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Job outlook for civil/structural engineers in the United States
Civil/structural engineer job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected civil/structural engineer job growth rate is 7% from 2018-2028.
About 22,100 new jobs for civil/structural engineers are projected over the next decade.
Civil/structural engineer salaries have increased 6% for civil/structural engineers in the last 5 years.
There are over 53,475 civil/structural engineers currently employed in the United States.
There are 20,123 active civil/structural engineer job openings in the US.
The average civil/structural engineer salary is $74,421.
Are civil/structural engineer jobs in demand?
Civil/structural engineer job and salary trends over time
Civil/structural engineer jobs over time
Civil/structural engineer job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 53,475 | 0.02% |
| 2020 | 52,867 | 0.02% |
| 2019 | 54,625 | 0.02% |
| 2018 | 53,778 | 0.02% |
| 2017 | 52,527 | 0.02% |
Average civil/structural engineer salary over time
Civil/structural engineer salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | $74,421 | $35.78 | +1.7% |
| 2025 | $73,152 | $35.17 | +0.5% |
| 2024 | $72,799 | $35.00 | +2.2% |
| 2023 | $71,228 | $34.24 | +1.5% |
| 2022 | $70,194 | $33.75 | +1.6% |
Civil/structural engineer jobs by state
Most common states for civil/structural engineers
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 177 | 26% |
| 2 | Virginia | 8,470,020 | 879 | 10% |
| 3 | Delaware | 961,939 | 92 | 10% |
| 4 | Alaska | 739,795 | 74 | 10% |
| 5 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 353 | 9% |
| 6 | Montana | 1,050,493 | 99 | 9% |
| 7 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 574 | 8% |
| 8 | Maryland | 6,052,177 | 480 | 8% |
| 9 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 474 | 8% |
| 10 | Vermont | 623,657 | 48 | 8% |
| 11 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 50 | 7% |
| 12 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 423 | 6% |
| 13 | Utah | 3,101,833 | 196 | 6% |
| 14 | Nebraska | 1,920,076 | 116 | 6% |
| 15 | Hawaii | 1,427,538 | 81 | 6% |
| 16 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 76 | 6% |
| 17 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 48 | 6% |
| 18 | Wyoming | 579,315 | 36 | 6% |
| 19 | California | 39,536,653 | 2,167 | 5% |
| 20 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 89 | 5% |
Most common cities for civil/structural engineers
| Rank | City | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl | Avg. salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | McLean | 4 | 8% | $73,168 |
| 2 | Baton Rouge | 6 | 3% | $70,767 |
| 3 | Bowling Green | 2 | 3% | $68,617 |
| 4 | Centreville | 2 | 3% | $72,976 |
| 5 | Mobile | 3 | 2% | $67,831 |
| 6 | Ann Arbor | 2 | 2% | $64,252 |
| 7 | Denver | 6 | 1% | $68,974 |
| 8 | Sacramento | 5 | 1% | $105,473 |
| 9 | Atlanta | 3 | 1% | $63,518 |
| 10 | Birmingham | 2 | 1% | $66,939 |
| 11 | Chicago | 5 | 0% | $70,268 |
| 12 | Portland | 3 | 0% | $75,235 |
| 13 | San Diego | 3 | 0% | $90,078 |
| 14 | San Francisco | 3 | 0% | $105,380 |
| 15 | Boston | 2 | 0% | $74,075 |
Civil/Structural Engineer job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of civil/structural engineer experts
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
California State Polytechnic University, Pomona
Northeastern University
University of New Mexico
Ohio University
University of Texas at Tyler
North Dakota State University
Rockhurst University
University of Miami
George Fox University
The University of Texas at Arlington
Pace University
Bowling Green State University
Alabama A&M University
Santa Clara University
University of Pittsburgh - Johnstown
Caribbean University
San Diego State University
Oklahoma State University
What general advice would you give to a Civil/Structural Engineer?
Xiaowei Shi Ph.D.: Start by focusing on building a solid foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of civil engineering. It’s crucial to stay curious and continuously learn, as the field is constantly evolving with new technologies and methodologies. Develop strong problem-solving skills and learn to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams since civil projects often require collaboration across different fields. Networking is key—attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with peers and experts in the field. Finally, be proactive in seeking opportunities that align with your interests and skills, whether in academia, government, or the private sector.
What general advice would you give to a Civil/Structural Engineer?
Simeng Li Ph.D.: I would like to say the most important is to be proactive and take initiative in your work – show your enthusiasm and willingness to take on new challenges. Being proactive not only leads to opportunities for advancement, but also helps great mentors to notice you and makes them want to help you navigate through the complexities of the industry because your attitude reminds them of their younger selves. While improving your technical skills, keep polishing your soft skills for collaborating effectively at the present and leading projects in the near future.
Serena Alexander Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Environmental Policy and EngineeringNortheastern University
Civil Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Civil/Structural Engineer?
Serena Alexander Ph.D.: Be determined, patient, and resilient. Civil and environmental engineers often deal with projects that take time and persistent effort; unexpected obstacles might arise at any time. Your ability to deal with uncertainties and address challenges with determination is key to your success. You also must be patient—with your team, clients, contractors, governmental and community organizations. You cannot solve problems without critically listening to what all these players have to say about the project and its challenges. Lastly, if things do not go as planned, your ability to bounce back quickly and develop an effective, alternative plan is important.
What Civil/Structural Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Serena Alexander Ph.D.: Civil and environmental engineering is a vast field requiring a diverse set of skills depending on the sub-field. It is important to stay up to date with the technical skills required for your sub-field. There are also common skills that are important for all civil and environmental engineers. For example, analytical thinking to break down complex problems into manageable parts, and solving these smaller problems without losing sight of the larger problem is essential. Visualization and communications skills to describe the problem and the solution to a diverse audience is another important skill. Also, project management and leadership skills are key to your long-term success and advancement.
What will help Civil/Structural Engineers increase their earning potential?
Serena Alexander Ph.D.: Get your PE license, continue educating yourself about the new and innovative tools and techniques in your field, learn how to lead a team and deliver a project efficiently and effectively, and always negotiate. Never forget why you became an engineer in the first place; I doubt the salary was the main motivation. Most people become an engineer because they want to solve big problems. Strive to be the best problem-solver in your sub-field and your salary will increase to match your abilities and potentials.
What general advice would you give to a Civil/Structural Engineer?
Susan Halter PhD, PE, F.ASCE: Civil engineers can work in a variety of positions. Some civil engineers focus on designing solutions to solve some of our most critical problems, including providing clean drinking water and making sure our roads are safe for all users. Civil engineers who focus on design solutions typically work in collaborative groups with other engineers in an office setting. Civil engineers also work on making these designs a reality by managing complex construction projects. Civil engineers who focus on construction project management often work outside an office at the construction site. Civil engineers working in project management need good communication skills to work with the different partners on large, complex construction projects. Someone entering the field for the first time will typically work with a more experienced engineer on small aspects of larger projects. This could include small design tasks, visits to job sites, and answering requests for information from a construction project.
What Civil/Structural Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Susan Halter PhD, PE, F.ASCE: Civil engineers like knowing that they are helping society by solving critical problems and providing safe, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure.
What will help Civil/Structural Engineers increase their earning potential?
Susan Halter PhD, PE, F.ASCE: There is a critical need for infrastructure to address growth and to update older facilities. In addition, the U.S. government has committed significant funding for infrastructure improvement, which will require civil engineers to see it through.
What Civil/Structural Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Bhaven Naik PhD, PE, PTOE, RSP: Ability to analyze data … course in statistics will be very helpful. As well, the core classes in Civil Engineering are going to be very beneficial. As much as the new technology and all is quickly taking shape, there is going to be a need for the basics in the coming years.
What will help Civil/Structural Engineers increase their earning potential?
Bhaven Naik PhD, PE, PTOE, RSP: By being proactive … researching the current job salaries – ASCE have a great site for doing that. By continuous learning … getting licensure (PE, PTOE etc.) and also a Master’s degree (Civil or MBA).
Dr. Mena Souliman Ph.D., P.E., F.IRF.
Ronald D. Brazzel Endowed Professor of Civil EngineeringUniversity of Texas at Tyler
Civil Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Civil/Structural Engineer?
Dr. Mena Souliman Ph.D., P.E., F.IRF.: Civil engineering is a solid profession to enter for several reasons. First, there's a growing demand for infrastructure development globally, which creates job opportunities. Second, civil engineering offers a diverse range of career paths, from transportation to environmental engineering, providing flexibility and options for specialization. Additionally, advancements in technology are reshaping the field, offering opportunities for innovation and problem-solving. Lastly, civil engineers play a crucial role in addressing pressing issues like sustainability and resilience, making it a meaningful career choice for those who want to make a positive impact on society and the environment.
