ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Independent Contractor Civil Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lake County, IL

Civil Engineer

Libertyville, IL · On-site +1

$73K - $130K/yr

Responsibilities include daily inspection of construction contracts and contractor field work to ... The ability to work effectively independently and as a member of a team. * Possession of a valid ...

gateway engineers

Civil Engineer

Pittsburgh, PA

The Civil Engineer position will coordinate projects with clients, contractors, outside consultants, and firm staff. * Perform engineering calculations and design using specialized technical skills ...

CRW Engineering Group

Civil Engineer

Olympia, WA · On-site

$75K - $120K/yr

Civil Engineering Group - Join Our Growing Team in Olympia, WA! Are you ready to take the next step ... Coordinate with internal teams and external partners (planners, architects, contractors, permitting ...

AKP Recruiting

Civil Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Work Independently on challenging technical assignments ... Build and maintain an effective working relationship with clients, regulators, contractors or other ...

A.E. Hodsdon Engineers

Civil Engineer

Waterville, ME · On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Successful candidates must have the ability to work both independently and within a team ... consultants, contractors, etc. * A valid Maine driver license and the ability to travel to job ...

CRW Engineering Group

Civil Engineer

Olympia, WA · On-site

Coordinate with internal teams and external partners (planners, architects, contractors, permitting ... Bachelors degree in Civil Engineering or related field * Passed FE (Fundamentals of Engineering ...

CRW Engineering Group

Civil Engineer

Olympia, WA

$75K - $120K/yr

Civil Engineering Group - Join Our Growing Team in Olympia, WA! Are you ready to take the next step ... Coordinate with internal teams and external partners (planners, architects, contractors, permitting ...

Actalent

Civil Engineer

Holtsville, NY

$53 - $68/hr

The position involves close collaboration with internal teams, contractors, architects, and regulatory agencies to deliver high-quality, constructible civil engineering solutions. Responsibilities

City of Springfield

Civil Engineer I

Springfield, MA

$66K - $79K/yr

Indirect supervision is exercised over contractors and professionals hired by the City. Essential ... Ability to research and resolve problems independently. Ability to maintain complex records and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsIndependent Contractor Civil Engineer Jobs

Independent Contractor Civil Engineer information

See salary details

$38K

$82.7K

$123K

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

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor civil engineer in the United States is $82,674.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 are Independent Contractor Civil Engineers?

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, and why are they important?

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.
More about Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Civil Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs are:
Independent Contractor Civil Engineer jobs near you
Civil Engineer

Civil Engineer

Lake County, IL

Libertyville, IL • On-site, Remote

$73K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Salary : $73,132.80 - $130,000.00 Annually
Location : Libertyville, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: DOT
Department: Division of Transportation
Opening Date: 06/05/2026
General Description
At the Division of Transportation (DOT) our mission is to provide a safe, efficient and innovative transportation system to enhance mobility, economic development and quality of life in Lake County. As an Civil Engineer on our team, you'll take on meaningful projects that shape infrastructure, connect communities, and improve everyday life-while advancing your career with a team driven by innovation, collaboration, and real impact.
At the Division of Transportation, Civil Engineers can grow their careers in four rewarding areas:
  • Construction: Lead road and bridge projects in the field as a Resident Engineer, seeing work come to life and making real-time decisions. Responsibilities include daily inspection of construction contracts and contractor field work to ensure compliance with plans and specifications, measuring and documenting the work for payment. Primarily field-based, Mon-Fri, 6:30am-3:00pm, with anticipated paid overtime during peak construction season (April-November).
  • Capital Projects: As a project manager, oversee the Phase I and Phase II process for complex, high-impact projects within an $800M program, working with consultants and stakeholders to deliver major highway improvements. Office-based, Mon-Fri, 8:00am-4:30pm, with flexible schedules and remote options.
  • In-House Design: As a Design Engineer, design and develop roadway plans, specifications, and estimates while coordinating with agencies and partners for in-house design projects. Provide technical guidance and plan review for major highway projects led by the Capital Projects team. Office-based, Mon-Fri, 8:00am-4:30pm, with flexible schedules and remote options.
  • Traffic: Play a key role in improving traffic flow and safety by designing, analyzing, and optimizing signal systems and the County's Intelligent Transportation System (ITS). Work includes signal timing, capacity analysis, and reviewing intersection improvements. Primarily office-based, Mon-Fri, 8:00am-4:30pm, with occasional field work and flexible/remote options.

At this time, we have openings in the following divisions - Construction, Capital Projects, & In-House Design - and we are actively hiring for these areas. We are accepting applications for all divisions and will contact qualified candidates if a position becomes available within their selected division.
Essential Functions
  • Manage or support transportation projects from planning through construction
  • Review work for compliance with plans, specifications, and engineering standards
  • Coordinate with internal staff, municipalities, consultants, contractors, and the public
  • Perform field inspections, site visits, and data collection
  • Prepare and review plans, specifications, cost estimates, and technical reports
  • Monitor project progress, budgets, and schedules
  • Document construction activities and maintain accurate project records
  • Perform technical analysis and develop engineering solutions
  • Communicate technical information to stakeholders and the public
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across office and field environments

Daily responsibilities may vary based on division assignment, project phase, and operational priorities. As needed, engineers may work across multiple functions including design, construction, traffic operations, and capital delivery, contributing to the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of the County's transportation system.
Knowledge Skills Abilities and Education Required
Based on education, licensure, and experience, we have Civil Engineer roles at three levels:
Position LevelGradePay InformationPosition RequirementsCivil EngineerStarting at $74,410.79Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering
Senior EngineerStarting at $85,193.24Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering
+ 2 years relevant experience
+ Registration as an Engineer-in-Training under the Illinois Professional Engineering Act
Principal EngineerStarting at $94,802.51Bachelors Degree in Civil Engineering
+ 6 years relevant experience
+ Licensed Professional Engineer issued by the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR)
All Civil Engineering roles require:
  • Working knowledge of principles and practices of civil engineering.
  • Excellent organizational, project management, and communication skills.
  • Effective problem solving ability for complex engineering issues.
  • The ability to work effectively independently and as a member of a team.
  • Possession of a valid Driver's License, supplemented by a satisfactory driving record, required.

You can find our full salary ranges for these positions here:
Supplemental Information
Why Join the Lake County Division of Transportation?
At the Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT), you'll have the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the community by helping plan, design, and deliver transportation infrastructure projects that improve mobility, safety, and quality of life for residents and visitors throughout the county.
Benefits of a Career in Local Government:
  • Competitive pension and long-term retirement security
  • Comprehensive benefits and government retirement programs
  • Strong work-life balance with predictable schedules
  • Meaningful public service through community-focused infrastructure projects
  • Stable employment with opportunities for professional growth and development

To learn more about LCDOT and the work we do, visit: Lake County Division of Transportation.To view current and upcoming transportation projects, visit: Current and Upcoming Projects
Lake County offers a competitive salary and benefit package. We also offer flexible working hours, and a comprehensive wellness and training program. Visit our page to get additional information on why you should work for Lake County! Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screening, drug testing, and may include a pre-employment medical exam.
Lake County is committed to being a diverse and inclusive workplace and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).
The County offers an extensive benefits package to eligible employees including health, dental, vision, life insurance, pension, deferred compensation plans, and so much more! Below are resources for the County's current benefits.
You can find additional details on our benefits at and
01
Which division(s) of civil engineering at Lake County are you interested in?
  • Construction
  • Capital Projects
  • In-House Design
  • Traffic

02
What is your current status regarding Professional Engineer (PE) licensure (e.g., EIT certification, PE licensed, eligible, or in progress), and what steps-if any-are you currently taking toward obtaining or maintaining your PE?
03
What are your salary and benefit expectations for this role?
Required Question

Apply