How much does a Civil Designer make?
A Civil Designer plays a key role in planning and creating infrastructure projects. They work on roads, bridges, and buildings. Their work ensures safety and efficiency. The average yearly salary for a Civil Designer is around $84,750. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
Civil Designers often start with a lower salary. As they gain experience, their salary increases. Here are some salary ranges for different levels of experience:
- Entry-level: $53,000
- Mid-level: $77,545
- Senior-level: $118,455
- Principal-level: $143,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Civil Designer?

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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $119,837
In Rochester, MN, professionals find rewarding opportunities in civil design. The city's focus on infrastructure and development creates a steady demand for skilled designers. Companies like Mayo Clinic and Olmsted County are known for their projects.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $101,694
Seattle, WA, offers a vibrant environment for civil designers. The city's commitment to sustainability and innovation drives the need for skilled professionals. Major employers like Seattle Public Utilities and King County provide exciting projects.
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Knoxville, TN
Average Salary: $99,564
Knoxville, TN, is a great place for civil designers to work. The city's growing infrastructure projects offer many opportunities. Companies like the City of Knoxville and the University of Tennessee are prominent employers.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $99,309
New Orleans, LA, provides a unique setting for civil designers. The city's need for flood protection and urban renewal creates many job opportunities. Companies like the Orleans Public Works Department and Entergy New Orleans are key employers.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $98,588
Los Angeles, CA, offers a diverse range of projects for civil designers. The city's large-scale infrastructure needs create many opportunities. Major companies like the City of Los Angeles and AECOM provide exciting work.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $96,174
San Antonio, TX, is a growing city with many opportunities for civil designers. The city's focus on development and infrastructure creates a steady demand for skilled professionals. Companies like the City of San Antonio and Zachry Group are prominent employers.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $95,075
Boston, MA, offers a rich environment for civil designers. The city's historic and modern infrastructure projects provide many opportunities. Companies like the City of Boston and AECOM are known for their projects.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $94,873
San Diego, CA, provides a dynamic setting for civil designers. The city's focus on coastal and urban development creates many job opportunities. Companies like the City of San Diego and AECOM are key employers.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $92,248
Houston, TX, offers a vibrant environment for civil designers. The city's large-scale infrastructure projects provide many opportunities. Companies like the City of Houston and Zachry Group are prominent employers.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $91,689
Chicago, IL, provides a dynamic setting for civil designers. The city's focus on infrastructure and urban renewal creates many job opportunities. Companies like the City of Chicago and AECOM are key employers.
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What are the best companies a Civil Designer can work for?

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Burns & McDonnell
Average Salary: $154,446
Burns & McDonnell offers rewarding Civil Designer jobs. They work on projects across the U.S. and internationally. Their projects include infrastructure, buildings, and industrial facilities.
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Fluor Corp.
Average Salary: $147,529
Fluor Corp. provides top-tier Civil Designer positions. They operate in many countries, focusing on energy, government, and infrastructure projects. They value innovation and teamwork.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $127,319
AECOM offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on sustainability. They work on projects worldwide, including transportation, water, and buildings. They emphasize professional growth and development.
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Interwest Consulting Group
Average Salary: $126,250
Interwest Consulting Group provides Civil Designer roles with a focus on the western U.S. They work on infrastructure and environmental projects. They value a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
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Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
Average Salary: $112,809
Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on transportation and infrastructure. They operate across the U.S. They value teamwork and innovation.
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Vestal Corporation
Average Salary: $112,188
Vestal Corporation offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on infrastructure and environmental projects. They operate across the U.S. They value professional development and a positive work culture.
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TKDA
Average Salary: $99,766
TKDA offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on infrastructure and transportation projects. They operate in the U.S. They value innovation and teamwork.
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Randstad
Average Salary: $99,292
Randstad offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on infrastructure and construction projects. They operate worldwide. They value professional growth and development.
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gpac
Average Salary: $93,464
gpac offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on infrastructure and construction projects. They operate across the U.S. They value teamwork and a positive work environment.
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HDR
Average Salary: $92,242
HDR offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on infrastructure and environmental projects. They operate worldwide. They value innovation and professional development.
How to earn more as a Civil Designer?
A Civil Designer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized skills and certifications can open up higher-paying job opportunities. For instance, obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license can significantly boost earning potential. Networking with industry professionals and joining relevant associations can also lead to better job opportunities and salary increases.
Experience and a strong portfolio of completed projects can make a Civil Designer more attractive to employers. Taking on challenging projects and demonstrating the ability to manage complex tasks can lead to higher-paying positions. Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest industry trends and technologies can also enhance a Civil Designer's value in the job market. Seeking out mentorship and feedback from experienced professionals can provide valuable insights and help improve skills.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Civil Designer:
- Specialized Skills and Certifications: Obtain relevant certifications and develop advanced skills.
- Networking: Connect with industry professionals and join associations.
- Experience and Portfolio: Build a strong portfolio of completed projects.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated with industry trends and technologies.
- Mentorship: Seek guidance from experienced professionals.



