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Entry Level Cost Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Dennis Group

Entry Level Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA

$78K - $82K/yr

... cost estimates and proposals Provide client assumptions on supply recommendations Develop process and instrumentation drawings (P&IDs) Oversee process and utility equipment installations Provide ...

Dennis Group

Entry Level Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

Process Engineers work in every aspect of a project - controls, packaging, mechanical, electrical ... Work with clients, vendors, and suppliers to develop cost estimates and proposals * Provide client ...

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All JobsCost Engineer JobsEntry Level Cost Engineer JobsEntry Level Cost Engineer Jobs in California

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 8, 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 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 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 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 most commonly searched types of Cost Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Cost Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level 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:
Entry Level Cost Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cost Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,777 per year, or $46 per hour.

Project Engineer - Water/Wastewater

Garney Construction

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Garney Construction rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

GARNEY

A Project Engineer position is available at Garney. This position will act as the backbone of the project management team and keep the job on track. Great attention to detail and the ability to organize and plan will ensure success in this position.

WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING

You will assist the project management team with tasks such as negotiating and purchasing materials, maintaining documents, and acting as a point of contact with owners, architects, and engineers

Responsibilities:

  • Create Submittals and RFI's
  • Coordinate projects from start to finish
    • Assist with estimating
    • Project setup & closeout
    • support field operations
    • maintain detailed job costs
  • Work professionally with owners and engineers
  • Assist in scheduling projects and crews
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR

The ideal candidate will have a degree in civil engineering, construction management, or another related field and is willing to travel and work the days and hours required to ensure the project's success. This position is perfect for someone seeking entry-level project management experience with an industry leader.

LET'S TALK THE PERKS!
  • Free medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans ($0 premiums)
  • Virtual doctor visits with no co-pay
  • Shares of company stock at no cost starting on your first day
  • 401(k) plan with a 3.5% match
  • Student loan resources
  • Weekly paychecks
  • Paid time off and 8 paid holidays
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with a lump sum and matching contributions
  • Free life insurance and disability policy
  • Free access to healthcare coordinators
  • Counseling sessions with mental health professionals at no cost
  • Access to consultations with legal and financial professionals at no cost
  • Free programs assisting with weight loss, maternity health, prescriptions for chronic conditions, and more
  • 50% employee discount in the Garney apparel store
CONTACT US

If you are interested in the Project Engineer position, please click APPLY NOW to submit your application. To view additional opportunities with Garney, visit careers.garney.com

If you have questions or would like more information, please email recruiter@garney.com and include the job location and requisition ID (listed below the job title at the top of the page) to ensure a prompt response. Please note that email inquiries are not a substitute for submitting an application. All openings listed are currently accepting candidates.

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