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Phd Civil Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jones Edmunds

Engineer - Civil Engineering

Tampa, FL · On-site

Identify and solve engineering problems, proposing creative and practical solutions. * Collaborate ... PhD for 2 years). * Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with AutoCAD Civil 3D

AECOM

Project Civil Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

Master's OR PhD in Civil Engineering or related field of study * 8+ years or more of relevant experience * MSHA Miner training Demonstrated progressive experience in heavy civil infrastructure design ...

AECOM

Project Civil Engineering

Denver, CO · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

Master's OR PhD in Civil Engineering or related field of study * 8+ years or more of relevant experience * MSHA Miner training Demonstrated progressive experience in heavy civil infrastructure design ...

AECOM

Project Civil Engineering

Denver, CO

$87K - $116K/yr

Master's OR PhD in Civil Engineering or related field of study * 8+ years or more of relevant experience * MSHA Miner training Demonstrated progressive experience in heavy civil infrastructure design ...

WSP

Civil Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

Brentwood, TN

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Actively enrolled in an accredited Civil Engineering, or related, Masters or PhD program with an anticipated graduation date of August 2027 or later. * Experience using Bentley's OpenRoads Designer.

WSP

Civil Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

Brentwood, TN · On-site

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

Actively enrolled in an accredited Civil Engineering, or related, Masters or PhD program with an anticipated graduation date of August 2027 or later. * Experience using Bentley's OpenRoads Designer.

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Phd Civil Engineering information

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$38K

$82.7K

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How much do phd civil engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd civil engineering 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 a PhD in civil engineering?

A PhD in Civil Engineering is the highest academic degree in the field, focused on advanced study and research. It typically involves completing original research that contributes new knowledge to areas such as structural engineering, transportation, geotechnical engineering, or environmental systems. Graduates are trained for careers in academia, research institutions, or advanced industry roles. The program usually requires coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation.

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

To thrive as a PhD Civil Engineer, you need advanced expertise in civil engineering principles, research methods, and project management, typically supported by a doctoral degree in civil engineering or a related field. Proficiency with technical software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and finite element analysis tools, as well as experience publishing in academic journals, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for leading innovative research, driving engineering solutions, and contributing to both academic and practical advancements in the field.

What are some of the common challenges faced by PhD civil engineering professionals in balancing research and project deadlines?

PhD Civil Engineering professionals often juggle multiple responsibilities, including conducting original research, publishing papers, and managing or contributing to large-scale engineering projects. Balancing these demands can be challenging, as research deadlines may conflict with client-driven project timelines or teaching commitments. Effective time management, clear communication with supervisors and team members, and setting realistic goals are essential to navigate these pressures successfully. Many professionals find that collaborating closely with both academic and industry partners helps streamline workflows and maintain progress across all areas.

What is the difference between Phd Civil Engineering vs Civil Engineering Technician?

AspectPhd Civil EngineeringCivil Engineering Technician
EducationDoctoral degree (PhD)Associate's or bachelor's degree
Work EnvironmentResearch, academia, advanced consultingFieldwork, construction sites, technical support
CertificationsTypically none required, but may include research grantsEngineer-in-Training (EIT), certifications vary
Job FocusResearch, advanced analysis, teachingTechnical support, site supervision, drafting

The main difference between Phd Civil Engineering and Civil Engineering Technician lies in education, work focus, and environment. A PhD is research-oriented and suited for academia or advanced consulting, while a Civil Engineering Technician provides technical support on construction sites and in fieldwork. Both roles are essential in the civil engineering industry but serve different career paths and responsibilities.

Is it worth getting a PhD in civil engineering?

A PhD in civil engineering prepares individuals for advanced research, academia, and specialized roles in infrastructure, environmental, or structural engineering. It can lead to higher-level positions and increased earning potential but requires significant time and commitment, often involving research, publications, and teaching experience.

What can I do with a PhD in civil engineering?

