In this article, we will look at the 20 highest paying countries for civil engineers. We have also discussed the global civil engineering market. If you want to skip our detailed analysis, head straight to the 5 Highest Paying Countries for Civil Engineers.
The global civil engineering market is set for a major growth as it expects achieving a value of $13,700.9 billion by 2030, exhibiting a strong compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% from 2023 to 2030. This growth is primarily attributed to an increase in infrastructure and capital projects worldwide. The construction segment accounted for over 27.7% of the global revenue of the industry in 2022 and is anticipated to spearhead this expansion, fueled by escalating demand for various civil works such as rail structures, tunnels, and bridges, driven by population growth and traffic concerns.
Moreover, there's a considerable shift towards sustainable construction practices, with companies increasingly adopting eco-friendly products and energy-efficient solutions. Innovative materials like cross-laminated timber (CLT) are gaining traction for their lightweight and cost-effective properties, promising to revolutionize the construction landscape in the coming years.
For example, Fluor Corp (NYSE:FLR) has been selected by H2 Green Steel for engineering, procurement, and construction management services at the world's first renewable hydrogen-based 'green steel' mill in Boden, Sweden. Expected to produce five million tonnes of steel annually by 2030, Fluor Corp (NYSE:FLR) aims for up to 95% less CO2 emissions compared to traditional blast furnace technology. The initial cost estimate of roughly €2.5 billion has more than doubled, with a €6.5 billion project including one of the world's largest electrolyser hydrogen plants onsite. H2 Green Steel secured a €250 million grant under the Innovation Fund to accelerate decarbonization efforts, emphasizing the project's significance in sustainable steelmaking and Europe's green transition.
Moreover, Fluor Corp (NYSE:FLR) has also secured two contracts from Dow for constructing the world’s first net-zero scope 1 and 2 emissions integrated ethylene cracker and derivatives complex in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada. Valued at over $3 billion, these reimbursable services contracts encompass engineering, procurement, and construction management for both a new ethylene cracker unit and utilities, power, and infrastructure facilities. This project is part of Dow’s Path2Zero program aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing capacity. Fluor Corp (NYSE:FLR)’s long-standing partnership with Dow underscores their commitment to sustainable chemical production and supports both the companies’ goal of decarbonizing its global footprint.
It is also interesting to note that governments have emerged as the largest customer segment for civil engineering, driven by an increasing demand for infrastructure development, transportation facilities, and housing projects. Increased government expenditure on regional development initiatives further propels market growth, creating high-paying opportunities for industry players. The market's landscape remains fragmented, with key players such as AECOM (NYSE:ACM) and Fluor Corp (NYSE:FLR), among others, dominating the space, offering a range of services from planning and design to construction and maintenance.
Speaking of AECOM (NYSE:ACM), the company is proudly continuing its legacy as Fortune magazine has recognized it among the World’s Most Admired Companies for a remarkable tenth year in a row. This accolade underscores AECOM (NYSE:ACM)’s commitment to excellence and innovation, propelled by its global workforce exceeding 50,000 dedicated professionals. Throughout fiscal 2023, AECOM (NYSE:ACM) achieved major milestones, including maintaining top-tier safety standards, enhancing technical expertise through award-winning programs, and surpassing strategic and financial objectives with a design backlog at record levels and a remarkable project win rate exceeding 70%.
It is worth highlighting that the US construction spending increased in December, 2023 surpassing expectations with a 0.9% increase, driven by a 13.9% year-on-year rise. Residential construction, particularly single-family homebuilding, remained strong, supportedby lower mortgage rates during a persistent housing shortage, notably in California. The Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates steady and their anticipation of future decreases further bolster optimism for increased home construction in the coming months. However, growth in multi-family housing projects is expected to be limited due to increased rental vacancy rates and an ample supply pipeline.
Meanwhile, private non-residential structures saw a slight decline, attributed in part to fading momentum from government policies aimed at revitalizing semiconductor manufacturing. Public construction projects, on the other hand, experienced a notable 1.3% increase, driven by increased spending at both the state and federal levels.
20 Highest Paying Countries for Civil Engineers
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Our Methodology
To list the highest paying countries for civil engineers, we identified the countries with the highest demand for civil engineers and then made a list for 35 countries with the average salaries for civil engineers. Of those 35, the 20 with the highest average salaries were selected and have been ranked. We acquired the data for average salaries of civil engineers by country from ERI Economic Research Institute. The list is presented in ascending order.
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20. Sweden
Average Salary: $64,187
Sweden is a great place for civil engineers due to its strong infrastructure development, innovative sustainable practices, and emphasis on urban planning. With a high standard of living, ample opportunities for research and development, and a commitment to environmental conservation, Sweden offers an ideal environment for civil engineering professionals to thrive.
