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Trainee Civil Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Collaborates with the civil project manager and the engineering manager to ensure site QA * Reviews and approves contractor schedules and planning baseline and ensure construction progress on the ...

PRINCIPAL ENGINEER

Lancaster, NH · On-site

$40.70 - $55.88/hr

Candidates hired at a Trainee Status must meet minimum qualifications within one (1) year of hire ... Four years of experience in civil engineering post Professional Engineer licensure. OR Education

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Trainee Civil Engineer information

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$34K

$71.4K

$108K

How much do trainee civil engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee civil engineer in the United States is $71,360.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $73,000.00 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.
More about Trainee Civil Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Civil Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Trainee 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 Trainee Civil Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Civil Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee Civil Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,360 per year, or $34.3 per hour.
Assistant Engineer - Civil Level I/II

Assistant Engineer - Civil Level I/II

Sacramento County, CA

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$84K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 2 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform civil engineering work related to the design, surveying, testing of materials, and construction of public works projects.

  • Assist experienced engineers and provide technical direction to subordinate engineering and paraprofessional engineering personnel engaged in design and construction work.

  • Direct routine office or field projects of average difficulty to completion under general supervision.


Sacramento County rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 663 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary : $84,689.28 - $130,040.64 Annually
Location : Sacramento, CA
Job Type: Permanent Full-Time
Job Number: 27710-F
Department: County Wide
Opening Date: 12/04/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
The Position
This is a continuous filing exam. The next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on:
1/5/2026, 4/6/26, 7/6/26, 10/5/26, 1/4/27
Level I - $7,057.44 - $7,781.25/month
Level II - $8,491.17 - $10,836.72/month

The Assistant Engineer - Civil Level I/II are responsible for a variety of civil engineering work in connection with the design, surveying, testing of materials and construction of public works projects. Public works projects include, but are not limited to roads and bridges; traffic control system design; drainage, water and wastewater collection, distribution and treatment; airports; new building construction and remodels; and other structures and projects.
Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level I) is the trainee level class in the professional civil engineering series. Incumbents perform field and office assignments of a less complex nature in connection with the planning, design, construction and maintenance of a wide variety of civil engineering projects. Incumbents are expected to demonstrate increased proficiency during the training period, and, upon completion thereof, promote to the Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level II). Incumbents are gradually given more difficult and responsible assignments and may assist experienced engineers in charge of more difficult civil engineering projects.
Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level II) is the journey level class in the professional civil engineering series. Under general supervision, incumbents are responsible for routine office or field projects of average difficulty and are expected to direct them to completion. Incumbents assigned to Level II generally have, in addition to meeting the minimum qualifications for the class, at least one year of paraprofessional engineering experience equivalent to one of the following classes in Sacramento County service: an Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level I), Senior Engineering Technician or higher. A Master's Degree in Civil Engineering may be substituted for the experience. An Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level II) may serve as a resident engineer on smaller, less complex construction projects. Civil engineering work of this type is generally supervised and reviewed by positions in the next higher class, Associate Civil Engineer, which is assigned the function of squad or project leader. Assistant Engineers - Civil (Level II) have no supervisory responsibility, but may provide technical direction to subordinate engineering and paraprofessional engineering personnel engaged in design and construction of such work.
The duties, knowledge and abilities of the Level I and the Level II are the same except the work is originally done under close supervision; as experience is gained, greater independence of action is increased and less detailed supervision is received until the incumbent is functioning at the first working level.
Examples of Knowledge and Abilities
Knowledge of
  • Principles of physics and mathematics used in civil engineering and their application to engineering problems
  • Topographic and construction surveying, stress analysis, mechanics and properties of materials
  • Common methods and equipment in engineering construction and of inspection methods used in reviewing such work
  • Real property descriptions
  • Hydraulics and pumps
  • Civil engineering design and drafting methods and equipment
Ability to
  • Make accurate computations and neat and accurate field notes
  • Prepare reports
  • Maintain effective working relationships with fellow workers and the public

Employment Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Either: 1. Graduation from a curriculum in civil engineering accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.
Note: To verify if your degree program is ABET accredited, visit www.abet.org
Or: 2. Current Engineer-in-Training Certificate, issued by the California State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers.
Note: If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application. Failure to submit proof of requirements may result in disqualification from the examination. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. For guidelines on submitting acceptable proof of educational requirements, please click or speak to someone in our office before the final filing or cut-off date listed in this notice.
General Qualifications
Driver's License: A valid Driver's License, Class C or higher, is required prior to appointment to this class. Failure to maintain the appropriate California Driver's License may constitute cause for termination from this class in accordance with Civil Service Rule 11.4. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Certificates/licenses: Per Health and Safety Code, Sections 18949.25 - 18949.31, incumbents may be required to obtain a certification from a recognized state, national, or international association, as determined by the County, within two years of date of hire or assignment.
Some positions in this class series require incumbents to complete one year of verifiable experience in the appropriate field and, within one year thereafter, to obtain certification from a recognized state, national, or international association, as determined by the County.
Any person currently and continuously employed by the County as an inspector, plans examiner or building official, for not less than two years prior to January 1, 1996, is exempt from the certification requirements as outlined above.
In addition, persons appointed to this class might be required to complete a minimum of 45 hours of continuing education every three years. The County may determine appropriate providers of continuing education such as community colleges or organizations affiliated with code enforcement.
Note: Failure to meet the required certification requirements may constitute cause for termination from this class in accordance with Civil Service Rule 11.4.
Physical Abilities:
  • Sit for extended periods, frequently stand and walk
  • Have manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination needed to use a variety of office equipment such as computers, telephones, calculators, copiers, and drafting equipment
  • Have corrected vision in order to perform drafting, review maps and legal descriptions, and perform other essential functions of the job
  • Occasionally walk on uneven terrain at construction sites, etc.
Individuals who are unable to pass some of the physical requirements due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Working Conditions: May be required to work in excess of 40 hours a week and/or work irregular hours, particularly during emergency situations.
Background/Criminal History: The County may access criminal history information on candidates who have accepted a conditional offer of appointment within this class consistent with the provisions of Board of Supervisors Resolution No. 82-602, Personnel Policies and Procedure, and applicable federal and state law. The County shall not consider for employment any applicant who has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor that relates to or impacts the applicant's ability to perform the job duties of this class unless it is determined that mitigating circumstances exist. For purposes of accessing criminal history information, the candidate will be fingerprinted. A subsequent arrest notification may be obtained.
Special Access: Some incumbents in this class must acquire and maintain an airport security badge allowing access to secure County airport locations.
Probationary Period
The probationary period for this classification is six (6) months.
Application and Testing Information
APPLICATION
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. All applicants must complete and submit an online County of Sacramento employment application by 5:00 PM on the posted cut-off date. Click here to apply.
County of Sacramento
Department of Personnel Services
Employment Services Division
700 H Street, Room 4667
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone (916) 874-5593; 7-1-1 California Relay Service
Email EmployOffice@Saccounty.net
Inter-Office Mail Code: 09-4667
www.SacCountyJobs.net
  • Employment applications and all documentation requested in this announcement must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date.
  • Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date.
  • Your application should highlight all relevant education, training, and experience, and clearly indicate how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position as of the cut-off date.
  • Application information must be current, concise and related to the requirements in this job announcement. You may only apply for this recruitment once. Duplicate and incomplete applications will be disqualified.
  • A resume may be included with your application, however it will not substitute for the information requested on the application.

SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE
Applicants are required to provide a full and complete response to each supplemental question. The Supplemental Questionnaire is located in the tab marked "Supplemental Questions". Please be descriptive in your response.
Note: Responses of "See Resume" or "See Application", or copy and paste of work experience are not qualifying responses and will not be considered.
  • Supplemental Questionnaires must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date.
  • The supplemental questions are designed to elicit specific information regarding a candidate's experience, education, and training. Responses should be consistent with the information on your application and are subject to verification.
  • Please provide place of employment, pertinent dates, and concise, descriptive and detailed information for each question.
  • If a job included responsibilities applicable to several questions, separate the different functions of the job to answer all the questions completely.
  • Resumes or referral to the application or other questionnaire responses will not be accepted in lieu of completing each question.
  • If you have no experience, write "no experience" for the appropriate question.
  • For many individuals, it is more efficient to develop responses to the supplemental questions in a word processing document and then paste them into the final document to be submitted. Changes or corrections to your Supplemental Questionnaire cannot be made once your application packet has been submitted.
  • If the Supplemental Questionnaire is used in the Formula Rate exam, failure to complete all of the questions or incomplete responses will result in a lower score. While scoring the Supplemental Questionnaire, the candidate's application and/or attachments will not be reviewed, therefore, a candidate's responses to the questions should be accurate, thorough, detailed, and complete.

FORMULA RATE EXAMINATION (Weighted 100%)
All candidates meeting the minimum qualifications by the cut-off date will have their Supplemental Questionnaire scored in the Formula Rate Examination.
This examination will evaluate the relevance, level, recency, progression and quality of candidate's education, training and experience. The candidate's application or other materials will not be included in this examination. Therefore, the candidate's responses to the supplemental questionnaire should be thorough, detailed and complete. The score from the Formula Rate Examination will determine the ranking on the eligible/employment list for this job.
All candidates competing in the testing process will receive written notice of their examination results by email. Notices can also be accessed in their governmentjobs.com inbox. Applicants achieving a passing score will be placed on the eligible list in rank order. The rank is determined by the test score attained from the examination.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Click for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
For information regarding County jobs:
www.saccountyjobs.net
Sacramento County is about enriching communities to thrive. We strive to create inclusive workplaces that reflect the communities we serve. We value and celebrate the unique perspectives, backgrounds, abilities, and diverse dimensions of our employees and residents. Through transparency, courage, innovation, and trust we are committed to advance equity and transformational change.
We are a proud equal opportunity employer. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any phase of the hiring process, please contact our Disability Compliance Office at or 916-874-7642, CA Relay 711. For more information, visit:
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
As an employee of the County of Sacramento, there will be a variety of benefits available to you. These benefits currently include: health, dental and life insurance; flexible

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