A PhD in civil engineering prepares individuals for advanced research, teaching at the university level, and leadership roles in infrastructure design, construction, and project management. Graduates often work in academia, government agencies, or private consulting firms, utilizing skills in data analysis, modeling, and technical problem-solving.

What are popular job titles related to Phd Civil Engineering jobs?

For Phd Civil Engineering jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Phd Civil Engineering job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,674 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Professional Engineer, Civil Engineering

Waltham, MA

Simpson Gumpertz & Heger
Civil Engineering Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Simpson Gumpertz & Hegerexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Manage complex civil engineering projects by supervising work, evaluating results, and preparing reports with minimal assistance.

  • Collaborate with clients, project teams, and external stakeholders to develop proposals, lead technical discussions, and build relationships.

  • Perform design, analysis, and investigations related to land development, drainage, utilities, flood mitigation, and site improvement projects.

Job description

The Position:

This Civil Engineering position will be part of our multi-disciplinary team providing a wide array of engineering services. These services include land development, site improvement, adaptive reuse renovations, drainage and utility layouts, and much more. Typical project work includes:

  • Collaborating on multi-disciplinary projects such as slope and shoreline stabilization, retaining wall systems, foundation drainage systems, sub-slab dewatering systems, floodproofing, and plaza drainage systems.   
  • Investigating failures and performance issues of civil engineering systems.
  • Designing layout, grading, and drainage for land development and site improvement projects. 
  • Performing due-diligence and risk assessment analyses for land development projects.
  • Applying sustainable development concepts, including urban recharge.
  • Evaluating and mitigating flood exposure.
  • Performing utility and drainage investigations and design.
  • Performing hydrologic and hydraulic analysis.
  • Collaborating with architects, engineers, and landscape architects for plaza reconstruction.
  • Evaluating accessibility and developing appropriate measures for design or rehabilitation.
  • Analyzing and designing flexible and rigid pavements.
  • Evaluating and designing pump systems.
  • Performing data analytics with Civil3D and other software.
  • Observing field operations and supporting the implementation of SGH's design solutions.

Job Responsibilities:

This Civil Engineering position responsibilities will be generally consistent with ASCE Grade IV and will include: 

  • Preparing proposals, including budgeting and personnel requirements.
  • Planning work for approval by your supervisor.
  • Conducting assignments requiring only general guidance on the approach to solving unusual problems.
  • Managing a complex project or part of a project with responsibility for supervising pertinent work, evaluating results, and preparing reports with minimal assistance.
  • Delegating tasks using a coaching relationship for supervising the technical work of project staff.
  • Managing direct client contact within existing work while building and nurturing relationships with external project team members.
  • Actively contributing to internal technical training.
  • Drafting complex letters, formal reports, letter reports, specifications, and proposals with minimal supervisor guidance.
  • Leading technical and/or project discussions with clients and external project teams.

What You'll Need:

  • 5+ years of relevant civil engineering experience or equivalent experience in a related field. Will consider more experienced applicants for Senior Consulting Engineer roles. 
  • Professional licensure required.
  • MS or PhD with a concentration in Civil Engineering from an ABET- accredited university, or desire to obtain an MS within 4 years of employment at SGH using the tuition reimbursement program. 
  • Affiliation with industry organizations such as the American Society of Civil Engineers or other active civil organization, including working on committees, presentations, or other active participation.
  • Demonstrated advanced technical knowledge within your area of technical expertise.
  • Ability to integrate the work of several technical experts into an effective solution.
  • Prior exposure to similar project types and awareness of related outside technical resources.
  • Skill in personal time management and project scope management.
  • Ability to identify and manage changes in scope.
  • Expertise in computer analysis software (e.g. XPStorm or XPSWMM, Civil3d, AutoCAD, AutoTurn, HydroCAD, etc.)
  • Willingness to travel to out-of-state project sites on occasion and ability to travel to remote job sites not accessible by public transportation.
  • Valid driver's license and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report.

Apply