How much does a Civil Designer make?
Civil Designers, with their expertise in planning and overseeing construction projects, see a rewarding income that matches their skill set. On average, these professionals earn around $84,486 per year. This figure reflects their vital role in ensuring that infrastructure projects meet safety and efficiency standards.
The salary range for Civil Designers varies, starting at approximately $51,000 for those just entering the field, up to about $142,500 for the most experienced professionals. Most Civil Designers fall within a middle range, earning between $75,955 and $109,227 annually. This spread shows that with more experience and expertise, earnings can grow significantly.
Here's a closer look at the salary distribution:
- The lowest 10% earn less than $51,000.
- The next 10% earn between $51,000 and $59,318.
- About 20% earn between $59,318 and $67,636.
- Another 20% earn between $67,636 and $75,955.
- Half of all Civil Designers earn between $75,955 and $109,227.
- The top 10% earn more than $109,227.
What are the highest paying cities for a Civil Designer?
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $118,326
Rochester offers a stable environment for those in infrastructure design. Mayo Clinic and Olmsted County are prominent employers. Working here means engaging in projects that improve healthcare and community facilities.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $103,052
New Orleans provides a vibrant setting for infrastructure design. Companies like Entergy and Freeport-McMoRan are active in the area. Designers here contribute to projects that enhance the city’s resilience and beauty.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $102,940
Seattle is a hub for technology and infrastructure. Working here means collaborating with tech giants like Amazon and Microsoft. The city values innovation in urban planning and development.
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Knoxville, TN
Average Salary: $102,262
Knoxville offers a balanced lifestyle for infrastructure designers. The University of Tennessee and local government projects provide diverse opportunities. Designers here focus on sustainable and practical solutions.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $101,378
Los Angeles is a dynamic city for infrastructure design. Working with companies like AECOM and AECOM offers varied projects. Designers here help shape the city’s future with a focus on infrastructure and public spaces.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $98,366
San Antonio presents a growing market for infrastructure design. Working with local government and companies like HED and HNTB, designers here contribute to urban development and public projects.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $94,471
San Diego offers a pleasant climate and a strong economy for infrastructure design. With companies like Jacobs Engineering and AECOM, designers here work on projects that enhance the city’s infrastructure and livability.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $93,256
Boston provides a rich history and many opportunities for infrastructure design. Working with the city government and firms like WSP and AECOM, designers here focus on projects that improve public spaces and transportation.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $92,302
Chicago is a major center for infrastructure design. Working with companies like AECOM and Parsons Corporation, designers here play a key role in urban development and public infrastructure projects.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $92,097
San Francisco offers a unique blend of innovation and tradition. Working with tech firms like Apple and Google, designers here contribute to projects that enhance the city’s infrastructure and tech-driven development.
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What are the best companies a Civil Designer can work for?
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Interwest Consulting Group
Average Salary: $130,455
Interwest Consulting Group offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on sustainable infrastructure. They operate in the Western United States, providing innovative design solutions.
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AECOM
Average Salary: $126,646
AECOM is a global leader in consulting, design, and construction. They provide Civil Designer roles in many countries, with a strong emphasis on large-scale projects.
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Vestal Corporation
Average Salary: $111,625
Vestal Corporation specializes in civil engineering and construction management. They offer Civil Designer jobs across the Midwest, with a focus on infrastructure development.
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Parsons
Average Salary: $99,961
Parsons provides consulting and engineering services worldwide. They offer Civil Designer jobs in multiple locations, with an emphasis on innovative design.
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TKDA
Average Salary: $97,517
TKDA is known for its expertise in civil engineering. They offer Civil Designer positions primarily in the Southeastern United States, focusing on highway and bridge projects.
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Moody Engineering LLC
Average Salary: $95,120
Moody Engineering LLC offers Civil Designer jobs with a focus on public works and water resources. They operate across Texas and the Southwest.
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Stantec
Average Salary: $94,852
Stantec is a leading design and engineering firm. They offer Civil Designer positions across North America, with a focus on sustainable infrastructure.
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Randstad
Average Salary: $93,500
Randstad provides staffing and consulting services, including Civil Designer roles. They have offices across the United States and offer diverse opportunities.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $91,310
CyberCoders is a talent marketplace that connects job seekers with employers. They offer Civil Designer jobs in various locations, focusing on engineering roles.
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KPFF Consulting Engineers
Average Salary: $89,464
KPFF Consulting Engineers provides civil engineering services. They offer Civil Designer positions in the Pacific Northwest, with a focus on innovative design and project management.
How to earn more as a Civil Designer?
Aspiring civil designers can enhance their earning potential through various strategies. The right approach can lead to higher salary offers and better job opportunities. One key factor is gaining specialized certifications. These can cover areas like structural design or CAD software mastery. Having these skills makes a candidate more valuable.
Another important factor is gaining experience. Working on diverse projects helps build a strong portfolio. Experience shows employers a designer's ability to handle real-world challenges. Networking with industry professionals also opens doors to higher-paying jobs. Attending workshops and joining professional groups can lead to valuable connections. Lastly, staying updated with the latest design trends and technologies ensures a designer remains competitive in the job market. These trends can lead to new opportunities and higher earnings.
Here are five key factors to increase earnings as a civil designer:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Gain diverse project experience.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Stay updated with design trends.
- Continuously improve technical skills.
