotechnical engineering associated with tunnel and trenchless design, including development of design parameters from geotechnical reports and project documents.
  • Assist with structural engineering associated with tunnel, shaft, and stations, including lining, connections, support of excavation, and retaining structures in steel, concrete, and timber.
  • Observe construction in the field on an as needed basis.
  • Field based assignments will include weekdays, night, and weekend work. Office based assignments will require a standard weekday business hours work schedule.

ENTRY LEVEL TUNNEL ENGINEER
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in relevant area of study (Civil, Structural, Geological/Geotechnical, or related field).
  • 0-3 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Thorough knowledge of relevant technical codes, operations, processes, and trends.

Core Skills:
  • Excellent problem solving, decision making, and teamwork skills.
  • Excellent technical writing skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues, contractors, and clients.
  • Ability to work independently, exercise independent judgment, interact with other staff, and collaborate with other disciplines.

Why Join LJB?
Join LJB to build your career alongside experienced engineers while gaining hands-on exposure to complex tunnel, geotechnical, and trenchless projects. We provide opportunities to learn, grow, and take on increasing responsibility as you develop your technical expertise.
LJB Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are valued, respected, and have the opportunity to succeed. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, marital status, or any other protected status under applicable law. If you are a self-starting individual who wishes to join an established team that believes in excellence in the workplace, this opportunity is for you.
Recruiters or staffing agencies: LJB does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruitment agencies. Any resume submitted without a signed agreement will be considered the property of LJB, and no fees will be paid. Please direct all communications to the HR team.
Keywords: Entry level, Tunnel Engineer, Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer