The salary of a civil engineer can vary widely based on a number of factors, including the location, the engineer’s level of experience, the size and type of employer, and the engineer’s area of specialization. In general, civil engineers with more experience and higher levels of education tend to earn higher salaries.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for civil engineers was $87,060 as of May 2020. The lowest 10% of civil engineers earned less than $54,480 per year, while the highest 10% earned more than $124,520 per year.
Salaries can also vary depending on the type of employer. Civil engineers working for the federal government tend to earn higher salaries than those working for state or local governments. Engineers working for consulting firms or contractors may also earn higher salaries than those working directly for government agencies.
In addition to their base salaries, many civil engineers also receive benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid vacation and sick leave. Some employers may also provide additional perks, such as flexible work schedules, professional development opportunities, and tuition reimbursement.