How much does a Civil Engineer make?
Civil engineers play a crucial role in our society. They design and oversee the construction of infrastructure. This includes roads, bridges, and buildings. Their work ensures that communities have safe and efficient places to live and work. The average yearly salary for a civil engineer is $95,193.
Civil engineers often start with less experience and earn lower salaries. With more years in the field, salaries increase. Here are some salary ranges based on experience:
- 10% earn less than $52,907
- 25% earn between $52,907 and $65,616
- 50% earn between $65,616 and $91,035
- 75% earn between $91,035 and $116,453
- 90% earn less than $129,163
What are the highest paying cities for a Civil Engineer?

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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $139,750
In Bakersfield, engineers contribute to infrastructure projects for the city's growing population. Key employers include AECOM and the city's public works department.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $136,914
Modesto offers opportunities for engineers to work on urban development and transportation projects. Companies like CH2M and the city government provide many job openings.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $122,725
San Jose is a hub for tech and innovation, offering dynamic roles for engineers. Notable employers include Google and Tesla.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $121,666
Los Angeles provides a variety of projects in urban planning and infrastructure. Major companies like AECOM and AECOM offer exciting career paths.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $120,050
Santa Rosa offers projects that blend urban growth with environmental concerns. Key employers include AECOM and the city's public works department.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $120,042
San Francisco provides numerous opportunities for engineers in a bustling tech environment. Companies like AECOM and the city's public works department are always hiring.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $115,566
Seattle offers diverse projects ranging from urban development to green infrastructure. Companies such as AECOM and the city's public works department provide many job opportunities.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $115,352
Sacramento offers a mix of government and private sector projects. Engineers can work for AECOM and the state's public works department.
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Durham, NC
Average Salary: $113,738
Durham offers opportunities in both urban development and research. Key employers include AECOM and Duke University.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $113,580
Jacksonville provides a variety of projects in coastal and urban infrastructure. Notable employers include AECOM and the city's public works department.
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What are the best companies a Civil Engineer can work for?

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Techno Consult Inc.
Average Salary: $163,039
Techno Consult Inc. offers Civil Engineer jobs in California, New York, and Texas. They work on big projects like highways, bridges, and public buildings. Their work helps make cities better and safer.
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Toole Design Group
Average Salary: $156,298
Toole Design Group has Civil Engineer jobs in many states, like California, Washington, and Arizona. They focus on designing and planning projects for cities and roads. Their goal is to improve the way people live.
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HNTB Corporation
Average Salary: $152,427
HNTB Corporation has Civil Engineer jobs in many states, including Florida, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. They work on big projects like roads, airports, and public transit. They aim to make transportation easier and safer.
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RQ Construction
Average Salary: $148,387
RQ Construction has Civil Engineer jobs in Colorado and Utah. They work on projects like buildings, roads, and parks. They focus on making sure their projects are safe and eco-friendly.
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TYlin
Average Salary: $146,933
TYlin offers Civil Engineer jobs in California and Washington. They work on projects for cities, roads, and public buildings. Their goal is to create projects that are both beautiful and functional.
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Piper Companies
Average Salary: $146,125
Piper Companies has Civil Engineer jobs in the Midwest, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois. They work on projects like roads, bridges, and public buildings. They aim to make communities better.
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City of Seattle
Average Salary: $140,033
The City of Seattle offers Civil Engineer jobs in Washington. They work on projects for the city, like roads, bridges, and public buildings. Their work helps improve the city and its people.
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Amazon.com
Average Salary: $139,083
Amazon.com offers Civil Engineer jobs in many states, including Virginia, California, and Washington. They work on projects for Amazon’s buildings and warehouses. Their work helps Amazon run smoothly and efficiently.
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T&M Associates
Average Salary: $138,550
T&M Associates has Civil Engineer jobs in New York and New Jersey. They work on projects for buildings, roads, and parks. Their goal is to create projects that are both safe and beautiful.
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Interwest Consulting Group
Average Salary: $135,000
Interwest Consulting Group has Civil Engineer jobs in the western U.S., including Colorado and Utah. They work on projects for cities, roads, and public buildings. They aim to make the environment and communities better.
How to earn more as a Civil Engineer?
Becoming a successful civil engineer involves more than just holding a degree. It means understanding the factors that can help increase your earnings. By focusing on these elements, you can make more in your career.
Earning more as a civil engineer starts with gaining experience and skills that set you apart. Here are some key factors to consider:
- Certification: Gaining certifications such as becoming a Professional Engineer (PE) can lead to higher pay.
- Specialization: Focusing on a niche like environmental engineering or transportation can open up higher-paying opportunities.
- Location: Working in areas with high demand for civil engineers, such as big cities, can result in higher salaries.
- Experience: More years in the field often mean higher pay. Experience allows for greater responsibilities and expertise.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can lead to job offers and salary negotiations that pay better.



