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Research Civil Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DK Engineer, Corp

Civil Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Responsibilities: · Research existing site features (utilities, grading) · Review Geotechnical ... B.S. degree or higher in Civil Engineering * P.E. license in California preferred * Working ...

DK Engineer, Corp

Civil Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

Responsibilities: · Research existing site features (utilities, grading) · Review Geotechnical ... B.S. degree or higher in Civil Engineering * P.E. license in California preferred * Working ...

1 point system

Staff Civil Engineer

Brea, CA · On-site

* The Staff Civil Engineer will work on project teams to create world class designs for new projects ... Research and compile project related data as required by the project managers. Compiles studies and ...

Nasland Engineering

Civil Engineer Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Project Research * Engineering Calculations * Occasional Administrative Duties Qualifications * Civil Engineering Student (Sophomore level or above) * Computer Experience * AutoCAD Experience a plus

Nasland Engineering

Civil Engineer Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Project Research * Engineering Calculations * Occasional Administrative Duties Qualifications * Civil Engineering Student (Sophomore level or above) * Computer Experience * AutoCAD Experience a plus

Nasland Engineering

Civil Engineer Intern

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Project Research * Engineering Calculations * Occasional Administrative Duties Qualifications * Civil Engineering Student (Sophomore level or above) * Computer Experience * AutoCAD Experience a plus

DLR Group

Senior Civil Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

Independently perform civil calculations, including code research. * Prepare detailed engineering reports, narratives andjurisdiction permitting applications. * Write and review specifications.

Sanbell

Civil Engineer

Ventura, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform research to establish design parameter requirements * Participate in engineering design and ... Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field from an accredited University Required ...

City of Bakersfield

Civil Engineer III

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$114K - $138K/yr

... including research and design of engineering projects; and performs other work as required ... Develops and/or checks plans for major civil engineering and building construction projects ...

Jobtailor

Senior Civil Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$160.65 - $183.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Civil Engineer - Transportation Group STV is seeking a Senior Civil Engineer for the ... We know great candidates don't always meet every qualification, and research shows women and people ...

Sherwood Design Engineers

Civil Engineer III

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$97K - $119K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ability to research and interpret technical documents * Experience in preparing and advancing plan ... civil engineering * Design naturally and physically built structures using knowledge of biology ...

Sherwood Design Engineers

Civil Engineer III

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ability to research and interpret technical documents * Experience in preparing and advancing plan ... civil engineering * Design naturally and physically built structures using knowledge of biology ...

DLR Group

Senior Civil Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Independently perform civil calculations, including code research. * Prepare detailed engineering reports, narratives and jurisdiction permitting applications. * Write and review specifications.

City of Bakersfield, CA

Civil Engineer III

Bakersfield, CA · On-site

$114K - $138K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

... including research and design of engineering projects; and performs other work as required ... Develops and/or checks plans for major civil engineering and building construction projects ...

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All JobsResearch Civil Engineer JobsResearch Civil Engineer Jobs in California

Research Civil Engineer information

See California salary details

$37.5K

$81.6K

$121.4K

How much do research civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for research civil engineer in California is $81,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,600.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research civil engineer?

A Research Civil Engineer applies scientific principles to study, develop, and improve civil engineering materials, structures, and technologies. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and create models to solve engineering challenges. Their work often supports infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and construction efficiency. Research Civil Engineers may collaborate with universities, government agencies, or private companies to advance industry knowledge.

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

To succeed as a Research Civil Engineer, you need a solid understanding of civil engineering principles, advanced analytical skills, and typically at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil engineering or a related field. Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, MATLAB, and structural analysis tools, as well as knowledge of relevant standards and certifications like a Professional Engineer (PE) license, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset help you excel in interdisciplinary research environments. These skills are vital for accurately designing experiments, interpreting data, and presenting findings that drive innovation and improvements in civil engineering practices.

What does a research civil engineer do?

