
Massachusetts is well known for its infrastructure and construction sector. It is one of the most encouraging states for civil engineers in the U.S. Cities like Boston are hotspots for career growth due to major public and private projects, competitive salaries, and innovation in engineering practices.
In this guide, we explore the civil engineer salary in Massachusetts, what professionals are earning in 2025 and the factors influencing those figures. From entry-level roles to experienced engineers with certifications, the compensation range varies widely.
Average Salary for Civil Engineers in Massachusetts 2025
In 2025, the civil engineer salary in Massachusetts is approximately $110,834 per year. This figure reflects the state's robust infrastructure initiatives and the high demand for engineering expertise. Civil engineer salary in Boston, the state's central hub, offers even higher compensation, with a civil engineer earning an average of $116,445 annually.
Here's a breakdown by Experience Level:
- Entry-Level Civil Engineers: $56,000–$89,000 per year.
- Mid-Level Civil Engineers (5–8 years): $90,875 annually.
- Senior Civil Engineers: Earning up to $142,549 per year.
Professionals with certifications such as PE or PMP, and expertise in areas like Building Information Modeling (BIM) or smart city infrastructure, often command salaries at the higher end of these ranges.
5 Key Career Paths For Civil Engineer in Massachusetts
A career in civil engineering offers multiple specialization opportunities depending on your interests, skills, and industry demands. In cities like Boston and Cambridge, civil engineers are in high demand due to an increasing number of infrastructure and urban development projects. Below are civil engineering roles that professionals commonly pursue in the state.
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BIM Engineer
The construction in Massachusetts is now more digitized, and BIM engineers are among the professionals who are most sought after. BIM engineering increases collaboration between architects, civil engineers, and project managers by enabling clash detection, cost estimation, and seamless project coordination.
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Structural Engineer
Structural engineering ensures the stability and integrity of buildings, bridges, tunnels, and other structures. Depending on their experience level and certifications, structural engineers in Massachusetts earn between $85,000 and over $110,000.
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Transportation Engineer
With transportation always in demand, this career offers high-paying, stable positions in the design and improvement of roadways, transit systems, railways, and airports. Transportation engineers in Worcester and Boston usually enjoy competitive salaries and may also benefit from long-term project contracts with the state.
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Environmental Engineer
The environmental engineers are responsible for ensuring that projects comply with environmental laws and promote sustainability. Civil engineers who are into environmental roles may earn up to $90,000 annually, especially with certifications in sustainability or environmental compliance, due to the state's focus on eco-friendly infrastructure.
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Geotechnical Engineer
Usually, Geotechnical engineers analyze soil, rock and foundation conditions to determine how they’ll affect the structural quality of projects. In a coastal state like Massachusetts, where construction often occurs on varied terrain, this role is essential for every type of structure.
Average Civil Engineer Salaries in Massachusetts and Other Cities
The average salary for a civil engineer usually varies depending on the location, cost of living and demand.
Take a look at average civil engineering salaries in key US cities.
City |
Average annual salary |
New York, NY |
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Boston, MA |
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Los Angeles, CA |
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Chicago, IL |
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Seattle, WA |
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Austin, TX |
These salary estimates show what civil engineers are earning in competitive markets, helping professionals plan their careers strategically.
6 Factors Affecting Civil Engineering Salaries in Boston and Massachusetts
For professionals who want to maximize their earning potential, they should understand the variables that influence a civil engineer's salary in Massachusetts, particularly in Boston. Here are six key factors:
1. Experience and Career Progression
An individuals level of experience usually affects salary levels. Entry-level civil engineers in Boston earn an average of $79,877 per year, while those with more experience can earn more than this. For instance senior civil engineers in Boston earn an average salary of $112,430 every year. When a civil engineer gains more experience, they take on more complicated projects and leadership roles.
2. Educational Background and Professional License
Higher educational qualifications and certifications can lead to better-paying positions. Engineers who have a master's degree and the necessary certifications usually have access to roles with greater responsibility and higher salaries.
3. Technological proficiency and skills
Being proficiency in areas such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) can set candidates apart. BIM is highly integrated to modern infrastructure projects making engineers skilled in BIM tools in high demand. This specialization positions engineers for higher salary brackets.
