Median annual wages by state — BLS OEWS, May 2025
Civil engineering technicians help engineers plan, design, and inspect infrastructure — roads, bridges, water systems, and site development. The work splits between field duty (surveying, materials testing, construction inspection) and office work (CAD drafting, plan review). It's the lightest-duty trade on this list physically, with strong public-sector stability.
Civil engineering technology at a community college: surveying, materials, CAD, and construction methods.
Field testing and inspection under senior techs. ACI and gauge certifications early.
Independent inspection and lab responsibility. NICET levels drive systematic raises.
Running inspection on major projects, or moving into construction management and public works leadership.
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