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Horizontal Construction Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... horizontal locations and/or vertical elevations * Red-line construction changes on record drawing set for each project * Review project schedules and consult with the PM and/or Engineer of Record ...

... horizontal locations and/or vertical elevations * Red-line construction changes on record drawing set for each project * Review project schedules and consult with the PM and/or Engineer of Record ...

Military experience equivalent to 12N Horizontal Construction Engineer and/or 12H Construction Engineering Supervisor Working Conditions: * Able to meet the physical requirements of the position ...

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Horizontal Construction Engineer information

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$25K

$88.6K

$137.5K

How much do horizontal construction engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for horizontal construction engineer in the United States is $88,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,000.00 and $103,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Horizontal Construction Engineers on large-scale projects?

Horizontal Construction Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple teams to ensure project timelines are met, managing unexpected site conditions like weather or soil instability, and maintaining strict safety standards on active construction sites. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as engineers regularly collaborate with equipment operators, surveyors, and project managers. Staying organized and proactive helps address these challenges and ensures successful project completion.

What does a horizontal construction engineer do?

A horizontal construction engineer plans, designs, and oversees the construction of underground and surface infrastructure such as roads, pipelines, and utilities. They ensure projects meet safety standards, specifications, and deadlines, often using construction management software and working in outdoor environments. Certification in construction or engineering is typically required for this role.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles. Salaries at this level often involve senior positions, management responsibilities, or working in high-demand industries with significant project scope.

What are Horizontal Construction Engineers?

Horizontal Construction Engineers are professionals who specialize in building and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, airfields, dams, and other horizontal construction projects. They operate heavy machinery like bulldozers, graders, and excavators to prepare and construct surfaces for transportation and development. These engineers are crucial in both civilian and military settings, ensuring the safe and effective construction of essential groundwork. Their duties often include site preparation, earthmoving, grading, and maintenance of construction equipment.

How much do horizontal engineers make?

Horizontal Construction Engineers typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. They work on large-scale infrastructure projects, often requiring knowledge of heavy equipment and construction safety standards.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and often leadership roles or ownership stakes.

What is the difference between Horizontal Construction Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectHorizontal Construction EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in civil engineering or related field, plus relevant certificationsRequires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, often with licensure
Work EnvironmentOn-site construction projects, especially infrastructure and roadwaysDesign, planning, and overseeing various infrastructure projects, including roads and bridges
Employer & IndustryConstruction firms, government agencies, infrastructure companiesEngineering consulting firms, government agencies, construction companies

Horizontal Construction Engineers focus on the on-site construction of horizontal infrastructure like roads, bridges, and pipelines, while Civil Engineers often work on both design and oversight of such projects. Both roles require similar credentials and work in related environments, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ.

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

To thrive as a Horizontal Construction Engineer, you need expertise in site preparation, earthmoving, and construction management, typically supported by a background in civil engineering or related military training. Familiarity with heavy equipment operation, CAD software, surveying instruments, and safety certifications like OSHA are commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you coordinate with diverse crews and ensure project goals are met efficiently. These abilities are critical to delivering safe, accurate, and timely construction of roads, airfields, and infrastructure projects.
More about Horizontal Construction Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Horizontal Construction Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Horizontal Construction Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Horizontal Construction Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Horizontal Construction Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Horizontal Construction Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Horizontal Construction Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Horizontal Construction Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,563 per year, or $42.6 per hour.
Construction Observer II

Other

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description


The Construction Observer II is a mid-level role within our Construction Administration practice area, responsible for on-site observation of horizontal construction activities. The primary focus of this role is to ensure that construction work aligns with the approved project plans and specifications. Responsibilities include observing, documenting, and communicating construction-related information and issues, as well as compiling and analyzing technical data from drawings, field notes, and electronic sources.


