How much does a Civil Engineer make?
A Civil Engineer plays a key role in designing and overseeing public works. They work on projects like roads, bridges, and buildings. The average yearly salary for a Civil Engineer is around $94,946. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
Civil Engineers often start with a lower salary. As they gain experience, their salary can increase. Here is a look at the salary distribution for Civil Engineers:
- 10% earn less than $54,091.
- 25% earn between $54,091 and $65,182.
- 50% earn between $65,182 and $98,455.
- 75% earn between $98,455 and $131,727.
- 90% earn less than $142,818.
What are the highest paying cities for a Civil Engineer?

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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $141,478
In Stockton, engineers work on infrastructure projects for the city. Companies like AECOM and HNTB offer opportunities for growth.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $134,458
Modesto provides a range of projects for civil engineers. Local firms like URS Corporation focus on water and transportation systems.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $126,075
Fresno offers diverse engineering projects. Engineers here work with companies like Clark Construction Group on large-scale developments.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $124,925
San Jose is a hub for tech and infrastructure. Engineers collaborate with firms like Bechtel on innovative projects.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $119,912
San Francisco presents a dynamic environment for civil engineers. Companies like Arup and WSP Global work on iconic projects.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $118,388
Bakersfield offers opportunities in water management and infrastructure. Engineers work with firms like HDR and AECOM.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $118,113
Los Angeles provides a variety of projects for civil engineers. Companies like Parsons and AECOM focus on urban development.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $115,897
Santa Rosa offers a mix of projects in infrastructure and environmental engineering. Engineers work with firms like HNTB and AECOM.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $110,753
Washington, DC, offers federal and local projects. Engineers work with firms like CH2M and AECOM on significant infrastructure.
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Beaumont, TX
Average Salary: $109,792
Beaumont provides opportunities for civil engineers in oil and gas infrastructure. Companies like Fluor and KBR offer diverse projects.
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What are the best companies a Civil Engineer can work for?

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Gedeon GRC Consulting
Average Salary: $169,113
Gedeon GRC Consulting offers Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on infrastructure projects. They operate in various locations, including California, Texas, and Florida.
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Techno Consult Inc.
Average Salary: $166,472
Techno Consult Inc. provides Civil Engineer positions with a strong emphasis on sustainable design. They work in cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
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Toole Design Group
Average Salary: $147,341
Toole Design Group offers Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on transportation and urban planning. They operate in cities such as San Francisco, Seattle, and Denver.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $146,071
Piper Companies provides Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on water resources and environmental engineering. They work in locations like Atlanta, Miami, and Boston.
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City of Oxnard
Average Salary: $145,139
The City of Oxnard offers Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on public infrastructure. They operate in Oxnard, California.
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Cordoba Corporation
Average Salary: $144,773
Cordoba Corporation provides Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on construction management. They work in cities like Phoenix, Las Vegas, and San Diego.
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CONSOR Engineers
Average Salary: $143,768
CONSOR Engineers offers Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on structural and geotechnical engineering. They operate in cities such as Minneapolis, Portland, and Salt Lake City.
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Interwest Consulting Group
Average Salary: $141,875
Interwest Consulting Group provides Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on land development and environmental consulting. They work in cities like Sacramento, Las Vegas, and San Francisco.
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BB&E
Average Salary: $141,228
BB&E offers Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on water and wastewater systems. They operate in cities like Denver, Salt Lake City, and Phoenix.
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Gannett Fleming
Average Salary: $137,481
Gannett Fleming provides Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on transportation and infrastructure. They work in various locations, including Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and Charlotte.
How to earn more as a Civil Engineer?
Civil engineers can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific areas, they can enhance their skills and marketability. This can lead to higher-paying positions and more opportunities. Building a strong professional network also plays a key role in career advancement. Attending industry events and joining professional organizations can open doors to better job offers.
Here are some factors that can help civil engineers earn more:
- Specialization: Gaining expertise in a niche area can make a civil engineer more valuable. Specializations like geotechnical or structural engineering often command higher salaries.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the Professional Engineer (PE) license can boost earning potential. These credentials show a higher level of competence and dedication.
- Experience: More years of experience generally lead to higher pay. Experienced engineers often have a better understanding of complex projects and can take on more responsibility.
- Education: Pursuing advanced degrees like a Master’s or Ph.D. can open up higher-paying roles. Advanced education can also lead to opportunities in research and academia.
- Location: Working in areas with a high demand for civil engineers can result in higher salaries. Major cities and regions with significant infrastructure projects often offer better pay.