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Trainee Civil Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Trainee Civil Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$29.6K

$62.2K

$94.1K

How much do trainee civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee civil engineer in Michigan is $62,197.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,900.00 and $63,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Civil Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Civil Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of civil engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a relevant degree or ongoing study. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and basic knowledge of project management tools is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate on projects and learn from experienced engineers. These skills are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and high-quality infrastructure development while progressing in your engineering career.

What are trainee civil engineers?

Trainee civil engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in the planning, design, and management of construction projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. They work under the supervision of experienced engineers to gain practical experience and develop their technical skills. Their tasks often include site visits, preparing reports, using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and ensuring that projects comply with regulations. This role serves as a foundation for future advancement in the civil engineering field.

What is the difference between Trainee Civil Engineer vs Civil Engineer?

AspectTrainee Civil EngineerCivil Engineer
QualificationsTypically a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related fieldBachelor's degree; often a professional engineering license or certification
Work EnvironmentOn-site supervision, assisting senior engineers, learning project processesDesign, planning, project management, site supervision
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with calculations, site visits, documentationDesign development, project oversight, technical decision-making

The main difference is experience level: Trainee Civil Engineers are in training, focusing on learning and assisting, while Civil Engineers are fully qualified professionals responsible for project execution and decision-making.

What types of projects do Trainee Civil Engineers typically work on and how do they contribute to these projects?

As a Trainee Civil Engineer, you will often be involved in a variety of infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water management systems. Your contributions may include assisting with site surveys, preparing technical drawings, supporting senior engineers in project planning, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations. You will also collaborate closely with architects, contractors, and other engineers, gaining valuable hands-on experience and insight into the full project lifecycle. This exposure helps build both your technical skills and your understanding of multidisciplinary teamwork—crucial for career progression in civil engineering.
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Civil Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Trainee Civil Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Trainee Civil Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Trainee Civil Engineer jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Trainee Civil Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Trainee Civil Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,197 per year, or $29.9 per hour.
Chrysler Institute of Engineering (CIE) Training Program (2027)

Chrysler Institute of Engineering (CIE) Training Program (2027)

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Stellantis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 44 rated automakers


Job description

The Chrysler Institute of Engineering (CIE) Program is highly selective with a limited number of openings each year. Only the best and brightest college graduates are chosen. Trainees should embody strong work ethic while maintaining a sense of purpose and modesty throughout the program.
During the first two and a half years of work, participants in the CIE Program will receive challenging rotational assignments. The program begins quickly to build skills and knowledge through a series of work assignments. In addition, the variety of assignments gives trainees an overall perspective of what working at Stellantis is all about. It helps identify what job would properly balance the trainee's career goals and the needs of the corporation. Each CIE candidate completes five, six-month rotations within the corporation getting the chance to experience multiple areas.
Participants in the program with a Bachelor's degree, must also pursue a Master's degree in Electrical, Computer, Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering. Program participants will be paid half day per class, per week to allow them to complete their master's degree while completing their Product Development CIE Trainee work assignments. With an average course load of two classes per term, the trainee should earn their master's degree at the same time they complete the 30-month CIE Program. As an added benefit, tuition is paid in full.
Participants in the program with a Master's degree will participate in the rotational portion of the program but will not be required to pursue a Master's degree.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Undergraduate graduation or graduate degree acquired between December 2025 through June 2027
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering from an ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) accredited program; other Engineering degrees from an ABET accredited university programs (Aerospace/Aeronautical, Agricultural, Biomedical/Biomechanical/Bioengineering, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Computer Science, Materials, Mechatronics, Metallurgical or related field) will be considered if the candidate exhibits the desired characteristics to fill an opening within the CIE program
  • 3.0 or higher GPA (based on a 4.0 scale)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Previous internship with an automotive manufacturer
  • Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
  • Excellent organization skills
  • Exhibit strong leadership skills

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