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Entry Level Cost Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Scheduling/Cost Analyst

Concord, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

... essential Entry Level/Intern Project Engineer responsibilities • Assist Project Manager and ... and cost accounting principles • Excellent written and verbal English communication skills ...

This role applies mechanical design principles, GD&T, and engineering best practices to create manufacturable, reliable, and cost-effective solutions. The engineer collaborates closely with cross ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Cost Engineer information

See California salary details

$44.9K

$95.8K

$137.7K

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cost engineer in California is $95,777.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,900.00 and $112,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level cost engineer do?

An entry level cost engineer is responsible for assisting with the estimation, analysis, and control of project costs in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and engineering. They help prepare cost estimates, monitor project budgets, and analyze financial data to ensure projects stay within financial targets. Their role often involves working closely with project managers and other teams to track expenses, forecast future costs, and identify potential savings. Entry level cost engineers are typically supervised and receive on-the-job training to develop their technical and analytical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level cost engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cost Engineer, you need a solid background in mathematics, analytical thinking, and a relevant degree such as engineering, construction management, or finance. Familiarity with cost estimating software (like CostX or Sage Estimating), Excel, and basic project management tools is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate with teams and manage project budgets efficiently. Mastering these skills ensures accurate cost control, timely project delivery, and supports informed decision-making in construction and engineering projects.

What are the typical day-to-day tasks of an entry level cost engineer?

As an Entry Level Cost Engineer, your daily responsibilities often include collecting and analyzing cost data, preparing cost estimates, monitoring project budgets, and reporting on financial progress to the project management team. You'll frequently collaborate with engineers, project managers, and procurement teams to ensure all cost-related information is accurate and up to date. Your attention to detail and ability to communicate findings help the team make informed decisions, control expenses, and keep projects on track financially. This role provides a strong foundation in project controls and financial management, offering valuable experience for future career advancement.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cost Engineer vs Cost Analyst?

AspectEntry Level Cost EngineerCost Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field; some certifications preferredBachelor's in Finance, Accounting, or related field; certifications like CPC or CMA advantageous
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, engineering firms, project officesCorporate offices, financial departments, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, engineering, infrastructure projectsFinance, manufacturing, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Entry Level Cost Engineer and Cost Analyst roles share similarities in requiring analytical skills and cost management knowledge. However, the Cost Engineer focuses more on project cost estimation and engineering aspects, while the Cost Analyst emphasizes financial analysis and budgeting. Both roles are essential in their industries and often overlap in skills, but their primary focus and work environments differ.

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

The most popular types of Cost Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Cost Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Cost Engineer job openings in California 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 $95,777 per year, or $46 per hour.

Entry-Level Civil Engineer

Irvine, CA • On-site


Langan Engineering & Environmental Services
Civil Engineering Construction

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 450 rated engineering

Good employer

Respectful managers

Good training


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


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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