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Independent Contractor Civil Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Civil Project Engineer - Site

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Candidates can expect to be continually challenged to independently design projects that develop ... Contracting 11. Communicate with Clients and Other Project Stakeholders, including attending and ...

... contractors Qualifications * 4+ years of relevant engineering design experience * Professional ... Candidates should have experience with site civil design, permitting, and applicable software ...

Civil Project Engineer - Site

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$82K - $110K/yr

Candidates can expect to be continually challenged to independently design projects that develop ... Contracting 11. Communicate with Clients and Other Project Stakeholders, including attending and ...

Plans and conducts independent evaluation, selection and adaptation of engineering techniques ... Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline * Licensed PE or ability and interest ...

Plans and conducts independent evaluation, selection and adaptation of engineering techniques ... Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or related discipline * Licensed PE or ability and interest ...

Perform Independent Technical Review, on work performed by others, as a part of our Quality Control ... Licensed Professional Engineer in North Carolina * Demonstrated leadership in a team atmosphere

Civil Engineer The Civil Engineer is a hybrid position that will support the project teams with ... Ability to complete CAD drawings independently in a timely manner * Learn construction methods best ...

... and work both independently and as part of a project team. The successful candidate will be ... BA/BS in Civil Engineering or related field+ 6 years of related experience or demonstrated ...

Showing results 41-60

Independent Contractor Civil Engineer information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$34K

$73.9K

$109.9K

How much do independent contractor civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor civil engineer in Raleigh, NC is $73,898.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,300.00 and $88,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor civil engineer?

Independent Contractor Civil Engineers are professionals who offer civil engineering services on a contract or freelance basis, rather than being employed by a single company. They may work on designing, planning, and overseeing construction projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. These engineers often manage their own schedules and clients, taking on projects for various organizations or individuals. Their work involves ensuring compliance with regulations and delivering solutions tailored to client needs. Independent contractor civil engineers must also handle their own business operations, such as contracts, taxes, and insurance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor civil engineer?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Civil Engineer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, project management, and typically a bachelor's degree in civil engineering with relevant licensure (PE). Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and project management tools, along with knowledge of local building codes and regulations, is essential. Strong communication, problem-solving, and self-motivation are valuable soft skills that set successful contractors apart. These skills and qualifications enable the effective planning, execution, and completion of diverse engineering projects while maintaining compliance and client satisfaction.

How do independent contractor civil engineers typically manage project timelines and communication with clients compared to in-house engineers?

As an Independent Contractor Civil Engineer, you are responsible for setting your own schedule and managing multiple projects simultaneously. This often involves establishing clear communication channels with clients and stakeholders, using project management tools, and providing regular updates on progress and deliverables. Unlike in-house roles, you may need to be more proactive in clarifying project expectations, negotiating deadlines, and ensuring timely delivery while balancing the needs of various clients. Effective time management and transparent communication are key to building trust and maintaining long-term client relationships.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Civil Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Civil EngineerCivil Engineer
CredentialsProfessional Engineer (PE) license, relevant degreesSame as contractor, typically PE license and degree
Work EnvironmentFreelance projects, self-managed, varied locationsEmployers' offices, project sites, consulting firms
Employer/Industry UsageSelf-employed, contracted for specific projectsEmployed by companies, government agencies, or firms
Work ScopeProject-based, flexible hours, independentFull-time or part-time, structured hours

In summary, an Independent Contractor Civil Engineer operates independently, managing their own projects and clients, while a Civil Engineer typically works as an employee within an organization. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment status and work setup.

What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC?

The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Independent Contractor Civil Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Civil Engineer job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,898 per year, or $35.5 per hour.

Civil Engineer - Land Development

Kimley-Horn

Durham, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 15 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

Overview

Kimley-Horn's Durham, North Carolina (NC) office is seeking a Civil Engineer with 4+ years of experience to join their Land Development team! This is not a remote position.

Responsibilities
  • Perform site development engineering and project management tasks for residential and commercial projects
  • Projects will include a variety of land development site designs
  • In addition to strong technical experience, other responsibilities will include research, coordination, project management, staff management, cost estimating, permitting for land disturbance and preparation of bid packages as well as technical specifications
  • Assist in monitoring project progress, budgets, and schedules
  • This is an exciting opportunity to work with a team of engineers and designers on a variety of projects
  • You will flourish on both building meaningful internal and external professional relationships
  • You will work closely and collaboratively with other industry leading professionals, various jurisdictions, and contractors
Qualifications
  • 4+ years of relevant engineering design experience
  • Professional Engineering (P.E.) License (or ability to obtain within 12 months)
  • Candidates should have experience with site civil design, permitting, and applicable software applications including hydrology modeling program, storm drainage programs, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D
  • Experience with task management, concept design, and assisting project management tasks
  • Familiar with coordinating with clients, attending client meetings, and overseeing quality standards
  • Working knowledge of AutoCAD Civil 3D
  • Ability to build plan sets and other construction documents
  • Design experience that includes utilities, site layout, drainage, due diligence and permitting
Why Kimley-Horn?

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.
Education:Bachelor's DegreeEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

What Kimley-Horn employees say

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Benefits

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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