1

Highway Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roadway Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Develop detailed engineering designs for municipal roadway projects, including geometric design, pavement design, drainage, and traffic control plans. * Utilize advanced design software (e.g ...

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Coordinate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, planners, CAD ... focus on highway projects. * California Professional Engineering (P.E.) License required.

Tunnel Engineer

Menlo Park, CA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

A minimum bachelor's degree in civil engineering, construction, or a related degree is required. * 0-5 years combined experience in project management or estimating in Tunneling or Civil Engineering.

The Engineer monitors the physical plant to ensure accordance with approved plans, specifications ... highway, or major bridge construction projects Certifications such as ACI Concrete Field Testing ...

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Coordinate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, planners, CAD ... focus on highway projects. * California Professional Engineering (P.E.) License required.

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Coordinate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, planners, CAD ... focus on highway projects. * California Professional Engineering (P.E.) License required.

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Coordinate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, planners, CAD ... focus on highway projects. * California Professional Engineering (P.E.) License required.

Project Manager - Highway

San Jose, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Coordinate and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, planners, CAD ... focus on highway projects. * California Professional Engineering (P.E.) License required.

Showing results 21-40

Highway Engineer information

See California salary details

$46.9K

$96.7K

$131.8K

How much do highway engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for highway engineer in California is $96,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,400.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a highway engineer?

A highway engineer specializes in designing and maintaining roads, bridges, and tunnels to ensure safe and efficient transportation in a region. As a highway engineer, you must understand how traffic moves through a location for vehicles and pedestrians to determine the best flow of traffic. You must also know what kind of road surface would work best for each project. Highway engineers may work on a project from the design phase all the way through construction, and often are called back to maintain the structures to make sure they are still fully functional.

What does a highway engineer do?

A Highway Engineer is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of roads, highways, and related infrastructure. Their work includes ensuring that transportation routes are safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. They collaborate with other engineers, government agencies, and contractors to address traffic flow, drainage, materials, and safety standards. Highway Engineers also assess existing road conditions and recommend improvements or repairs as needed.

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

To thrive as a Highway Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, road design, and construction management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Proficiency with CAD software, transportation modeling tools, and project management systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective highway infrastructure development and maintenance.

What are some common challenges highway engineers face when working on large infrastructure projects?

Highway Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, managing tight project timelines, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental regulations. Working on large-scale projects also requires adapting to unexpected site conditions and balancing budget constraints with quality standards. Effective communication and collaboration with surveyors, contractors, and government agencies are essential to address these challenges and keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Highway Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectHighway EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often preferredBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, transportation departments, engineering firmsConstruction sites, infrastructure projects, consulting firms
Industry UsageSpecializes in highway and road projectsBroader scope including bridges, buildings, and infrastructure
Common Search/ComparisonHighway Engineer vs Civil Engineer

Highway Engineers focus specifically on designing, constructing, and maintaining roads and highways, often working within transportation departments or specialized firms. Civil Engineers have a broader role, working on various infrastructure projects including buildings, bridges, and water systems. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in work environments, but Highway Engineers specialize in transportation infrastructure.

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Highway Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Highway Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Highway 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 $96,735 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Roadway Engineer

Kimley-Horn

San Jose, CA • On-site

$105K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Kimley-Horn rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

Kimley-Horn's San Jose, California (CA) office is seeking a Roadway Engineer with 1.5+ years of experience to join their Roadway team! This is not a remote position.


We are seeking a skilled and motivated Roadway Engineer with at least 1.5 years of experience to join our roadway projects team. The ideal candidate will be proficient in roadway design and have some exposure to project management duties, ready to assist in the planning and execution of municipal transportation projects. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with project teams.

Key Responsibilities:

    1. Design and Production:

      • Develop detailed engineering designs for municipal roadway projects, including geometric design, pavement design, drainage, and traffic control plans.
      • Utilize advanced design software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D) to create precise and accurate plans and specifications.
    2. Project Support:

      • Assist project managers in the planning, scheduling, and execution of roadway projects.
      • Prepare project documentation, reports, and presentations for client and stakeholder communication.
    3. Technical Expertise:

      • Provide technical support and input throughout the project lifecycle, from concept development through construction.
      • Conduct field visits and surveys to gather data and assess project sites.
    4. Quality Assurance:

      • Review and verify the accuracy of design plans and documents, ensuring compliance with applicable standards and regulations.
      • Assist in implementing quality control processes to maintain high standards of project delivery.
    5. Client Interaction:

      • Assist in maintaining strong relationships with municipal clients by providing regular project updates and addressing any concerns.
      • Participate in meetings with clients, regulatory agencies, and other stakeholders to discuss project progress and requirements.
    6. Regulatory Compliance:

      • Ensure that all project designs comply with local, state, and federal regulations, as well as industry standards and best practices.
      • Assist in preparing and submitting documentation required for regulatory approvals and permits.
    7. Team Collaboration:

      • Work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, planners, CAD designers, and construction inspectors.
      • Mentor junior staff by sharing knowledge and promoting continuous improvement within the team.

  • Minimum of 1.5 years of experience in roadway design, with a focus on municipal projects.
  • Proficiency in using industry-standard design software such as Microstation, Open Roads, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D
  • Strong understanding of civil engineering principles, roadway design standards, and traffic engineering principles
  • Demonstrated ability to analyze complex engineering problems and develop effective solutions
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly and concisely
  • A collaborative and adaptable approach to work, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team
  • Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines
  • Commitment to staying updated on industry trends, regulations, and advancements in roadway engineering

Salary Range

$105,000 - $120,000


At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People, clients, and employees are at the forefront of who we are. Clients know we prioritize achieving their goals and growing their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to provide an environment for everyone to flourish. Our commitment to quality is only as good as the people behind it— that’s why we welcome and develop passionate, hardworking, and proactive employees. We take pride in how our employee retention, robust benefits package, and company values have led to Kimley-Horn’s placement on the Fortune “100 Best Companies to Work” list for 19 years!

Key Benefits at Kimley-Horn

  • Exceptional Retirement Plan: 2-to1- company match on up to 4% of eligible compensation (salary + bonus) and additional profit-sharing contribution.
  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Time Off: Personal leave, flexible scheduling, floating holidays, and half-day Fridays.
  • Financial Wellness: Student loan matching in our 401(k), and performance-based bonuses.
  • Professional Development: Tuition reimbursement and extensive internal training programs.
  • Family-Friendly Benefits: New Parent Leave, family building benefits, and childcare resources.

What Kimley-Horn employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Kimley-Horn logo

About Kimley-Horn

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

We are a full-service consulting firm that provides a wide range of infrastructure and land development planning and engineering services to both public and private clients. Though we have more than 6,000 employees in 100+ offices, we pride ourselves on our small company feel. At Kimley-Horn, we do things differently. People--clients and employees--are at the forefront of our business. Clients know we are laser-focused on their success. Employees know our culture and approach to business are built on a desire to see our staff flourish, one and all. Both groups know that with Kimley-Horn, they can expect more and experience better.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Raleigh, NC, US

Year founded

1967