How to Become a Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians in California earn a median salary of $81,240/year, which is 27% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a civil engineering technologists and technicians takes home approximately $3,742/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a civil engineering technologists and technicians can afford in California
Becoming a civil engineering technologists and technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many civil engineering technologists and technicians positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for civil engineering technologists and technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 6,650 civil engineering technologists and technicians. The highest concentrations are in Napa and San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara.
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Napa | $96K | $46/hr | 40 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $94K | $45.08/hr | 330 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $91K | $43.53/hr | 1,050 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $88K | $42.29/hr | 70 |
| Modesto | $88K | $42.16/hr | 50 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $87K | $42/hr | 120 |
| Vallejo | $87K | $41.96/hr | 40 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $83K | $39.74/hr | 430 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $82K | $39.37/hr | 1,710 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $80K | $38.23/hr | 760 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $79K | $38.04/hr | 90 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $79K | $37.91/hr | 740 |
| Salinas | $78K | $37.69/hr | 40 |
| Redding | $76K | $36.6/hr | 60 |
| Fresno | $75K | $36.28/hr | 240 |
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians salary range in California
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a civil engineering technologists and technicians make in California?▼
The median civil engineering technologists and technicians salary in California is $81,240 per year ($39.06/hr). This is 27% above the national median of $64,200. Salaries range from $53,460 to $114,670.
What are the requirements to become a civil engineering technologists and technicians in California?▼
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a civil engineering technologists and technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $81,240, a civil engineering technologists and technicians in California would take home approximately $5,154/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for civil engineering technologists and technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for civil engineering technologists and technicians in California are Napa ($95,680), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($93,770), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($90,540). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for civil engineering technologists and technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $81,240 salary, this means roughly $3,693/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.