4. Industry and Employer
The sector in which a civil engineer works influences their salary. Engineers working for the federal government earn a median annual salary of $114,210, while those in local government earn $108,790. Jobs in large engineering private firms can come with higher salaries and better benefits.
5. Geographic Location Within the State
The Salaries differ a lot across various cities in Massachusetts. In Boston, civil engineers earn an average of $95,036 per year, while in Springfield, the average is higher at $111,540 per year. These differences are caused by factors such as cost of living, demand, and economic conditions.
6. Project Complexity
Engineers working on large-scale projects often receive higher compensation. Projects that involve significant technical challenges and those that are important to public infrastructure usually demand a higher level of expertise, which is reflected in the salaries offered.
Average Salary in Civil Engineering: 5-Year Trends in Massachusetts
Over the past five years, civil engineering salary trends in Massachusetts have steadily increased, driven by major infrastructure investments, climate resilience initiatives, and the growing need for urban renewal across the state.
- In 2019, the average salary for civil engineers in Massachusetts was approximately $79,830. This was fueled by the state’s commitment to improving transportation systems, bridges, and public facilities, especially in densely populated areas like Boston and Worcester.
- In 2020, although the COVID-19 pandemic brought a temporary slowdown, an average increase of $82,450 is plausible. While some projects were delayed, essential infrastructure work continued, keeping employment relatively stable for many professionals in the field.
- By 2021, salaries showed a significant rebound to an average of $94,000, supported by renewed infrastructure and the launch of several federal projects. Engineers with expertise in digital construction tools and sustainable design began to command higher pay as the industry embraced more advanced technologies.
- In 2022, salaries climbed further to an average of $94,530, reflecting increased demand for civil engineers in coastal projects and stormwater management systems. Massachusetts' focus on climate adaptation and green infrastructure played a significant role in this rise.
- As of 2023–2024, the average salary for civil engineers in Massachusetts was about $96,600. The upward trend continues due to ongoing investments in high-speed rail, smart infrastructure, and sustainable urban planning.
Boost Your Salary as a Civil Engineer by Mastering BIM
In today’s competitive AEC industry, standing out as a civil engineer requires more than just a degree. Building Information Modeling (BIM) is transforming how infrastructure projects are designed and executed. By mastering BIM, you not only stay relevant but also open doors to higher-paying roles and faster career growth.
The BIM Advantage:
- Civil engineers with BIM skills are very much in demand, earning over 40% more than the rest.
- Better use of BIM boosts efficiency, makes collaboration far simpler, and helps to achieve superior project results.
How Novatr Helps?
Novatr Offers BIM Professional Course for civil and structural engineers, Novatr’s comprehensive program helps you gain BIM expertise in just 7 months. This course helps you learn about information modeling, parametric structure families, preparing drawings and presenting your designs. It also covers 3D modeling, BIM principles for infrastructure and 4D/5D visualization.
The main focus of this program is on real skills, which involve using the cloud, streamlining BIM techniques, working together and locating clashes. It enables you to use Revit, as well as over 12 other leading building information modeling programs, while following practical methods. Upon the completion of the course, you will be eligible for recognition from Autodesk and Novatr, which can improve your job prospects.
Key USPs:
- Get Dual Certification from Autodesk and Novatr
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- 40+ hours of live learning with lifelong access to program content, including multiple RIBA & ISO 19650 Capstone projects.
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- 48% Average CTC Hike: Get placement assistance to land BIM jobs in globally operating AEC firms.
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Why Choose Novatr?
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In a rapidly evolving industry, Novatr stands out as the premier choice for civil engineers looking to master BIM. Enroll today to future-proof your career and unlock unparalleled growth opportunities in the AEC sector.
Next Step
To further boost your earnings and open doors to high-impact roles, consider upskilling with tools that are focused on the future, like BIM. BIM professional course for Civil Engineers by Novatr is your key to mastering the next era of infrastructure design and management while setting you apart in a crowded job market.
Visit our resource page to explore more resources and expert guidance on advancing your career.
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