What will help Civil/Structural Engineers increase their earning potential?
Dr. Mena Souliman Ph.D., P.E., F.IRF.: People often appreciate the variety of projects and the opportunity to solve real-world problems that come with being a civil engineer. Additionally, seeing tangible results, such as completed infrastructure projects, can be rewarding. However, challenges like dealing with bureaucratic processes, long hours during project deadlines, and the potential for work to be affected by external factors like weather or funding constraints can be sources of frustration. Overall, satisfaction in the field often depends on individual preferences and the specific work environment.
What general advice would you give to a Civil/Structural Engineer?
Mijia Yang: Sure, I can answer the questions you might have. Please send them my way and I will try to answer them the best I can.
What Civil/Structural Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Mijia Yang: This is perfect! Thank you so much. We will be sure to feature your response in the article and send a draft over for your review before we promote it.
What will help Civil/Structural Engineers increase their earning potential?
Mijia Yang: Attached please find my answers to the questions you asked. Hope they could benefit these students who want to purse the Civil Engineering field.
What general advice would you give to a Civil/Structural Engineer?
John Kevern Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE, FACI, LEED AP: Strive to find a mentor(s) both within your company and outside of your company whose career path you would like to emulate. Become involved in a related professional organization. The American Society of Civil Engineering has professional chapters and younger member groups within the chapter. Participating in these groups helps to build a professional network and find mentors.
What Civil/Structural Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Joseph Reichenberger PE [CA AZ HI NM NV], BCEE, F.ASCE: Infrastructure is on the minds of governments and funding agencies have supported
infrastructure. The federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, passed in November 2021,
authorized $1.2 trillion dollars for a variety of infrastructure projects.
From: https://home.treasury.gov/news/featured-stories/infrastructure-investment-in-the-united-states
Civil engineers are involved in most if not all of these types of projects. So the job market for
civil engineers for the near term is excellent.
Afifa Mushtaque in an article published 03102024 entitled "20 Highest Paying Countries for Civil
Engineers" https://www.insidermonkey.com/blog/20-highest-paying-countries-for-civil-engineers-
1271941/, stated the global civil engineering market is looking for major growth as $13.7 trillion
dollars is expected by 2030 and forecasts a compound annual growth rate of nearly 6% from
2023 to 2030.
Civil engineering has generally always been a good field for jobs. Civil engineering jobs tend to
follow the housing market so it is not all roses. There was a significant reduction in employment
for civil engineers, along with many others in the early 1980s and recently in the recession in
2010 or so. But the recovery has been substantial and continuing as stated above.
We are blessed with an influx of well prepared, young graduates with skills in the latest
technology replacing retiring civil engineers. Our typical class here at Loyola Marymount
University (LMU) typically has 30 to 40% women. It is a great profession for women and work
force is quite diverse.
Esber Andiroglu PhD, PE, LEED AP
Associate Professor of Practice, Dept. of Civil & Architectural Engineering, Director of Construction Management ProgramsUniversity of Miami
Architectural Engineering
What general advice would you give to a Civil/Structural Engineer?
Esber Andiroglu PhD, PE, LEED AP: Interdisciplinary and transformative design and construction approaches; integration of emerging technological innovations into practice; integration of software tools into everyday problem solving; solid knowledge about smart systems and AI applications; good understanding and ability to use data analytics
Ben Giudice Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Civil EngineeringGeorge Fox University
Department of Mechanical, Civil, and Biomedical Engineering
What hard/technical skills are most important for Civil/Structural Engineers?
Ben Giudice Ph.D.: Specific technical skills that are important will vary widely by what the employer is looking for. Civil engineering is an incredibly broad field with many specialties and subspecialties. Having technical skills like specific software capabilities in the area of civil engineering one is proposing to enter is definitely a plus. Moreso than specific technical skills, it is important to highlight any kind of project work that has been completed, whether those be major projects as part of the coursework, a senior capstone project, or extracurricular projects of relevance that have been completed.
