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Formwork Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Carpenter

San Diego, CA · On-site

$32 - $45/hr

Ideal candidates have 2+ years of commercial formwork experience, can read blueprints, and are comfortable working with a variety of engineered and job‐built form systems. Key Responsibilities

Designer III

Thornton, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Key Responsibilities Design & Engineering Support * Create and revise concrete formwork designs using Revit, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD * Interpret architectural and structural drawings to develop ...

Key Responsibilities Design & Engineering Support * Create and revise concrete formwork designs using Revit, SolidWorks, and AutoCAD * Interpret architectural and structural drawings to develop ...

... formwork and shoring solutions, we empower our team to make a significant impact on construction projects worldwide. When you join EFCO, you're part of a team that sets the standard in engineering ...

Project Engineer - San Diego

San Diego, CA · On-site

$73K - $93K/yr

Prepare and maintain materials procurement to include Purchase Order Logs and Formwork Tracking ... Engineer to procure and maintain subcontractors' safety documentation (Toolbox Meetings, Job Hazard ...

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Formwork Engineer information

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$9

$46

$86

How much do formwork engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for formwork engineer in California is $46.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35.34 and $60.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Formwork Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectFormwork EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires engineering degree, certifications in formwork design or constructionRequires engineering degree, licensure (e.g., PE), and structural design certifications
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, formwork planning, and installationDesign offices, construction sites, structural analysis
Industry UsageHeavy construction, infrastructure projectsBuilding design, bridges, large structures

Formwork Engineers focus on designing and overseeing temporary structures for concrete casting, while Structural Engineers develop the overall structural framework of buildings and infrastructure. Both roles require engineering credentials and often work together on construction projects, but their specific responsibilities and focus areas differ.

What are Formwork Engineers?

Formwork Engineers are professionals who design, plan, and oversee the construction of temporary structures, known as formwork or shuttering, which hold and shape concrete until it hardens and achieves sufficient strength. They work closely with architects, structural engineers, and construction teams to ensure that formwork systems are safe, efficient, and cost-effective. Their responsibilities include selecting appropriate materials, creating formwork drawings, and inspecting installations to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards.

What are some common challenges faced by Formwork Engineers on construction sites, and how can these be addressed?

Formwork Engineers often encounter challenges such as tight project deadlines, ensuring safety compliance, and adapting designs to site-specific constraints. Coordinating with multiple stakeholders—like site managers, contractors, and design teams—can add complexity, especially when last-minute changes arise. Effective communication, thorough planning, and staying updated with the latest formwork systems and safety guidelines are key strategies to overcome these challenges and ensure successful project delivery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Formwork Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Formwork Engineer, a strong background in civil or structural engineering, proficiency in formwork design, and relevant engineering degrees or certifications are essential. Familiarity with CAD software, structural analysis tools, and industry safety standards is important for designing and planning effective formwork systems. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication, and attention to detail help in collaborating with construction teams and ensuring project safety and efficiency. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering safe, cost-effective, and structurally sound concrete frameworks in construction projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Formwork Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Formwork Engineer jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Formwork Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Formwork Engineer jobs in California are:

Senior Concrete Estimator

Charles Pankow Builders Ltd

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY

The Senior Concrete Estimator is responsible for preparing and managing concrete-specific estimates for medium to large commercial construction projects. This role emphasizes detailed takeoffs, cost analysis, and subcontractor/supplier coordination specific to concrete scopes—including formwork, reinforcement, placement, and finishing. The Estimator also supports operations teams in procurement strategy, constructability assessments, and concrete logistics planning, especially in fast-paced, self-perform environments.

JOB SCOPE & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Primary Accountabilities

  • Perform quantity takeoffs and prepare estimates for:
    • Concrete foundations and slabs
    • Vertical elements (walls, cores, columns)
    • Elevated decks and flatwork
    • Site concrete and specialty finishes
  • Develop and maintain budgets for:
    • Precast and cast-in-place components
    • Shoring/formwork systems
    • Concrete pumping and placement logistics
  • Prepare cost breakdowns at Conceptual, Schematic, and GMP stages.
  • Vendor/Subcontractor Procurement:
    • Solicit and evaluate quotes from concrete material suppliers and reinforcing subcontractors.
    • Provide feedback on scope gaps, exclusions, and buyout strategy.
  • Internal Support:
    • Support Project Management in aligning estimate assumptions with field execution.
    • Coordinate with Field Superintendents on production rates and formwork strategies.
  • Tools & Templates:
    • Develop and manage standard estimating templates for concrete scopes.
    • Convert final estimates into accounting system formats (e.g., CMiC or ERP tools).

Secondary Accountabilities

  • Assist with concrete scheduling and phasing plans.
  • Provide input on crane planning, pour sequencing, and formwork reuse.
  • Support constructability and site access reviews during early project planning.
  • Identify opportunities for value engineering specific to concrete systems (e.g., slab design alternatives, mix optimization, etc.).

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Training

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field preferred.
  • Field experience in concrete placement or estimating trade training is strongly preferred.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Deep understanding of:
    1. Self-perform concrete practices
    2. Material pricing trends and supply chain logistics
    3. Labor productivity for concrete scopes
    4. Scheduling tools and takeoff software (e.g., OST, Bluebeam, PlanSwift)
  • Strong communication and organization skills.

Work Experience

  • 10+ years of estimating or project engineering experience in concrete construction (field or office).