Civil engineers are responsible for designing, planning and supervising construction projects. These projects could vary from buildings to bridges to dams. They not only create blueprints but also make sure local construction laws and environmental constraints are taken into account. Monitoring and maintaining these structures are also under the purview of civil engineers.
Education and Qualifications
Most civil engineers have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. Some specialize in a specific area by taking a master’s degree. Few pursue an MBA to lead a management career in large construction companies. A professional engineering license is a requirement in most states.
Responsibilities and a Day in the Life
Most project managers work a regular schedule of 8 hours a day and five days a week. But like any other profession, hours could vary based on many factors, specifically during the last phase of a project to meet deadlines.Â
Though daily responsibilities vary based on many factors; some of the common ones include the following:
- Gathering engineering requirements and other required details from the customer.
- Preparing designs using design software and drawing tools.
- Engaging with various stakeholders; communicating designs, structures, and other details.
- Preparing overall project plans based on blueprints, location maps, survey reports, and geological details.
- Estimating materials, equipment, and labor needed to determine project costs.
- Applying for permits and complying with guidelines and regulations.
- Assessing foundation requirements based on soil properties.
- Closely working with architects, contractors, and vendors to ensure projects progress properly.
- Managing the project budget and purchase equipment/materials
- Monitoring project progress and managing risks and delays.
- Ensuring design specifications, safety, and other mandatory standards are met.
- Managing inspection and the closing phase of the project.
- Managing repairs and maintenance of the structures as needed.
- Performing other related duties as needed.
Other Necessary Skills
- Excellent verbal and communication skills
- Creative and analytical skills
- Detail oriented skills
- Project management and supervising skills
- Multitasking ability
- Leadership skills
Salary
As always, salary can vary based on industry, company, experience, location, etc. According to BLS, the median salary is about $88K. Â
Job Growth
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about…
- 318K jobs in 2021
- The job outlook from 2021 to 2031 is 7% which is on par with the average job growth.
- Employment change 22K (2021 to 31)
Summary
If you are someone who finds the following characteristics appealing, you can consider civil engineering as your future career:
- Taking ownership of large projects end-to-end.
- Getting involved in the engineering aspect of buildings and man-made structures.
- Leading a multi-talented team.
- Working at various locations and conditions, both in the office as well as on-site.
