How to become A Civil Engineer

• Transportation Engineer
• City Engineer

What do Civil Engineers do?

A Civil Engineer would typically need to:

• Design, construct, rebuild and maintain physical structures such as roads, bridges, tunnels, railways, dams, harbours, power plants, and airports
• Develop detailed designs using various computer software programs and complex calculations
• Perform site investigations in addition to technical and feasibility studies to continuously evaluate structural integrity and design practicality
• Analyse photos, drawings, and maps to determine project estimates of time and resources; review government regulations and ordinances 
• Compile job specs; acquire, assess and pick the most feasible tender; resolve design and development issues
• Prepare and implement project plans that make use of a variety of materials
• Collaborate with team members, vendors, clients, and professionals such as architects and subcontractors
• Optimise budgets and project resources; coordinate material and equipment purchases and deliveries
• Ensure project compliance with local health and safety regulations; determine the sustainability and environmental impact of the project
• Offer viable options to issues

Civil Engineers typically work in offices. At times, they may have to work on-site to monitor projects in the field. Contracting Engineers who focus on managing the structure’s construction may need to work outside in all weather conditions.

Consulting Civil Engineers generally work regular office hours. Contracting Engineers may find themselves working shifts and weekends regularly. They may also have to work overtime and weekends close to project deadlines.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Civil Engineers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Civil Engineers are generally employed by: 

• Construction Companies 
• Local Authorities & Government Departments
• Rail Companies
• Utility Companies

Professional associations and organisations, such as the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), are crucial for Civil Engineers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. 

Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Dealing with physical challenges and potential hazards on construction sites
• Managing health and safety concerns that arise from excessive fugitive dust inhalation 
• Active work sites closed down due to environmental hazards such as contamination, sediment runoff, and natural disasters
• Having to work through various weather conditions

Any academic program that a potential Civil Engineer takes up typically requires a period of supervised experience, such as an internship, apprenticeship, co-op, a year-in-industry, or summer placement.

Read about the profession and interview/job shadow experts working in civil engineering to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

Prospective Civil Engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, one of its specialities, or civil engineering technology. Such programs generally include coursework in mathematics, statistics, engineering mechanics & systems, and fluid dynamics. 

Take advanced classes in physics, biology, mathematics, and computer science in high school to gain easy access to desirable colleges and universities.

Certification demonstrates a Civil Engineer’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. 

Certification in safety, project management, construction management, sustainable design & construction, and erosion & sediment control from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your chances of advancement. 

Civil Engineers with consistently high levels of performance and adequate experience may be eligible for promotion into senior positions. They may become Project Managers or Functional Managers of design, construction, operation, or maintenance. 

You can choose to pursue management opportunities to coordinate entire projects and supervise other engineers and labourers.

Candidates with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, one of its specialities, or civil engineering technology and desirable work experience, have the best job prospects. 

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Civil Engineer build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. 

It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

Usually, Civil Engineers start their careers as engineers in training (EITs); they pursue a relevant master’s program and pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam or its equivalent. 

After working for at least four years under the supervision of an experienced civil engineer, they can sit for the Professional Engineering (PE) exam. Successful candidates acquire the PE licence, which qualifies them for positions of higher leadership and independence.

Consultants vs Contractors

People looking to become Civil Engineers can either work as consulting civil engineers or contracting civil engineers. While consultants are in charge of project design and work in offices, contractors implement these designs during construction and work on-site.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Civil Engineers have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort, and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Civil Engineer has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

The Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the world’s seven wonders, is the earliest existing example of civil engineering. 

Picture a physically fit individual in a hard hat and work boots slogging away under a harsh sun or bitter rain to build unique structures that herald human progress - that is none other than a Civil Engineer devoting their life to ensure the rest of humanity lives in relative safety and comfort.

You must be open to asking as many questions as possible and learning as much as you can. Since you won't be expected to know everything, you need to speak up often and clear your doubts as a young engineer.