Civil construction is one of the most reliable industries for stable employment and high paying career opportunities. With growing demand for infrastructure projects across the U.S.—including roads, bridges, and buildings—the construction industry is offering competitive salaries and advancement opportunities for skilled professionals. For job seekers with the right education, training, and technical skills, the earning potential in civil construction can be impressive.
Join Cardinal Civil Contracting, a civil contracting company serving Raleigh, Greensboro, Charlotte, and the surrounding areas of North Carolina, as we highlight the top paying jobs in civil construction.
Why Civil Construction Careers Are in High Demand
The demand for civil engineers and skilled workers continues to grow as communities invest in transportation systems, utilities, and site development. With a shortage of trained workers, companies are offering competitive salaries and better benefits to attract new talent.
This strong job outlook makes civil construction one of the most appealing industries for those who want steady work, career growth, and the satisfaction of building the infrastructure that supports everyday life.
Top Paying Career Opportunities in Civil Construction
Civil construction offers a wide range of high paying roles for professionals with diverse backgrounds, from technical specialists to project leaders. These positions not only provide competitive salaries but also play a vital role in shaping essential infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, and buildings.
Grading Operators and Specialists
Grading is one of the most critical phases of civil construction, ensuring that land is properly leveled and prepared for foundations, roadways, and drainage. These professionals use heavy machinery and strong technical skills to shape terrain according to engineering plans while maintaining compliance with safety standards and local codes.
The average pay for grading specialists ranges from $45,000 to $75,000 per year, with experienced operators earning more when leading site crews. As infrastructure projects continue to grow, the demand for skilled grading professionals remains strong.
Heavy Equipment Operators
Operating excavators, bulldozers, cranes, and loaders requires technical skills and a focus on safety regulations. Operators are responsible for moving materials, shaping land for buildings, and supporting construction projects of all sizes.
The average pay for heavy equipment operators ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 per year, with opportunities to develop into supervisory roles. Certifications can increase both demand and earning potential.
Civil Drilling and Blasting Experts
Drilling and blasting professionals are responsible for breaking through rock and tough earth to prepare sites for foundations, roadways, and other infrastructure projects. This job requires specialized training, strict adherence to safety regulations, and strong communication skills to coordinate with engineers, foremen, and site managers.
The average annual salary for civil drilling and blasting experts is typically $55,000 to $90,000 per year, with top earners exceeding that depending on project scale. With their expertise in rock excavation and site preparation, these professionals play a crucial role in ensuring large-scale construction projects stay on schedule.
Aviation Paving Specialists
Aviation paving is a specialized branch of civil construction focused on creating durable runways, taxiways, and aprons for airports. These professionals must apply advanced engineering principles to ensure surfaces meet exacting standards for heavy aircraft, weather conditions, and long-term use. The role requires both technical knowledge and attention to detail in working with asphalt, concrete, and specialized paving equipment.
Salaries for aviation paving specialists can range from $60,000 to $95,000 per year, with higher pay for those managing large airport projects or overseeing project teams. Because of the complexity of aviation infrastructure, this is considered one of the more high paying roles in the paving sector.
Construction Superintendents and Foremen
Superintendents and foremen lead field crews, enforce safety standards, and ensure compliance with building codes. They manage daily operations, making sure that projects run smoothly while maintaining worker safety and productivity.
This role typically earns $70,000 to $110,000 per year, with higher salaries available for large-scale projects. Strong communication skills and leadership abilities are essential.
Estimators
Estimators develop detailed cost forecasts for construction projects. They must have sharp technical knowledge of structures, materials, and labor costs. Their ability to accurately plan and calculate ensures profitability and efficiency.
The average pay ranges between $65,000 and $100,000 per year, with high earners exceeding that range in larger firms.
Safety Managers
With strict safety regulations governing every site, safety managers are more important than ever. They train project teams, enforce compliance, and ensure construction projects protect workers and maintain structural integrity.
Safety managers can expect average pay from $70,000 to $110,000 per year, with strong potential for advancement.
Construction Project Managers
Project managers are responsible for planning, scheduling, and managing project teams. They work closely with engineers, contractors, and clients to ensure projects stay on track and meet safety standards. Strong knowledge of budgets, timelines, and materials is required.
The median annual wage for project managers often exceeds $100,000 per year, with potential bonuses. This makes it one of the most high paying roles in the industry.
Civil Engineers
Civil engineers design and oversee construction projects, applying engineering principles and technical knowledge to ensure structural integrity and compliance with local building codes. From structural engineering to geotechnical engineers specializing in soil mechanics, these roles require a bachelor’s degree and strong problem solving and communication skills.
The average annual salary for civil engineers is around $70,000 to $120,000 per year, with opportunities to earn more as engineering managers. Those with strong civil engineering skills in areas like environmental engineering or transportation systems can advance quickly.
How to Start a Career in Civil Construction
Breaking into the civil construction industry can be done in multiple ways:
- Education: Many engineers start with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or related fields.
- Training and Certification: Entry-level roles allow you to learn while gaining technical skills and certifications.
- On-the-Job Experience: Hands-on training helps workers develop leadership and problem-solving abilities.
- Soft Skills: Strong communication skills, teamwork, and reliability are just as valuable as technical expertise.
With the right combination of training and experience, job seekers can move into some of the most high paying positions in the construction industry.
Explore Civil Construction Jobs with Cardinal Civil Contracting
At Cardinal Civil Contracting, we’re building more than just infrastructure—we’re building futures. Our professionals are at the heart of successful construction projects, from site development to complex infrastructure projects. We offer competitive salaries, a supportive team culture, and opportunities to lead and grow your career.
Whether you’re a seasoned engineer, a heavy equipment operator, or someone ready to start a new career path, Cardinal Civil Contracting has opportunities for you. Browse our civil construction job opportunities in North Carolina or contact us by calling (919) 324-1964 or filling out our contact form to learn more.