Project and Client Management

  • Assist PM's, Assistant PM's, and Engineers of Record in the project construction and Certification process
  • Coordinate and attend project meetings and create subsequent documentation
  • Assist in communications with Clients per direction
  • Communicate with PM's, Assistant PM's, and/or Engineers of Record assigned to associated projects regularly and proactively about project and technical details; communicate any significant technical challenge, deviation from procedures and metrics, or incidents that occurs on projects
  • Understand project scope and budget and assist in monitoring

Technical

  • Understand horizontal construction and surveying for the following: utilities, drainage, drainage structures, SCMs, roadways, greenways, sidewalks, lighting, parking lots, traffic control, signing, striping, traffic calming, and landscaping
  • Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of utility networks, including water, sewer, gas, electric, and telecommunication systems
  • Understand, coordinate, and document geotechnical testing as directed
  • Perform shop drawing reviews
  • Read construction plans and specifications, interpret documents, and perform simple mathematical calculations
  • Able to perform field revisions and obtain necessary approvals from the Engineer of Record and inform PM and/or Assistant PM
  • Observe and verify that construction methods are generally in accordance with plans and specifications
  • Verify that material and equipment certificates, operation and maintenance manuals, and other data required by the specifications have been provided
  • Perform limited surveying/measuring to verify/confirm horizontal locations and/or vertical elevations
  • Red-line construction changes on record drawing set for each project
  • Review project schedules and consult with the PM and/or Engineer of Record regarding acceptability and changes. Inform client as directed
  • Receive and review applications for payment and forward recommendations to the PM and/or Assistant PM
  • Draft and recommend to the PM, Assistant PM, and/or Engineer of Record proposed change orders, work change directives, and field orders
  • Coordinate, document, and attend substantial and final completion inspections
  • Provide punch lists and subsequent follow up
  • Attend project start-ups and operation and maintenance training as directed
  • Document and facilitate information to supervisor, PM, Engineer of Record, and/or Client including site photos, documenting quantities, and providing daily logs
  • Report discrepancies from the plans and specifications immediately to supervisor, PM, Engineer of Record, and/or Client and recommend corrective measures and/or rejection of work
  • Receive contractor RFI's and review with PM, Assistant PM, and/or Engineer of Record as necessary
  • Understand technical, municipal, and State requirements for projects
  • Follow technical aspects and policies of the Department and Company
  • Analyze technical problems; devise new or improved techniques, approaches, and alternative solutions; and communicate those to supervisor for approval and implementation
  • Use company's current technology as much as practicable to document and communicate

Client and Business Development

  • Participate in civic and community events
  • Seek opportunities for cross-selling to enhance and expand our existing client relationships

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of the position. All employees may have other duties assigned at any time.


Why WR? WithersRavenel is looking for people who are passionate about collaboration, community, and client success. Your reward for sharing your talent with us? OWNERSHIP. As a 100% employee-owned company, every employee is an owner-which adds a powerful and unique dimension to our vibrant company culture and purposeful work. Our employee owners say they love a lot of things about WithersRavenel, but the things most often cited are:

  • our amazing people and team-first atmosphere,
  • our focus on the professional development and growth of our staff, and
  • our commitment to the communities in which we work and live.

Learn more about our benefits and employee ownership!


Bring your talent and collaborative spirit and join our team of employee owners at WithersRavenel!

Requirements

  • 5 (+) years of construction, engineering, surveying, and/or related work experience
  • High School Diploma
  • Self-motivated, engaged, team-oriented, and work with limited supervision
  • Handle multiple tasks under pressure and prioritize responsibilities
  • Good organizational and communication skills
  • Attention to detail and willingness to learn
  • Willingness to take direction
  • Demonstrate personal investment in your career
  • Energetic, flexible, and forward thinking
  • Valid driver's license with the ability to successfully pass a MVR records check

Preferred qualifications:

  • Associate or Bachelor's degree or related technical certificate
  • NCDOT or other specific certifications
  • Experience in Microsoft Office applications
  • AutoCAD experience
  • Bluebeam experience