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Research Civil Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Civil Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

The Civil Engineers will provide engineering and project support for site and facility security ... Conduct research related to project requirements, including: * Prepare summaries, reports, and ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

The Civil Engineers will provide engineering and project support for site and facility security ... Conduct research related to project requirements, including: * Prepare summaries, reports, and ...

New

Leidos has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Civil Engineer to support highly specialized ... Demonstrated ability to research, assess, and synthesize diverse intelligence and technical sources ...

Civil engineering at Nightwing requires the application of building engineering and construction ... You will help develop detailed solutions through research, collaboration, testing, and guiding ...

Civil engineering at Nightwing requires the application of building engineering and construction ... You will help develop detailed solutions through research, collaboration, testing, and guiding ...

Showing results 21-40

Research Civil Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$43K

$93.6K

$139.3K

How much do research civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for research civil engineer in Washington is $93,636.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $111,600.00 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 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 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 cities in Washington are hiring for Research Civil Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Research Civil Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Research Civil Engineer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,636 per year, or $45 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Short Description
Bowman has an opportunity for a Civil Engineer II to join our team in Fairfax, VA.
At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That's why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.
Purpose
Evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria on moderately complex projects.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Direction
  • Receive general instruction on key objectives for execution. Receive direction as needed, and especially complex assignments, modified techniques, and new approaches on assignments with conflicting criteria. Work is completed using advanced engineering techniques and design principles and is reviewed by more senior staff to ensure application of sound professional judgement. Review work produced by junior staff for quality assurance.

At the Operational and Company Level
  • Work with senior level engineers, clients and agencies, subcontractors, and design teams on moderately complex engineering project issues.

Do the Work
  • Conceptualize the initial civil design approach for assigned phases of large land/site development.
  • Evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria on moderately complex projects.
  • Plan, schedule, conduct, and/or coordinate detailed phases of assigned project work.
  • Complete civil engineering work for assigned phases of large land/site development.
  • Complete design work and calculations using computer-aided software.
  • Make design recommendations, adaptations, and modifications.
  • Assist with the development of plans, specifications, and reports.
  • Provide technical assistance in the resolution of design problems that may include performing field investigation or inspections, detailed design work and calculations, and detailed checking of design computations done by others, or general coordination of specific design aspects into a project.
  • Prepare reports and correspondence concerning the direction of assigned projects.
  • Work closely with other disciplines on multi-discipline projects.
  • Review plans and prepare or review technical specifications, contract documents, and estimates.

Success Metrics and Competencies
  • Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
  • Ability to effectively participate as part of a project team.
  • High level of motivation and a problem-solving attitude.
  • Strong sense of urgency in responding to constituents.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
  • Self-reliance and ability to operate independently with limited direction.
  • Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work and attention to detail.
  • Aspiration to grow professionally and advance within the company.
  • Ability to work effectively with internal leaders and peers, as well as external clients.
  • Commitment to becoming a "citizen" of the broader organization, breaking down barriers and silos.
  • Commitment to working in partnership with others inside and outside the organization.
  • Ability to effectively manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.
  • Data analysis and interpretation skills.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related field required at time of hire.
  • EIT certification and/or progress toward earning Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
  • Three or more (3+) years of experience in civil engineering; land/site development industry preferred.
  • Land Development engineering experience and skills; large- and small-scale drainage and BMP design preferred.
  • Experience with computer applications and civil engineering design software such as Civil3D in a professional or academic setting.
  • Proficiency with reading construction plans.
  • Knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil3D, AES, CIVILD, WSPGW, PCSWMM, StormCAD, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS preferred.
  • Proficient with Storm Drain Modeling and Rational Method Hydrologic Calculations.
  • Proficient with Open Channel & Detention Basin Modeling and Design.
  • Proficient with HEC-RAS modeling and CLOMR/LOMR applications and processing.
  • Experience researching zoning, development standards, development review processes, compliance matters, regulations, and standards.
  • Prepare reports, narratives, development applications, submittal documents, and response letters.
  • Ability to multi-task and coordinate on multiple projects, with multiple clients and sub-consultants.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Projects).

About Bowman
Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We're committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.
A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.
Salary and eligible variable compensation (if any) commensurate with experience. Range $92,000 - $118,000 and includes a comprehensive benefits package.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
  • Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
  • Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.
Physical Demands and Working Environment
  • May be eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements.
  • Primarily indoor professional office environment, which can consist of possible bright/dim light, noise, fumes, odors, and traffic.
  • Mobility around an office environment, occasional squat or kneel.
  • Mobility around a job/construction site to include walking, bending, crawling, climbing, squatting, or kneeling and wearing of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Frequent and prolonged use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
  • Occasional lifting or carrying up to 20 pounds.
  • Occasional pushing or pulling up to 20 pounds.
  • Occasional reaching outward or above shoulder.

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Job Description Disclaimer
Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.
Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you'd like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.
Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.