A research civil engineer conducts studies and experiments to develop new materials, methods, and technologies for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and water systems. They analyze data, create models, and collaborate with other engineers to improve safety, sustainability, and efficiency in civil engineering practices.

What types of projects and research topics might I work on as a research civil engineer?

As a Research Civil Engineer, your projects may involve studying new materials, developing sustainable construction methods, improving infrastructure resilience, or analyzing structural performance under various conditions. You could work on government-funded research, collaborate with universities, or partner with private industry stakeholders on cutting-edge innovations. Daily tasks often include conducting experiments, writing technical reports, and presenting findings to both engineering teams and non-technical stakeholders. This role offers opportunities to contribute to advancements in transportation, water resources, structural systems, and environmental engineering, providing a diverse and intellectually stimulating work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Research Civil Engineer jobs in California?

For Research Civil Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Research Civil Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Research Civil Engineer jobs in California are:

Research Civil Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Civil Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,591 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Civil Engineer

DK Engineer, Corp

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Role Description

This is a full-time on-site role for a Civil Project Engineer at DK Engineer, Corp. Civil Engineers are responsible for the design of Civil plans including erosion control (SWPPP), grading and drainage, wet utilities (water, sewer, storm drain), stormwater treatment (LID and WQMP), street improvement plans, and preparation of various technical reports. Engineers are also responsible for project coordination with Architect and other Design Engineers, Public jurisdictions (plan check and permitting), and Contractors (construction administration). Engineers are responsible for the technical content and quality control on specific projects.

Responsibilities:

· Research existing site features (utilities, grading)

· Review Geotechnical report for civil related items of interest

· Research city records for existing utility info

· Site visits as needed

· Small grading and drainage design tasks

· Obtain civil related building clearances for projects in plan check

· Work with consultant design team to coordinate overall design plans

· Use hydraulic modeling program to size onsite utility lines

· Sit in on virtual team meetings with clients/design team

· Responsible for the technical content and quality control on specific projects.

Requirements:

  • At least 1-2 relevant experience in site planning, storm drainage water quality and quantity control, hydrology, grading, utility, roadways, parking facilities, and all other aspects of site development for a wide variety of project types.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, ability to function effectively in teamwork environment.
  • Proven time management skills and ability to manage multiple active projects concurrently
  • B.S. degree or higher in Civil Engineering
  • P.E. license in California preferred
  • Working knowledge of codes, regulations, and standards applicable to the design and construction of major site development projects in California
  • Working knowledge of typical computer software programs used for civil engineering design (BlueBeam, AutoCAD, Hydrology and Hydraulic, WaterCAD, Flowmaster, etc.), Civil3D experience is a plus. our start-up entrepreneurial culture. If you are looking for a fun, non-corporate atmosphere where the focus is truly on developing the best engineers in the industry and delivering exceptional client service, DKE is the firm for you. As part of the DKE team, you will have a voice in how we continue to grow in this exciting market.

DKE offers a fun and dynamic work environment, competitive benefits including 401K matching, health benefits, life insurance, comp time, generous cash bonuses, flexible working, among others.

*DKE is an equal opportunity employer

Company Description

About the Firm:

DK Engineer, Corp (DKE) is a boutique civil engineering consulting firm that provides design and construction administration services for construction projects throughout Southern California. DKE specializes in urban infill and land development projects offering a wide range of civil engineering design services for multi-family residential, commercial, hospitality, and mixed-use sectors. With over 50 years of combined experience, our team produces exceptional work, and strives to exceed our clients’ expectations.

We pride ourselves in our start-up entrepreneurial culture. If you are looking for a fun, non-corporate atmosphere where the focus is truly on developing the best engineers in the industry and delivering exceptional client service, DKE is the firm for you. As part of the DKE team, you will have a voice in how we continue to grow in this exciting market. DKE offers competitive benefits including 401K matching, health benefits, life insurance and generous cash bonuses among others.