How to become A Structural Engineer

Structural Engineering is the construction of a supernature -- an expression of a nation’s culture -- to fulfill the needs of humankind. Structural Engineering is about investigating the immediate loads and demands on the structure, as well as any likely future changes to ensure a structure is designed to withstand those loads.

• Civil Engineer
• Stress Engineer
• Construction Engineer

What do Structural Engineers do?

A Structural Engineer would typically need to:

• Analyze detailed maps, blueprints, and charts to determine the best way to design new projects and repair existing ones
• Calculate and analyze the pressures, stresses, and strains that each component, such as a beam or lintel, will experience other parts of the structure due to human use or environmental pressures such as weather or earthquakes
• Design new builds
• Investigate both the immediate loads and demands on the structure as well as any likely future changes
• Design refurbishment schemes to ensure long life for existing structures
• Write detailed project reports & cost estimates for proposed building and repair projects, including timetable, material, and construction data
• Make drawings, specifications and computer models of structures for building contractors
• Work with geotechnical engineers to investigate ground conditions; analyze the results of soil samples and in situ tests
• Work on projects ranging from a house to a hospital, and from an oil rig to a bridge
• Work closely with architects
• Supervise other engineers and construction crew and stay involved in every stage when responsible for the design and creation of infrastructure projects such as pipelines and bridges
• Hire other engineering professionals for large-scale building and repair projects; act as supervisors to keep projects moving ahead on schedule
• Apply expert knowledge of the forces that act on various structures; use computers and computer-aided design (CAD) technology for simulation purposes

As a Structural Engineer, you could work on a construction site, demolition site, commercial building, commercial land, or an office. Structural Engineering design is normally office-based, except for site visits, before the start of a project to take measurements and understand limitations. A final site visit is essential to check that what you propose can be built.

During the construction stage, the work is mostly site-based, with minimum office work. During construction, a resident engineer usually carries out day-to-day supervision and confirms that the building does what the designer intended.

The dress code would be business casual unless otherwise specified. Structural Engineers need to wear appropriate safety equipment when visiting sites.

Working hours are usually from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m, Monday to Friday with work occasionally extending over evenings and weekends. The hours can be longer for site-based Engineers, especially if there are time constraints concerning the project deadline.

There may be times when external conditions affect the available working time, and working overtime may be required. Environmental regulations may limit the working hours in residential areas.

A Structural Engineer may work in tandem with a contractor, consultant, or local authority. University departments employ Structural Engineers as lecturers and researchers. Most Structural Engineers work in engineering consultancies from large international companies to small firms.

Structural Engineers are generally employed by:

• Aircraft Manufacturers
• Local Authorities
• Oil Companies
• Railway Operators

Professional associations and organizations are a crucial resource for those interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more looks excellent on your resume to bolster your credentials and qualifications as a Structural Engineer. Most Structural Engineers belong to a trade union of national or international caliber.

• Working environment may be cramped, dusty, noisy, and outdoors, depending on the needs of the project

Relevant work experience will improve skills, build contacts, help you network, and better your employment chances. Most degree courses offer a year in the industry. Employers usually offer sponsorship, vacation work, and 'year out' placements, which can provide valuable contacts and a useful insight into the profession.

Companies offer to sponsor students through their studies by providing an agreed sum of money for one, two, three, or four years of study. Companies that offer a significant sum of money expect the student to work for them for a certain number of years after completing their studies. However, companies now prefer to offer smaller sums of money and opportunities to work through vacations, sandwich years, or placements.

A ‘year out,’ a ‘gap year,’ or ‘sabbatical year’ is a year away from full-time study between the completion of further full-time education (usually at school or college) and before the beginning of further full-time education. The student may get to choose the type of work they apply for, rather than be constrained by their course of study.

A four-year undergraduate degree in either Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering or Architectural Engineering or Civil and Structural Engineering is a prerequisite to become a Structural Engineer.

Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a branch of engineering other than those mentioned above or in science will need an MSc in Structural Engineering to stand a chance in this job market. Employers prefer candidates who have advanced master’s degrees or a PhD over those with a bachelor’s degree.

Some companies require Structural Engineers to have a professional engineer license or Structural Engineer registration. However, licensure is not required for entry-level positions as a civil engineer.

A professional engineer’s license can usually be obtained after working for four years under a licensed professional engineer and passing tests given by the relevant licensing board. Passing the appropriate exam will get you the certification in Structural Engineering.

Starting as a construction designer, one can progress to become a Project Manager or Functional Manager. You may work alone while liaising closely with all the other construction professionals involved, or as part of a project team. While career progression opportunities are minimal in small companies, most large organizations have a formal progression structure for a Structural Engineer.

As a Structural Engineer, there are many opportunities to work on international projects. Gaining chartered status with recognized organizations like the IStructE allows for professional recognition in an increasing number of countries around the world.

As a Chartered Member, one can work to become a Fellow of the IStructE, building a significant amount of experience and meeting an exacting set of standards. It is the most senior grade of membership available and is recognition of excellence in Structural Engineering.

In addition to building construction, one can work in Construction Design, Project Management, or Research and Lecturing as a Structural Engineer. With experience, you could move into Consultancy work, providing services to building insurers. Opportunities are also present overseas on construction and engineering projects, such as those within disaster relief agencies.

Structural Engineers aspiring to become Project Managers or Functional Managers would typically first need to obtain a professional engineering license relevant to their location, in the situation that only licensed engineers can assume responsibilities for public projects. A professional Structural Engineer can oversee the work of other engineers, approve design plans, sign off on projects, and provide services directly to the public.

Candidates with a master’s or PhD in the field and certification and adequate experience will have a better chance of employment.

As a Structural Engineer, one may want to work towards the professional status of associate or chartered member with reputed organizations such as the IStructE, the Institute of Structural Engineering. A chartered member post requires a master’s degree.

Trainees gain experience in the workplace to match specific core objectives identified by the organization. Many employers offer structured training schemes to ensure the fulfillment of these requirements. An interview with qualified engineers and a final examination usually form part of the course requirements.

Structural Engineering is a subdivision of civil engineering and is considered one of the oldest engineering fields known to humans. The pyramids may be the earliest examples of Structural Engineering wonders. Today, a Structural Engineer makes sure that a structural design created by architects is practical. On the other side of all those skyscrapers and bridges that populate the world are dedicated Structural Engineers who have saved millions of lives since the beginning of the construction industry.

Structural Engineering is one of the oldest professions, producing engineering feats such as the Eiffel Tower and Roman Aqueducts.

Structural Engineering underpins wealth creation; it provides a bedrock of infrastructure that supports civilized living: homes for people to live in, places to work, and the lifeline systems we all need.

My buildings will be my legacy. They will speak for me, long after I’m gone.