What Civil/Structural Engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Ben Giudice Ph.D.: If you like working with people and serving your community, being a civil engineer can be very rewarding. You can also contribute to a healthier environment by developing more environmentally friendly designs. There is a wide variety of different kinds of work that civil engineers do, as it is a very broad discipline. Because of this, it is likely that something within civil engineering will excite and interest you. I haven't known anyone who was a civil engineer that disliked it! Compared with other engineering disciplines, the pay is not quite as high on average, but there are generally more opportunities available on a more consistent basis, and there are jobs available everywhere in the world nearly all the time.
What will help Civil/Structural Engineers increase their earning potential?
Ben Giudice Ph.D.: There is a huge demand for civil engineers across the nation. All of the junior civil engineering students at George Fox University this year had internships for the summer lined up by the end of March. Every senior either had a job offer signed by the end of March, or had multiple offers they were still weighing. The need for civil engineers will never go away, as society will always need qualified civil engineers to support all aspects of civilization. You can also work nearly anywhere in the world, as practically wherever there are people, there is a need for civil engineering.
What soft skills should all Civil/Structural Engineers possess?
Bijan Shapoorian: Effective interaction and communication with project stakeholders.
James Albrecht
Professor of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security, retired NYPD Captain/Commanding OfficerPace University
Criminal Justice and Homeland Security Department
What skills stand out on Civil/Structural Engineer resumes?
James Albrecht: Obviously, civil engineers have to possess a comprehensive and advanced understanding of architecture, physics, mathematics, engineering, and drafting skills, but 9-11 and even climate change have added other concerns to the field of civil engineering. Engineers now have to consider the need for safeguarding against terrorist events, natural disasters, rioting, and other man-made occurrences. As such, target hardening options must be considered, particularly when building in highly trafficked urban areas, when designing or renovating government buildings and public infrastructure, in tourist destinations, and in a hurricane, tornado, or other inclement weather prone zones. If one plans to work on projects in these areas or regions, it would be practical and realistic to take courses in critical infrastructure and safeguard national infrastructure offered by the Federal Emergency Management Administration, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and other public-private organizations.
What soft skills should all Civil/Structural Engineers possess?
James Albrecht: Never underestimate having effective "people skills." You must be able to listen, communicate and express yourself in a competent and empathetic manner. Asking questions for more specific insight into project objectives and posing your own questions that delineate target hardening options to clients and potential customers will add the necessary human touch, not only to the field of civil engineering but to any profession.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Civil/Structural Engineers?
James Albrecht: There are basic phenomena that all civil engineers have to understand and fully comprehend. These are the skills that you will learn in detail in books in college or at your training site. But a top-tier civil engineer must not only be acutely familiar with the project objectives but also must be exceptionally aware of the environment in which the building or structure has been or will be placed. As such, one must be cognizant of potential hazards posed by climate or people. There may be expressed concerns or mandates about building in hurricane, tornado or flooding prone areas, but a civil engineer must take into consideration population density, proximity to a high-value person, structure, or historic site (e.g., City Hall, electric company, Liberty Bell, etc.), and potential for mass casualty or extreme damage if attacked by radical elements or rioters. Unfortunately, this is the world that we live in today.
What skills will help Civil/Structural Engineers earn the most?
James Albrecht: Clearly possessing a thorough and exceptional understanding of the basic skills needed in civil engineering is extremely critical. In addition, by expressing concerns or describing options for target hardening, you will also show your client that you have their safety and welfare in mind. Conducting a historical assessment of weather, sensational incidents, area crime rate, population density, and peak daily usage, and combining that with an evaluation of nearby sites that may be appealing to tourists or that routinely draw large crowds, e.g., nearby subway or bus station, should cause a client to be impressed with your comprehensive understanding and analysis of project-related issues. Undoubtedly, any "people skills" you can bring to the table that highlights your empathetic nature will surely inspire a customer or potential client.
Alan Atalah Ph.D.
ProfessorBowling Green State University
College of Technology Architecture and Applied Engineering
What hard/technical skills are most important for Civil/Structural Engineers?
Alan Atalah Ph.D.: Problem-solving involves defining the problem correctly, comprehending the facts related to the problem, identifying potential alternative solutions, devising selection criteria evaluate the alternatives, and selecting the best alternative solution.
Ability to use the a/c software programs to create value for the employer.
Simultaneously, visualizing the site and its surroundings, building and its requirements, time and sequence of operations, cost, quality, safety, etc., simultaneously avoids problems and solves problems quickly when they arise.
Pooja Preetha Ph.D.
Assistant ProfessorAlabama A&M University
Department of Mechanical and Civil Engineering
What skills will help Civil/Structural Engineers earn the most?
