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General Engineering Contractor Jobs in California

RAP Engineering, LLC.

Be Seen First

Estimator Construction - Asphalt Paving / Grading

San Diego, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Company Description RAP Engineering is a general engineering contractor specializing in asphalt paving and grading. RAP Engineering performs work in both the government, city municipalities and ...

Qlm-inc

landscape estimator

San Jose, CA · On-site

Company Description QLM Inc. is a General Engineering Contractor operating in the commercial and industrial sectors. We specialize in site landscape construction, concrete construction, asphalt ...

MAI

Estimator Project Manager

Pico Rivera, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We are a Southern California based general engineering contractor with operations consisting of primarily street and highway construction, and rock, sand, and gravel quarry operations with related ...

Qlm-inc

Experienced Landscape Estimator

Fremont, CA · On-site

Company Description QLM Inc. is a General Engineering Contractor operating in the commercial and industrial sectors. We specialize in site landscape construction, concrete construction, asphalt ...

Cass Arrieta

Equipment Operator

San Bernardino, CA

$20 - $27.25/hr

Cass Arrieta is a General Engineering Contractor specializing in wet utilities, dry utilities, structural concrete, and associated scopes of work within the public and private markets. With a ...

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All JobsGeneral Engineering Contractor JobsGeneral Engineering Contractor Jobs in California

General Engineering Contractor information

See California salary details

$11

$38

$75

How much do general engineering contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for general engineering contractor in California is $38.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.77 and $46.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges General Engineering Contractors face on large-scale infrastructure projects?

General Engineering Contractors often encounter challenges such as coordinating multiple subcontractors, managing tight project schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Effective communication with clients, engineers, and government agencies is crucial to address unexpected site conditions or design changes. Proactive problem-solving and strong organizational skills are essential to keep projects on track and within budget.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large projects, or holding executive-level responsibilities.

What is the difference between General Engineering Contractor vs General Contractor?

AspectGeneral Engineering ContractorGeneral Contractor
Credentials/CertificationsState-specific licenses, engineering licenses, and certificationsState licenses, construction management certifications
Work EnvironmentHeavy civil projects, infrastructure, roads, bridgesBuilding construction, commercial and residential projects
Employer & Industry UsagePublic works, infrastructure agencies, civil engineering firmsPrivate developers, construction firms, commercial builders

While both roles oversee construction projects, a General Engineering Contractor specializes in civil infrastructure like roads and bridges, requiring engineering licenses and focusing on heavy civil work. A General Contractor manages a broader range of building projects, including commercial and residential structures. Understanding these differences helps clients and job seekers identify the right role for their needs.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineering contractors or specialized engineering consultants can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially those working on large-scale projects or in high-demand industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or infrastructure. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often owning a business or working in senior leadership roles.

How much do engineer contractors make?

Engineer contractors, often working as independent or freelance professionals, typically earn between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, specialization, and project scope. Their income can vary based on location, certifications, and the complexity of engineering projects they undertake.

What is a General Engineering Contractor?

A General Engineering Contractor is a licensed professional or company responsible for planning, managing, and executing large-scale construction projects related to infrastructure and civil engineering. These projects can include roads, bridges, pipelines, water systems, and other public works. General Engineering Contractors coordinate with architects, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget. They must comply with local building codes and regulations, and are often required to hold specialized licenses and permits.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

A general engineering contractor typically does not earn a salary as a civil engineer; however, experienced civil engineers working in senior roles, consulting, or managing large projects can potentially earn $500,000 or more annually. Factors influencing high earnings include specialization, years of experience, project scope, and geographic location, along with relevant certifications like PE (Professional Engineer).

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a General Engineering Contractor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a General Engineering Contractor, you need in-depth knowledge of civil engineering principles, project management, and construction methods, typically backed by relevant licensing and a degree in engineering or construction management. Familiarity with project management software (like MS Project or Primavera), CAD tools, and compliance with safety and building codes is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities help manage teams, clients, and complex projects effectively. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and timely completion of engineering projects while maintaining regulatory compliance and client satisfaction.
What are popular job titles related to General Engineering Contractor jobs in California? For General Engineering Contractor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching General Engineering Contractor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for General Engineering Contractor jobs in California are:
General Engineering Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various General Engineering Contractor job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $80,426 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Engineer General Contractor- C-10/Class A

Indra USA Inc

San Francisco, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description


We are seeking a general contractor, technician, electrician or engineer with a California Class A General Engineering contractor license and/or a California Class C-10 electrical contractor’s license, in order to support transportation systems delivery projects and serve as the company’s qualifier in California to obtain and maintain the company’s Class A and/or Class-10 licensure in California


The candidate will serve in design support and systems implementation roles, including the oversight of field installation works and supervising subcontractors involved in installation works that may require the licensure referenced above. Support other field installation works (when no licensure is required) as assigned. The candidate will support systems integration and installation projects in transit, traffic management, intelligent transportation systems, and tolling, as applicable.

Key Responsibilities

  • Serve as Indra’s qualifier by maintaining an active California Class A General Engineering contractor license and/or a California Class C-10 electrical contractor’s license
  • Serve in design support and systems implementation roles, including the oversight of field installation works and subcontractors on projects that may require such licensure
  • Ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and company technical protocols
  • As necessary, support the Lead Engineer for the design and analysis of technical solutions in California; help analyze technical requirements and standards in requests for proposals and project documentation to provide compliance inputs to the design team
  • As necessary, identify and contact suppliers to support the costing and procurement of the equipment for projects in California

Qualifications

  • Either a minimum of four (4) years of relevant experience, such as working as an electrician, journeyman, foreman, supervisor, or senior technician; OR a four-year degree in engineering or a related field like architecture or project management
  • An active California Class A General Engineering contractor license and/or a California Class C-10 electrical contractor’s license
  • Experience using standard engineering tools
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Ability to work in cross-functional teams, both in bid/offer development and in project delivery
  • Desired: familiarity with regulations and standards pertaining to transportation in California.