Job profile: Civil engineer

Civil engineers, sometimes known as structural engineers can work in a number of different fields including construction, transport, power, maritime and public sector.

What are the typical progression routes?

Job description - Civil Engineer

They perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures. They also work on facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbours, channels, dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, water and sewage system. Typically once the plans for an engineering project have been approved the work will start under the supervision of one or more civil engineers. However, a civil engineer is likely to be involved in the work at any point from the initial design to the final completion. It is an extremely varied and interesting career and offers opportunities at all levels of skill and expertise.
 
Activities
  • Plan and design transportation systems
  • Inspect project sites to monitor progress
  • Direct or participate in surveying to lay out installations
  • Test soils and materials to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations
  • Provide technical advice regarding design and construction
 
Competencies
  • Have a methodical approach to design and planning
  • Be able to produce accurate plans and drawings
  • Be able to work in and lead a team
  • Have a high standard of computer literacy
  • Have good communication skills
 
What are the routes in?
The usual qualification to train as a Civil Engineer is a degree in a relevant subject. However, it is also possible to begin training for craft or technician-level jobs straight from school with GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) in English, maths and science. From these you can then progress to eventually become a Civil Engineer. Graduate Apprenticeships are another option open to candidates in England.Generally the minimum qualifications for a degree course in civil engineering are three A-levels/four H grades, including maths and physics, and three other subjects at GCSE/S grade. At many universities, students without the necessary background in science and mathematics can qualify for engineering degree courses by taking a one-year foundation course.
 
Civil engineers tend to move jobs often to gain experience and responsibility, and switch between the public and private sectors. There are many opportunities to work abroad, particularly in the developing world and in crisis work, e.g. after earthquakes, during droughts and at times of war. Overseas, there are good opportunities with British firms of consulting or contracting engineers working for foreign governments, or with international oil and mining companies.There may be opportunities for promotion to posts such as chief engineer, associate or partner. Promotion will depend on proven ability and experience. Local authorities and government departments have formal promotion structures
 
What is the work like?
Civil engineers may work for many different clients, including overseas governments. They normally work a 37 hour week, however hours can be much longer on site and may include evenings and weekends. Site engineers and managers may be on 24 hour call. Many different types of organisations employ civil engineering graduates, such as consulting firms, which usually specialise in certain types of project, such as roads, power stations or docks and harbours. Gas and electricity supply companies also employ civil engineers to design storage, generating and distribution systems. Obviously this makes the type of work they will be involved in very varied.