Civil Engineer Careers Information
Though architects often come to mind when we think of construction design, civil engineers are the people who take on the large public works projects such as roads, airports, dams, and bridges that make modern life possible.
Using highly sophisticated mathematical skills and computers to manipulate precise data, civil engineers design solutions to structural problems that are safe, long-lasting, and within budget. In doing so, they must consider the big picture: environmental issues, weather patterns, surrounding structures, community regulations, and sometimes even aesthetics.
Civil Engineer Careers Path
Almost all civil engineers have at least a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Some schools offer two to four year engineering technology degrees, but some employers may not accept such graduates for some types of work. Engineers in related fields, such as mechanical engineering, may be able to find work that is more akin to civil engineering.
For those who wish to be heavily involved in research or teach, graduate school is a must. All civil engineers should expect to continue their education throughout life in order to stay on top of new technologies as they are developed.
Civil Engineer Careers: Compatible Personality Traits
Excellent mathematical and computer skills, excellent spatial reasoning, good with data, problem solver, able to see a project through from beginning to end, good a communicated ideas to others.
Civil Engineer Interview
You might already be on your way to a civil engineer career. Read More from a Civil Engineer…
Civil Engineer Careers: Salary Expectations
Civil engineers earn an average salary of $68,600 a year with the middle fifty percent earning between $54,520 and $86,260. Civil engineers enjoy some of the best starting salaries of all college graduates, with an average first year salary of $48,509 for those with a Bachelor’s degree up to $62,275 for those with a Ph.D.
Civil Engineer Careers: Job Outlook
The job outlook for civil engineers is very strong in the coming years as the population grows and demands more infrastructure. Civil engineers should also find work repairing older public works and bringing them up to current code.
Since public works programs and construction projects are closely tied to the economy, however, civil engineers may find themselves in periods where less work is available and as a result may have to travel or relocate to areas where construction is occurring.
Civil Engineer Associations and Resources
American Society of Civil Engineers
Slightly off the Footpath
- Architect
- General Contractor
- Project Manager
- Transportation Management
- City Planner
Source: bls.gov/oco/ocos027.htm
