How much does a Civil Engineer make?
Civil engineers work on designing and building structures like roads, bridges, and buildings. They play a crucial role in many public and private projects. On average, a civil engineer can earn around $99,513 a year. This means that their earnings can vary based on their experience and location.
To break it down, here are the salary ranges civil engineers can expect:
- 10% earn around $41,000 or less
- 10% earn about $190,000 or more
- The majority, around 50%, earn between $68,000 and $122,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Civil Engineer?

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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $144,773
In Bakersfield, civil engineers work on large infrastructure projects, ensuring roads and public spaces meet safety standards. Companies like AECOM and Fluor Corporation offer opportunities in this growing city.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $137,741
Salinas offers a chance to contribute to sustainable farming infrastructure. Engineers here focus on irrigation systems and water management. Firms like DPR Construction provide career opportunities.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $137,651
Stockton is home to key transportation projects. Civil engineers here work on bridges and roadways to support the community. Local firms such as URS Corporation are looking for skilled engineers.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $137,127
Modesto offers a mix of residential and commercial projects. Engineers here build homes and public buildings. Companies like Bechtel Corporation look for professionals to join their teams.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $130,457
In San Francisco, civil engineers tackle urban challenges. They design public transit and green spaces. Major firms like Arup and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill are hiring.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $129,961
Los Angeles provides a dynamic environment for civil engineers. They work on extensive freeways and public buildings. Companies such as AECOM and Clark Construction Group are active in the area.
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Tallahassee, FL
Average Salary: $125,376
Tallahassee offers projects that blend city planning and infrastructure. Engineers here develop roads and public facilities. Firms like GHD and WSP Global look for talented engineers.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $125,164
Riverside has many opportunities for civil engineers. They focus on water systems and parks. Companies like Jacobs Engineering and URS Corporation provide career paths.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $124,577
San Jose offers a tech-driven approach to civil engineering. Engineers work on smart infrastructure and transportation. Firms such as Tetra Tech and AECOM are looking for experts.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $123,194
Jacksonville provides diverse civil engineering projects. Engineers here work on waterfront developments and transportation. Companies like Parsons Corporation and AECOM are hiring.
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What are the best companies a Civil Engineer can work for?

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Core States Group
Average Salary: $197,969
Core States Group offers exciting Civil Engineer jobs with strong career growth. They operate across several states, including Texas, California, and Florida. Their projects range from infrastructure to environmental engineering.
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ATLAS TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS/ATC
Average Salary: $195,958
ATLAS TECHNICAL CONSULTANTS/ATC is a top employer for Civil Engineers. They work on large-scale projects nationwide. Locations include New York, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. They focus on water resources, transportation, and construction management.
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Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Average Salary: $179,250
Hewlett Packard Enterprise provides Civil Engineers with competitive salaries and benefits. They operate in major cities like San Francisco, Austin, and Seattle. Their projects involve smart infrastructure and sustainable technologies.
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BKF Engineers
Average Salary: $167,044
BKF Engineers is known for its Civil Engineer opportunities. They have offices in Colorado and Washington. They work on water supply, wastewater, and environmental engineering projects. The company offers a collaborative work environment.
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Techno Consult
Average Salary: $160,781
Techno Consult values Civil Engineers and offers rewarding positions. They are based in Virginia and California. Their projects focus on transportation, land development, and environmental engineering. They emphasize professional growth.
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McMillen
Average Salary: $160,103
McMillen is a leader in Civil Engineering jobs. They have offices in Michigan and Ohio. Their work includes infrastructure, transportation, and land development. They offer a dynamic work environment with many growth opportunities.
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Toole Design Group
Average Salary: $155,350
Toole Design Group offers Civil Engineer jobs with excellent pay and benefits. They operate in California, Nevada, and Oregon. Their projects cover water resources, environmental, and construction engineering. They value innovation and teamwork.
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RQ Construction, LLC
Average Salary: $150,329
RQ Construction, LLC provides Civil Engineers with competitive salaries and benefits. They work on infrastructure projects in Texas and New Mexico. They focus on highways, bridges, and water systems. The company promotes a positive work culture.
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Garg Consulting Services, Inc.
Average Salary: $149,139
Garg Consulting Services, Inc. offers Civil Engineer positions with good compensation. They have offices in New Jersey and New York. Their projects include water resources, environmental, and construction engineering. They emphasize professional development.
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TYLin
Average Salary: $147,153
TYLin provides Civil Engineer jobs with competitive salaries and benefits. They operate in California, Florida, and Texas. Their work includes transportation, environmental, and structural engineering. They offer a supportive and inclusive work environment.
How to earn more as a Civil Engineer?
As a Civil Engineer, there are several paths to increasing your earnings. Focusing on these areas can help boost your salary and advance your career. Begin by gaining specialized skills that are in demand. Companies often pay more for expertise in areas like sustainable design or construction management. Pursuing certifications in these fields can make you more valuable.
Experience matters significantly in this profession. Each project you complete adds to your portfolio, making you more attractive to employers. Seeking roles that offer diverse experiences can also help. Working in different regions or on various types of projects can increase your marketability. Networking with industry professionals can open doors to higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can expand your professional circle. Finally, consider pursuing a master's degree. Advanced degrees often lead to higher-paying positions. Civil Engineers with a master’s degree typically have more career options and earn more.
Investing in these factors can lead to higher earnings and more job satisfaction. Below are five key strategies:
- Gain specialized skills and certifications.
- Accumulate diverse experience through various projects and regions.
- Network with industry professionals and join organizations.
- Pursue advanced degrees to open more career opportunities.
- Continuously seek out training and professional development.



