The Highest Paying Civil Engineering Jobs

Civil engineering is always moving forward. It’s a diverse, fast-growing field with opportunities for those ready to take on challenges and step up. If you want to grow your career and maximise your earning potential, these high-paying civil engineering roles are worth considering. Each one calls for technical expertise, leadership, and innovation, and the rewards speak for themselves.

Petroleum Engineer

Petroleum engineers are central to the global energy industry, designing advanced drilling and extraction processes that keep industries running worldwide. Their skills are highly sought after, with salaries ranging from £70,000 to £105,000 per year. Contractors often see daily rates between £550 and £850.

Offshore Engineer

Offshore engineers work in some of the toughest environments, designing and building marine structures like platforms and wind farms. This role demands specialist knowledge in structural engineering and environmental analysis. Salaries typically fall between £58,000 and £85,000 per year, while contractors can expect daily rates from £500 to £750.

Bridge Engineer

Bridge engineers are responsible for designing and overseeing the construction of essential transport links. Their work ensures road, rail, and pedestrian networks keep moving. Salaries are usually between £42,000 and £65,000 per year, with contractor daily rates of £375 to £575.

Tunnelling Engineer

Tunnelling engineers bring underground transport systems and urban infrastructure to life. This highly technical field requires strong geotechnical knowledge and precision. Salaries can reach £75,000 per year, with contractors earning between £425 and £650 per day.

Water Resources Engineer

Water resources engineers design and manage systems for water supply, drainage, and flood defence. Their work is vital for sustainable infrastructure and community resilience. Salaries range from £47,000 to £75,000 per year, while contractors can expect daily rates from £425 to £625.

Structural Design Engineer

From skyscrapers to stadiums, structural design engineers make sure ambitious projects are safe, functional, and sustainable. Salaries sit between £42,000 and £75,000 per year, with contractor daily rates of £375 to £625.

Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical engineers assess soil and rock to provide stable foundations for major structures. Their expertise is essential for safe and sustainable construction. Salaries usually fall between £42,000 and £75,000 per year, while contractors can earn £375 to £625 per day.

Find Your Next Big Move

These high-paying roles give you the chance to solve real-world challenges and shape vital infrastructure. Civil engineering is about progress, innovation, and impact.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your civil engineering career, explore our current opportunities today.

For more insights into career paths and civil engineering recruitment, visit our dedicated recruitment page packed with resources to support your next move.

Expert Insight

Callum Cox, Civil Engineering Recruiter at Matchtech, says:

“Exploring these high-paying civil engineering roles opens up exciting avenues for both career growth and financial prosperity. As the demand for skilled civil engineers continues to rise, professionals in these sectors can anticipate not only lucrative opportunities but also the chance to make a lasting impact on vital infrastructure projects.”