Without civil engineers, the world around us would cease to exist. These engineers specialize in designing and constructing the infrastructure we rely on to get us from point A to point B, commercial buildings that stimulate the economy, and even sewer systems that make our homes sanitary.
Without them, traveling would be increasingly difficult, and our skylines might not be as impressive. Civil engineers are responsible for making our cities as accessible and easy to navigate as possible.
Take a look at the major responsibilities of civil engineers, their pay range, and the industries they commonly work in.
What Is a Civil Engineer?
Civil engineering involves designing, planning, and managing infrastructure projects. This broad field includes building and maintaining roads, bridges, buildings, water supply networks, and sewage systems.
To succeed in this difficult specialty, civil engineers must combine scientific principles with innovative thinking to create solutions that enhance our communities. The field is in high demand in the United States because it constantly evolves with technological advancements and societal needs, driving continuous improvement and adaptation.
What Do Civil Engineers Do?
Civil engineers are essential in shaping, enhancing, and safeguarding the environments where we live and work. They are key players in planning, designing, and overseeing the construction and maintenance of diverse infrastructure projects.
These projects include transportation systems such as roads, railways, and airports; structural works like bridges, harbors, and dams; and essential services, including irrigation, power plants, and water and sewage systems.
Civil engineers also design and construct high-rise buildings and large structures capable of withstanding various weather conditions.
Civil engineers generally specialize in two main areas: consulting and contracting.
- Consulting Engineers: These engineers focus on project design and planning. They work primarily in office settings, creating detailed plans and specifications for infrastructure projects. Their role involves extensive research, analysis, and the use of design software to ensure that every aspect of the project meets the necessary standards and regulations.
- Contracting Engineers: Once project designs are completed, contracting engineers take over to make the vision come to life. They work on-site to manage and execute the construction based on the consultant’s designs. Their responsibilities include coordinating with construction teams, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and addressing any issues that arise during the building process. Contractors are pivotal in bringing the blueprints to life, ensuring the projects are completed efficiently and effectively.
Common Types of Civil Engineers
Civil engineering is at the heart of community development. That means even entry-level engineers can impact their communities. Here are common types of civil engineering positions you can find yourself in:
- General Civil Engineering: General civil engineers plan, design, and manage construction projects like roads, bridges, and water systems. They assess sites, ensure regulatory compliance, oversee construction, and collaborate with specialists to complete projects on time and within budget.
- Structural Engineering: Structural engineers design and analyze buildings, bridges, and other construction to ensure they can withstand forces such as gravity, earthquakes, and wind. They ensure the safety, durability, and stability of structures using calculations and selecting appropriate materials.
- Environmental Engineering: Environmental engineers address environmental challenges like pollution, waste management, and sustainable resource use. They design systems to improve water and air quality, manage waste, and develop eco-friendly practices to protect the environment.
- Transportation Engineering: Transportation engineers design, construct, and maintain transportation systems, including roads, railways, airports, and highways. They optimize traffic flow, ensure safety, and consider environmental and regulatory impacts in their projects.
- Construction Engineering: Construction engineers oversee the planning and execution of construction projects. They ensure materials and methods meet safety standards, manage logistics, and coordinate with various stakeholders to ensure timely and efficient project completion.
- Water Resources/Wastewater Engineering: Water engineers are responsible for managing the design of civil engineering projects in areas including water treatment, water distribution, wastewater treatment, wastewater collection systems, and stormwater services.
What Skills Do Civil Engineers Need?
Civil engineers need certain skills to create a safe and awe-inspiring environment. To be successful in this career, you need to possess the following skills:
- Advanced Math
- Solid Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Project Management
- Creativity
- Understanding of Local Legislation
- Collaboration
How to Get a Job in Civil Engineering
As of 2023, the median pay for civil engineers was $95,890. To get a job in civil engineering, you will need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field.
To be successful after college, it’s vital to get as much hands-on experience as possible. This will help you gain those necessary skills you need and will set you apart from other candidates when applying for jobs.
Since civil engineering is built around the development of public and private infrastructure, it’s important to educate yourself on the laws and regulations of the city and state that you work in. Doing this will help you stay flexible and knowledgeable about innovations in the field.
Are you looking for a job in civil engineering? Austin Nichols Technical Search is here to help entry-level and experienced civil engineers find career-defining opportunities. Contact us today to speak to one of our dedicated recruiters.
