How much does a Civil Engineer make?
Civil engineers play a key role in designing and overseeing construction projects. They earn a solid income, with an average yearly salary of $95,177. This profession offers a range of salaries, depending on experience and location. For those just starting, salaries can be around $43,000. As experience grows, so does the salary. Experienced civil engineers can earn up to $165,345 a year.
The salary distribution shows a clear progression. About 4.04% of civil engineers earn less than $43,000. As engineers gain more experience, the percentage of those earning higher salaries increases. For example, 13.77% earn between $65,000 and $76,000. The highest earners, making over $131,000, make up 3.98% of the workforce. This data highlights the potential for growth in this field. With dedication and experience, civil engineers can see significant salary increases.
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 and surrounding areas. Companies like AECOM and HNTB offer opportunities to contribute to local development.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $136,716
Modesto provides a range of projects for civil engineers, focusing on urban planning and transportation. Local firms such as Toole Design Group offer chances to make a significant impact.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $125,288
Fresno is a growing city with many infrastructure projects. Engineers here can work with companies like Clark Construction Group on large-scale developments.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $124,813
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for engineers, with tech companies and infrastructure projects. Firms like Bechtel provide opportunities for those looking to innovate.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $123,105
Bakersfield has a strong need for civil engineers to work on water management and transportation projects. Local firms like HDR Inc. offer roles in these areas.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $120,005
San Francisco provides a vibrant setting for engineers, with a focus on sustainable design and urban renewal. Companies like Arup offer exciting projects in this tech-driven city.
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Beaumont, TX
Average Salary: $118,771
Beaumont offers a mix of projects in oil and gas, infrastructure, and environmental engineering. Local firms like Zachry Group provide opportunities in these sectors.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $118,280
Santa Rosa is known for its wine country and offers projects in urban planning and environmental engineering. Engineers can work with firms like URS Corporation.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $118,174
Los Angeles provides a diverse range of projects, from transportation to water management. Companies like AECOM and WSP Global offer numerous opportunities for civil engineers.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $111,812
Washington, DC offers a unique blend of government and private sector projects. Engineers can work with firms like CH2M on infrastructure and public works projects.
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What are the best companies a Civil Engineer can work for?

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Techno Consult Inc.
Average Salary: $166,682
Techno Consult Inc. offers exciting Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on infrastructure projects. They work in various locations, including California, Texas, and Florida. Their projects often involve designing and managing large-scale construction projects.
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Toole Design Group
Average Salary: $147,870
Toole Design Group provides Civil Engineer positions with a strong emphasis on sustainable design. They operate in states like Arizona, Colorado, and Washington. Their work includes designing water systems, transportation networks, and public spaces.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $146,250
Piper Companies offers Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on environmental projects. They work in regions such as New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Their projects often involve environmental impact assessments and green infrastructure.
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City of Oxnard
Average Salary: $145,139
The City of Oxnard provides Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on municipal infrastructure. They operate in Oxnard, California. Their work includes maintaining and improving city roads, water systems, and public buildings.
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Interwest Consulting Group
Average Salary: $143,462
Interwest Consulting Group offers Civil Engineer positions with a focus on transportation projects. They work in states like Utah, Idaho, and Montana. Their projects often involve designing and managing highways, bridges, and public transit systems.
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CONSOR Engineers
Average Salary: $142,521
CONSOR Engineers provides Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on structural engineering. They operate in states like Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. Their work includes designing and managing buildings, bridges, and other structures.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $142,409
Amazon.com offers Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on logistics and infrastructure. They operate globally, with major hubs in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Their projects often involve designing and managing warehouses, distribution centers, and transportation networks.
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BB&E
Average Salary: $141,228
BB&E provides Civil Engineer positions with a focus on water resources. They work in states like California, Nevada, and Arizona. Their work includes designing and managing water systems, flood control projects, and environmental restoration.
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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $136,497
HNTB Corporation offers Civil Engineer jobs with a focus on transportation and infrastructure. They work in various locations across the United States. Their projects often involve designing and managing highways, bridges, and public transit systems.
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Gannett Fleming
Average Salary: $135,955
Gannett Fleming provides Civil Engineer positions with a focus on environmental and infrastructure projects. They operate in states like Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. Their work includes designing and managing water systems, transportation networks, and public spaces.
How to earn more as a Civil Engineer?
Civil engineers often find ways to increase their earnings through various avenues. One key strategy involves gaining specialized certifications. These credentials can open up higher-paying job opportunities and roles with more responsibility. For example, becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) can lead to better-paying positions. Another way to earn more is by gaining experience in high-demand areas such as infrastructure, environmental engineering, or construction management. These areas often offer higher salaries due to their complexity and importance.
Civil engineers can also increase their earnings by pursuing advanced degrees. A master's degree in civil engineering or a related field can lead to higher-paying jobs. These degrees often qualify engineers for roles such as project managers or consultants, which typically pay more. Networking and building relationships within the industry can also lead to higher-paying job offers. Attending industry conferences and joining professional organizations can help engineers connect with potential employers. Finally, relocating to areas with higher demand for civil engineers can lead to better-paying opportunities. Engineers should research salary trends in different regions to make informed decisions.
Here are some key factors to consider for earning more as a civil engineer:
- Obtain specialized certifications, such as becoming a licensed Professional Engineer (PE).
- Gain experience in high-demand areas like infrastructure, environmental engineering, or construction management.
- Pursue advanced degrees, such as a master's degree in civil engineering.
- Network within the industry by attending conferences and joining professional organizations.
- Consider relocating to areas with higher demand and better salaries for civil engineers.