Introduction
As a civil engineer you will plan, design and manage construction
projects. These can range from the relatively small-scale,
for example bridge repairs through to large national
schemes, such as the building of a new stadium. All
civil engineers need a good understanding of design and
construction processes as well as of health and safety
issues. The role could include leading teams of other
engineers, perhaps from other organisations or firms.
Work Environment
Whilst predominantly office based, the work includes significant
elements of outside work involving regular exposure to disagreeable
or difficult surroundings/outside conditions, for example, regular
site visits to construction sites.
Daily Activities
- discussing requirements with the client and other professionals
(e.g. architects);
- analysing survey, mapping and materials-testing data with
computer modelling software;
- drawing up blueprints, using computer aided design (CAD)
packages;
- managing change, as the client may change their mind about the
design, and ensuring relevant parties are notified of changes in
the project;
- judging whether projects are workable by assessing materials,
costs and time requirements;
- assessing the environmental impact and risks connected to
projects;
- preparing bids for tenders, and reporting to clients, public
agencies and planning bodies;
- managing, directing and monitoring progress during each phase
of a project;
- monitoring the provision of materials;
- liaising with and directing the work of sub-contractors
employed on the project
- ensuring quality of workmanship;
- dealing with complaints from local people experiencing
disruption due to building works;
- making sure sites meet legal guidelines, and health and safety
requirements.
Skills & Interests
- excellent maths, science, and IT skills;
- the ability to explain design ideas and plans clearly;
- the ability to analyse large amounts of data and assess
solutions;
- confident decision-making ability;
- excellent communication skills;
- negotiate effectively;
- utilise design and site construction experience to evaluate the
technical input of others;
- manage conflict to an acceptable resolution;
- commitment to customer care;
- project management skills;
- the ability to work within budgets and to deadlines;
- good team working skills.
Entry Requirements
Possession of a Degree in Civil Engineering or closely related
subject and appropriate experience in a related discipline.
Alternatively, you could work your way up to become an engineer if
you are already in the industry, for example, working as an
engineering technician. By studying part-time or on the job
for a BTEC HNC/HND, foundation degree or degree, you could
eventually qualify.
Future Prospects & Opportunities
Usually, you will start your professional life as a civil engineer
on a graduate training scheme. These schemes give you the
chance to get involved in projects under the supervision of a
mentor, and are designed to develop your technical knowledge and
business skills. Over time, you would take on more
responsibility. Training schemes often last between one and
two years.
You could help your career development by working towards
incorporated or chartered status. To do this, you should
register with your professional industry body and apply to the
Engineering Council. The balancing of economic, social and
environmental objectives, both now and into the future, has become
known as sustainable development and this is increasingly a key
driver for organisational change.
Further Information & Services
Civil Engineering Contractors Association www.ceca.co.uk
Institution of Civil Engineers www.ice.org.uk
Careers Wales have produced Spotlight articles on careers
in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths): https://www.careerswales.com/en/spotlight-on-stem/ and
careers in construction: https://www.careerswales.com/en/spotlight-on-construction/
You may find further information about this area of work through
Careers Wales (www.careerswales.com/) or
in your local library, careers office or school careers
library.