The earnings depend on the industries employing civil engineers such as Central or State government departments  or private concerns. In India, a bachelor's degree candidate in civil engineering can receive a starting salary of Rs.4000 up to Rs 7500 approximately with 2-3 years experience. With more experience or as an established independent consultant one could earn more. Most employers prefer candidates with Computer (Autocad) knowledge. 

Companies abroad in Singapore, UAE etc pay Rs 15000-20,000 approximately for candidates with 2-3 years experience. In USA, according to a 2001 salary survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, a bachelor's degree candidate as an initial salary offers averaging $40,616 a year, master's degree candidates received an average offer of $44,080, and Ph.D. candidates were offered $62,280.