Civil Engineer Job Description: Qualifications and Responsibilities

How to Write a Civil Engineer Job Description

A great Civil Engineer Job Description does more than list duties—it sets the tone for what your team values. Whether you're tackling a road expansion, upgrading water infrastructure, or building public spaces, hiring the right civil engineer starts with clearly laying out what the role involves and how it contributes to the bigger picture.

What is a Civil Engineer / What does a Civil Engineer do?

Civil Engineers take on the planning, design, and oversight of construction and infrastructure projects. That can mean anything from bridges and roadways to drainage systems and public buildings. They make sure designs are safe, cost-effective, and meet environmental and code requirements. Along the way, they work with contractors, inspectors, and sometimes government agencies to bring each project to life.

Civil Engineer Job Description Template

About the Role and Team

We’re looking for a Civil Engineer who’s ready to take on meaningful infrastructure work that improves the way communities function. In this role, you’ll join a team of planners, designers, and project managers to carry out civil design, coordinate with site crews, and keep things moving on time and within budget. If you care about smart development and getting the details right, this might be the job for you.

Education & Training

Required education: Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or a related field
Preferred education: Master’s in Structural, Transportation, or Environmental Engineering; PE license or working toward licensure

Responsibilities and Duties

• Develop detailed civil designs, blueprints, and technical specifications
  
• Conduct site assessments, soil tests, and environmental impact studies
  
• Oversee project execution and coordinate with construction and survey teams
  
• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local construction regulations
  
• Manage budgets, schedules, and reporting for engineering deliverables
  

Skills Requirements

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or similar design software
  
• Strong understanding of structural mechanics, hydrology, and geotechnical analysis
  
• Familiarity with surveying tools and GIS software
  

Non-technical Skills

• Excellent problem-solving and critical thinking
  
• Strong communication with stakeholders and regulatory agencies
  
• Organizational and project management capabilities
  

Preferred (but not required) Skills

• Experience in sustainable design or LEED-certified projects
  
• Background in transportation, municipal, or utility infrastructure
  
• Knowledge of construction safety standards and quality control practices
  

Civil Engineer Salary & Benefits

Most Civil Engineers in the U.S. earn between $75,000 and $100,000 per year, though experienced engineers with a PE license often see salaries over $120,000. Of course, compensation also depends on your location and area of focus.

Common benefits include:

• Health, dental, and vision coverage
  
• Company-matched retirement plans (e.g., 401(k))
  
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave
  
• Reimbursement for certifications or licensing exams
  
• On-site or fieldwork support, including safety gear and travel allowances
  

Tailoring Your Civil Engineer Job Description

Common Sub-specialties

• Structural Engineer – Focuses on load-bearing and stability for buildings and bridges
  
• Transportation Engineer – Designs roads, highways, airports, and transit systems
  
• Water Resources Engineer – Specializes in stormwater, wastewater, and irrigation systems
  
• Geotechnical Engineer – Analyzes soil, rock, and foundations for safe construction
  
• Construction Engineer – Manages the execution and budgeting of civil projects onsite
  

Seniority levels to consider

• Junior Civil Engineer: Entry-level role assisting with CAD drawings and field surveys
  
• Project Engineer: Mid-level, leading portions of project design and compliance
  
• Senior Civil Engineer: Manages full lifecycle of large projects, mentors teams, and liaises with regulatory bodies
  

Using Litespace for Your Resume Screening

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