How to Become a Civil Engineers in Washington
Civil Engineers in Washington earn a median salary of $105,090/year, which is 6% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a civil engineers takes home approximately $5,448/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a civil engineers can afford in Washington
Becoming a civil engineers in Washington
Meet education requirements
Civil Engineers positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many civil engineers positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for civil engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 11,900 civil engineers. The highest concentrations are in Kennewick-Richland and Walla Walla.
Civil Engineers salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kennewick-Richland | $121K | $58.25/hr | 500 |
| Walla Walla | $119K | $57.25/hr | 210 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $108K | $51.89/hr | 7,250 |
| Bellingham | $105K | $50.35/hr | 230 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $103K | $49.29/hr | 840 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $102K | $49.11/hr | 260 |
| Yakima | $98K | $46.92/hr | 190 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $98K | $46.91/hr | 610 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $95K | $45.76/hr | 190 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $95K | $45.76/hr | 140 |
| Longview-Kelso | $88K | $42.5/hr | 50 |
Civil Engineers salary range in Washington
Civil Engineers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a civil engineers make in Washington?▼
The median civil engineers salary in Washington is $105,090 per year ($50.52/hr). This is 6% above the national median of $99,590. Salaries range from $80,650 to $155,010.
What are the requirements to become a civil engineers in Washington?▼
Civil Engineers positions in Washington typically require Bachelor's degree. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a civil engineers afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $105,090, a civil engineers in Washington would take home approximately $6,860/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 20.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for civil engineers in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for civil engineers in Washington are Kennewick-Richland ($121,170), Walla Walla ($119,080), Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($107,930). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for civil engineers?▼
No, Washington does not have a state income tax. This means civil engineers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.