CH2M Hill, a global engineering and consulting organization, offers a wide variety of career opportunities across engineering, construction, project management, administration, and technical support. As we look toward 2026, understanding the salary landscape at CH2M Hill is crucial for job seekers, employees evaluating offers, and professionals planning their career growth.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down salary ranges, what influences earnings, how experience affects pay, job market trends, benefits, job outlook, and how education or certifications can impact your compensation.
Average CH2M Hill Salary in 2026
In 2026, the average annual salary at CH2M Hill varies significantly depending on role and data source, reflecting a diverse workplace with technical, managerial, and support functions.
- General average salary: Around $86,400 per year based on current U.S. estimates from compensation databases.
- Broader estimates: Some platforms note ranges from approximately $75,000 to $98,000+ annually depending on job role and experience.
- Specialized roles and leadership positions can earn significantly more, while internships or junior technical roles fall at the lower end of the pay scale.
| Salary Category | Estimated 2026 Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Roles | $34,000 – $60,000 | Internships, junior assistants, technicians |
| Mid-Level Professionals | $60,000 – $90,000 | Engineers, planners, project coordinators |
| Senior-Level & Specialists | $90,000+ | Senior engineers, managers, design leads |
| Leadership & Executive | $100,000+ | Directors, senior project managers (varies widely) |
Key Factors Influencing CH2M Hill Salaries
Several important factors determine how much you can earn at CH2M Hill:
1. Job Role & Function
Different positions pay differently:
- Engineering and specialized technical roles generally command higher salaries.
- Administrative and support roles tend to be on the lower end.
2. Experience & Seniority
Experience is a major driver of pay:
- Early-career professionals may start with lower pay but can grow quickly with experience.
- Senior-level roles typically earn significantly higher salaries.
3. Location
Salaries at CH2M Hill vary by region due to cost of living and local job market dynamics:
- Higher pay in states like California and Washington compared to lower-paying regions.
4. Industry & Department
Certain departments such as IT or government contracting tend to offer higher average pay compared with administrative or facilities teams.
5. Education & Certifications
A bachelor’s degree — especially in engineering or related fields — boosts earning potential. Advanced degrees or professional certifications like PMP, PE, or industry‑specific credentials further enhance pay prospects.
CH2M Hill Salary by Experience Level
Experience level is a major determinant of salary growth. Here’s an overview:
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
- Typical roles: Intern, Assistant, Junior Technician
- Estimated salary: $34,000 – $60,000
- Focus: Building foundational skills, learning project protocols.
Mid-Level (3–7 Years)
- Typical roles: Engineer, Planner, Project Management Support
- Estimated salary: $60,000 – $90,000
- Focus: Managing tasks independently, leading small projects, refining expertise.
Senior-Level (8+ Years)
- Typical roles: Senior Engineer, Project Manager, Technical Specialist
- Estimated salary: $90,000+
- Focus: Leadership, complex project oversight, strategy.
Leadership and executive roles at CH2M Hill can command significantly higher compensation reflecting broad responsibility, often entering six‑figure territory.
Industry and Role Salary Comparison
Here’s how average CH2M Hill salaries compare across key roles and related industry peers:
| Role / Company | Estimated Avg. Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CH2M Hill (Overall) | ~$86,400 | Companywide average estimate |
| Senior Piping Designer | $123,000+ | Among the highest within engineering specialties |
| Project Manager | ~$100,000 | Common mid‑senior role pay |
| GIS Analyst | ~$60,000 | Technical support tier |
| CDM Smith (Competitor) | ~$80,400 | Comparable engineering firm pay |
| Carollo Engineers (Competitor) | ~$77,300 | Benchmark within sector |
This table highlights how CH2M Hill’s compensation often aligns with or exceeds competitors in the engineering and environmental consulting space, especially for specialized technical roles.
Benefits and Perks at CH2M Hill
Compensation at CH2M Hill often extends beyond base salary and may include:
- Health & wellness benefits: Medical, dental, and vision plans
- Retirement planning: 401(k) or pension options with employer contributions
- Paid time off & leave benefits: Vacation, sick leave, parental leave
- Professional development: Training programs, mentorship, leadership cultivation
- Flexible work arrangements (varies by role)
These benefits significantly enhance total compensation and support work‑life balance.
Job Market Trends & Outlook in 2026
Steady Demand in Engineering and Environmental Sectors
CH2M Hill continues to operate in infrastructure, environmental engineering, and project delivery — sectors expected to maintain consistent demand through 2026 as governments and private clients invest in sustainability and infrastructure upgrades.
Project Growth in Key Regions
Regions like California, Colorado, and the Pacific Northwest remain focal points for infrastructure investment, supporting higher talent demand and competitive pay.
Impact of Automation
While digital tools and automation streamline workflows, the need for experienced engineers, project managers, and technical specialists remains strong. Skilled professionals are less likely to be replaced and more likely to see salary growth.
Education & Certification Impact on Salary
Investing in credentials can significantly impact salary:
Valuable Credentials
- Professional Engineer (PE) License
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Master’s Degrees in engineering, environmental science, or business administration
These credentials signal expertise and leadership potential, often leading to higher‑paying responsibilities and faster advancement.
Education vs. Pay Scale
Data suggests degree holders at CH2M Hill can have wide salary ranges, with specialized degrees (e.g., engineering) often associated with higher compensation.
Conclusion
The CH2M Hill jobs salary landscape in 2026 reflects a robust mix of roles and compensation levels. With general averages around $86,000 annually, opportunities for higher earnings expand significantly with experience, technical specialization, location, and advanced credentials. Whether you’re entering the workforce or aiming to grow your career, CH2M Hill offers competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and strong career pathways that align with industry trends.