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General Engineering Contractor Jobs in California

Meet with Architects, Contractors, Owners, and Clients to establish and cultivate strong working ... Intimate knowledge of general engineering principles, statics, dynamics of structures and general ...

Estimator (Open)

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$95K - $165K/yr

Lund Construction Co. is a third-generation family-owned general engineering contractor specializing in grading, underground utilities, and wet utility installation. Known for our integrity, quality ...

Project Superintendent

Grover Beach, CA ยท On-site

$75K - $120K/yr

The team works hard to fulfill all the construction needs of federal, state, and local government agencies, developers, general contractors and private owners. Quincon employs skilled laborers, heavy ...

Civil Engineering Intern

Pasadena, CA ยท On-site

$22.93 - $40.14/hr

Reviewing small and portions of larger contractor drawing submittals and assisting in performing ... or from general engineering and design information according to established standards and ...

Reviewing small and portions of larger contractor drawing submittals and assisting in performing ... or from general engineering and design information according to established standards and ...

Filanc is an award-winning, general engineering and design-build contractor that constructs, renovates, and expands water and wastewater treatment, biosolids management, and waste-to-energy ...

Filanc is an award-winning, general engineering and design-build contractor that constructs, renovates, and expands water and wastewater treatment, biosolids management, and waste-to-energy ...

Showing results 41-60

General Engineering Contractor information

See California salary details

$11

$38

$75

How much do general engineering contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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.

How much do general engineering contractors make?

General engineering contractors typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Senior contractors or those managing large projects can earn significantly more, often exceeding $150,000 annually. Certifications and a strong understanding of construction management tools can influence earning potential.

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 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a general engineering contractor?

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 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:
Infographic showing various General Engineering Contractor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,426 per year, or $38.7 per hour.

Division Manager-Heavy Civil Construction

Kimmel & Associates

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$180K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

About the Company
The company is a Southern California-based heavy civil general engineering contractor with deep expertise in self-performed public works, railroad, and utility infrastructure projects. They have built their reputation on operational excellence, field execution, and a hands-on approach to heavy civil construction. The company self-performs the majority of its work across utilities, earthwork, asphalt, concrete, and rail infrastructure.
About the Position
The company is seeking a hands-on Division Manager to lead and grow its heavy civil self-performed operations throughout Southern California. This is not a high-level delegator role - the ideal candidate is an operational leader who stays actively involved in project execution, estimating, and field operations when needed.
The Division Manager will oversee division performance across utilities, dirtwork, asphalt, concrete, and rail projects while owning operational and financial outcomes. This individual will lead teams, mentor staff, support strategic pursuits, and personally step into Project Management or estimating responsibilities on complex or high-priority projects.
This role is best suited for a builder-operator who thrives in the work, understands self-perform construction deeply, and leads from the front.
Key Responsibilities
  • Own division P&L performance, including revenue, gross margin, operating margin, and cash flow.
  • Oversee execution of self-performed heavy civil operations across utilities, earthwork, asphalt, concrete, and rail.
  • Support estimating efforts on strategic pursuits by reviewing takeoffs, validating unit costs, and shaping bid strategy.
  • Step directly into Project Manager responsibilities on critical or at-risk projects when needed.
  • Mentor and develop PMs, estimators, superintendents, and field leadership teams.
  • Maintain strong relationships with public agencies, railroad clients, and utility owners.
  • Drive equipment utilization, field productivity, cost control, and operational efficiency.
  • Partner with executive leadership on growth initiatives, market expansion, and capital planning.
  • Champion company safety culture and quality standards across all operations.

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • 10+ years of progressive experience in heavy civil construction.
  • Current or recent experience as a Project Manager, Senior PM, Director, or Division-level leader.
  • Strong self-perform background in:
    • Utilities
    • Earthwork / dirtwork
    • Asphalt
    • Concrete
  • Active experience in the California heavy civil market.
  • Proven success delivering public works, utility-owner, or agency-driven projects.
  • Strong financial and operational acumen, including:
    • P&L ownership
    • Cost forecasting
    • Change order management
    • Field productivity oversight
  • Estimating capability with the ability to review, build, and challenge estimates credibly.
  • Demonstrated success developing and retaining strong field and office teams.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Rail project experience
  • Caltrans project delivery experience.
  • Bilingual English / Spanish.

Benefits
  • Competitive base salary: $180,000-$250,000 DOE
  • Company vehicle
  • Profit sharing program
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Direct executive exposure
  • Long-term growth runway into senior leadership

Kimmel & Associates logo

About Kimmel & Associates

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Kimmel & Associates, based in Asheville, NC, US, is recognized as the premier leader in the executive search and recruitment industry. The company, in operation since 1981, serves numerous industries including construction, supply chain, waste, and recycling, specialty contractors, and private equity. Utilizing their exceptional knowledge and robust industry connections, they assist clients by filling crucial executive and managerial roles that directly impact business performance and growth. The company is guided by a strong corporate philosophy centered on respect, listening, humility, and continuous improvement. Their mission is to foster enduring relationships and to help industries thrive by connecting the brightest talent with superior companies.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Asheville, NC, US

Year founded

1981

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