Pooja Preetha Ph.D.: Good decision making and identify the specific path/job that boosts your earning curve noticeably is the main thing to look at. Besides, good technical training, writing, and added accolades always catalyze the chances to get promoted sooner and earn more.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Civil/Structural Engineers?
Amin Ghafooripour Ph.D.: I don't think so, I have not seen a meaningful change.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Civil/Structural Engineers?
Amin Ghafooripour Ph.D.: Teaching at University requires advanced degrees, Licensed engineers may have a better chance.
What will help Civil/Structural Engineers increase their earning potential?
Amin Ghafooripour Ph.D.: Consultancy and research projects with external funding.
What's a good job out of college for Civil/Structural Engineers?
Brian L Houston: Any Civil Engineering position related to design, testing or field control (project management, etc..) seems worthwhile. The best answer would be any job that allows a graduate to advance in their professional development, while affording them the opportunity to increase productivity and reduce risk for their employer.
Dr. Luis Campos
ProfessorCaribbean University
Civil Engineering Department
What are the biggest trends we'll see in the Civil/Structural Engineer job market given the pandemic?
Dr. Luis Campos: The biggest trends which, in my opinion, is not for professionals. On-line commerce continues to be leading the jobs market...and will continue, at least, during the next 2 years.
What technical skills for a Civil/Structural Engineer stand out to employers?
Dr. Luis Campos: Use of computer and on-line navigating are the leading skills.
How have salaries changed over time for Civil/Structural Engineers?
Dr. Luis Campos: Salaries and unemployment have decreased to dangerous low levels. Increase in poverty levels are obvious.
Janusz Supernak Ph.D.
Professor and ChairSan Diego State University
Department of Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Civil/Structural Engineers?
Janusz Supernak Ph.D.: COVID-19 had an impact on all of us, graduates included. The transition to switch into remote learning on a short - just 10 days notice - in mid March 2020 was challenging for professors and students alike. Yes, not all consequences were negative. The pandemic just accelerated the process of transitioning into a hybrid type of instruction where the online
course delivery will have a more prominent role - even after the lockdowns are over. The transitioning was actually smoother than expected. We used this situation as an opportunity to check if the pandemic affected students' perception about the effectiveness of their learning. Although the "COVID period" scores were generally lower than the "pre-COVID period" scores, only 21% were actually statistically significant. Interestingly, student outcomes scores in the Senior Design course were actually higher under pandemic than before COVID. More on this in a Jan. 2021 publication:
Supernak, J et al, (2021), "COVID-19: How Do Engineering Students Assess its Impact on Their Learning?", Advances in Applied Sociology, 11, 14-25,
doi:10.2436/associ.2021.111002
Out of necessity, the overall computer literacy has increased during the pandemic which is a good outcome.
What's a good job out of college for Civil/Structural Engineers?
Janusz Supernak Ph.D.: All fields are different. In Civil Engineering, there will be a lot of work in any foreseeable future. According to ASCE, American infrastructure needs a $3 trillion (!) investment to be back in great shape. This is an example of a "good job out of college". Two factors: 1) good prospects for sustainable employment, and 2) good prospects for a high salary when demand for civil engineers and constructors is higher than supply of new graduates.
What will help Civil/Structural Engineers increase their earning potential?
Janusz Supernak Ph.D.: Ability to adjust to changes is one important factor. COVID-19 was a test that some passed better than others. Effective use of the newest technology is the key. Of course, salaries go up in the fields of great demand. Still, a lot depends on politicians who may or may not see the American infrastructure upgrade as a very high priority. Current political climate should accelerate civil engineering projects - and improve the earning potential of our most recent graduates.
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Civil/Structural Engineers?
Norb Delatte Ph.D.: I believe that employment in civil engineering will recover quickly. Actually, hiring has remained strong throughout the crisis.
What's a good job out of college for Civil/Structural Engineers?
Norb Delatte Ph.D.: Civil engineering offers a wide variety of jobs in both the public sector and private sector. Public sector includes state transportation agencies and city and local engineering offices. Private sector jobs include consulting firms and construction.
What technical skills for a Civil/Structural Engineer stand out to employers?
Norb Delatte Ph.D.: Employers are looking for strong design technical skills, and the ability to master design software rapidly. Professional and people skills are also important, because many of these positions deal with the public and with stakeholders.