Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Civil Engineering & Land Surveying Experts Since 1953
California Engineering Company has been a trusted leader in civil engineering and land surveying since 1953. Our firm combines decades of experience with cutting-edge technology to deliver tailored infrastructure solutions for municipalities, developers, and landowners across Northern California. We specialize in public works projects, water and wastewater systems, roadway design, and land surveying, ensuring each project aligns with community needs and environmental standards. Our team of licensed professionals brings unparalleled expertise in construction administration, funding procurement, and expert witness services, supported by over 70 years of industry leadership.We prioritize clear communication, efficient budgeting, and innovative design to transform complex challenges into lasting, reliable solutions. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in long-standing partnerships with cities like Clearlake and Colusa, where we serve as trusted advisors and adjunct staff. Recognized for our integrity and technical proficiency, we remain dedicated to advancing infrastructure that strengthens communities and drives sustainable growth.
Services
Civil Engineering
Land Surveying
Construction Administration
Funding Procurement
Utility Locating
Details
- Year established: 1953
Highlights and features
- We offer 70+ years of experience in Northern California infrastructure projects.
- Our team includes licensed civil engineers and land surveyors with public sector expertise.
- We provide end-to-end project management from funding procurement to construction closeout.
- Our patented utility locating methods reduce project delays and costs.
- We maintain long-term partnerships with cities like Clearlake and Colusa since 2014.
What people say
Instrumental in revitalization
Great communicators
Exceeded expectations
Dedicated partnership
Instrumental contributions
Services
Civil Engineering
We provide comprehensive civil engineering services for municipal and private clients, specializing in water systems, wastewater treatment plants, storm drainage, and roadway design. Our team ensures compliance with environmental regulations while optimizing infrastructure for long-term durability. With expertise in both public works and land development, we deliver solutions that balance technical precision with community needs.
Land Surveying
Our land surveying services include topographic mapping, ALTA surveys, and boundary determinations using advanced geospatial technology. We support property development, FEMA elevation certifications, and subdivision projects with high-accuracy data. Our licensed surveyors ensure legal compliance and minimize risks for residential and commercial clients.
Construction Administration
We manage construction projects from bidding to closeout, providing contract administration, change order processing, and on-site observation. Our team coordinates with contractors to maintain quality standards and timelines. With experience in public infrastructure and private development, we ensure projects meet design specifications and budget requirements.
Funding Procurement
We assist clients in securing funding through state and federal programs like Community Development Block Grants and USDA Rural Utilities Services. Our team navigates grant applications and compliance requirements to maximize financial support for infrastructure projects. This service helps municipalities implement critical improvements with reduced financial burden.
Underground Utility Locating
Using ground-penetrating radar (GPR), we accurately map subsurface utilities to prevent damage during construction. This service minimizes potholing and reduces project delays. Our non-invasive technology ensures safe excavation for water, sewer, and storm drain systems while maintaining compliance with safety standards.
People
David Swartz
Chief Executive Officer
Licensed civil engineer and land surveyor with 30+ years of experience in public infrastructure. Serves as City Engineer for Colusa and adjunct staff for multiple municipalities. Expert in CEQA compliance and expert witness testimony.
Marisa Hewitt
Project Engineer
Licensed professional engineer specializing in municipal infrastructure projects. Coordinates with clients to ensure designs meet technical and regulatory requirements. Plays key role in Clearlake's infrastructure revitalization since 2018.
Daniel Ingoglia
Senior Project Engineer
Experienced in civil engineering design and project management for public works. Focuses on water systems and roadway improvements. Provides technical leadership for complex infrastructure projects across Northern California.
Roger Wilkins
Survey Manager
Manages land surveying operations with expertise in boundary surveys and construction staking. Ensures accuracy in mapping for subdivision and development projects. Oversees field teams and data processing.
Jennifer Priddy
Office Manager
Coordinates administrative operations and client communications. Ensures efficient project workflow between engineering teams and clients. Manages office logistics for Chico and Yuba City locations.
Questions
What civil engineering services do you offer?
We specialize in water systems, wastewater treatment, roadway design, storm drainage, and infrastructure masterplanning for municipalities and developers.
How long has CEC been in business?
Since 1953, providing civil engineering and land surveying services across Northern California.
Do you handle public infrastructure projects?
Yes, we partner with cities and special districts on aging infrastructure replacement and new public works projects.
Can you assist with grant funding applications?
We help secure grants from programs like USDA Rural Utilities Services and State Water Resources Control Board.
What surveying technologies do you use?
We employ ground-penetrating radar (GPR) and advanced geospatial tools for accurate subsurface utility mapping and boundary surveys.
Do you offer expert witness services?
Yes, our licensed engineers provide litigation support and expert testimony for infrastructure-related legal cases.