19. Singapore
Average Salary: $64,353
Singapore is an excellent hub for civil engineers owing to its second-to-none infrastructure projects and commitment to cutting-edge urban development. The Marina Bay Sands integrated resort, featuring a unique design and complex construction, exemplifies Singapore's engineering prowess. Additionally, the Marina Barrage showcases innovative flood control solutions and sustainable water management practices. It is one of the highest paying countries for civil engineers in Asia.
18. Italy
Average Salary: $66,214
Italy ranks 18th in our list with an average salary of $66,214 per year. Two top companies in civil engineering in Italy are Salini Impregilo and Webuild (formerly known as Astaldi). Salini Impregilo has a rich history of infrastructure projects worldwide, including highways, railways, and dams.
Italy is one of the countries that pay the highest salary to engineers.
17. France
Average Salary: $74,078
France is one of the countries with one of the highest labor shhortages in the world as well as in Europe. One of the most crucial sectors it is facing shortages in is the construction sector. Hence, the demand for civil engineers is strong currently and is expected to stay strong in the near future. France is also one of the countries with a high demand for structural engineers.
16. New Zealand
Average Salary: $74,710
New Zealand's high quality of life, welcoming culture, and work-life balance contribute to a fulfilling career experience for civil engineers, making it a top choice for those seeking both professional excellence and personal satisfaction in their field. Owing to the high salaries, it is one of the best countries for civil engineering jobs.
15. United Kingdom
Average Salary: $74,775
The UK offers promising prospects for a career in civil engineering owing to its highly developed infrastructure sector and renowned companies like Arup and Balfour Beatty. Arup, a global firm, offers roles in diverse projects spanning from sustainable infrastructure to urban planning. Balfour Beatty, a leading construction company, provides opportunities in major infrastructure projects nationwide. It is one of the countries where civil engineers are paid the most.
14. Finland
Average Salary: $78,721
Civil engineers in Finland have access to cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, contributing to innovative projects. Owing to the high quality of education in the country, Finland is also one of the best countries to study civil engineering.
13. Canada
Average Salary: $79,307
In Canada, demand for civil engineers is expected to remain high from 2022 to 2031, with 26,100 new job openings anticipated but only 32,300 new job seekers expected to be available. This continuation of labor shortage conditions suggests a persistent imbalance between job supply and demand in this occupational group.
12. United Arab Emirates
Average Salary: $81,716
With rapid urbanization and infrastructural development, there's a constant demand for skilled professionals. Projects like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah showcase groundbreaking engineering feats. Moreover, the reputation of UAE as a country with tax-free income and generous benefits further attracts talent from around the world.
11. Iceland
Average Salary: $82,276
Becoming a civil engineer in Iceland offers the opportunity to contribute to sustainable infrastructure development amidst unique geological challenges like volcanic activity and harsh weather conditions. With a focus on renewable energy and innovative design, civil engineers play a vital role in shaping resilient and eco-friendly communities in Iceland.
10. Netherlands
Average Salary: $85,058
Civil engineers with an eye for innovation and a drive to tackle real-world challenges should consider the Netherlands in 2024. The country faces a skilled labor shortage in engineering, opening doors for ambitious individuals. Furthermore, the Dutch are known for their focus on sustainable and cutting-edge solutions, offering the chance to be part of groundbreaking projects. Netherlands is one of the top-paying countries for civil engineers.
9. Austria
Average Salary: $85,405
In 2024, Austria continues to have a booming infrastructure sector, fueled by government investment in sustainable transportation, renewable energy, and urban development projects. This translates to ample job opportunities in various specializations for civil engineers like designing bridges, tunnels, and energy-efficient buildings.
8. Norway
Average Salary: $86,449
The high demand for civil engineers in Norway stems from the robust growth of its construction market. Valued at $81.1 billion in 2022, with an anticipated AAGR of over 1% during 2024-2027, the sector is buoyed by investments in key areas like transport and renewable energy. Residential construction, infrastructure development, and energy projects are major contributors to this demand. It is one of the top 10 highest paying countries for civil engineers.
7. Germany
Average Salary: $87,344
Germany has one of the world's top economies and has a 10% projected growth in civil engineering employment from 2020 to 2030. With an annual salary $87,344 on average, it offers financial stability. Moreover, Germany's infrastructure projects, like Stuttgart 21 and Frankfurt Airport Terminal 3, provide stimulating work opportunities.
It is one of the highest paying countries for civil engineers in Europe.
6. Australia
Average Salary: $87,475
The demand for civil engineers and engineers in Australia is general is experiencing huge growth, driven by strong government investments in infrastructure, defense, and renewable energy sectors. With $237 billion worth of major public infrastructure projects in the pipeline over the next five years, engineers are in high demand. Engineering vacancies have increased by 22%, with an 80% increase in demand over the past 24 months. Despite challenges such as labor scarcity and rising construction material costs, engineering remains one of the strongest professions in demand.
Australia is one of the best countries for civil engineering.