You have the degree, now what do you want to do with it? There are a wide range of jobs available to those with a degree in civil engineering, but not every opportunity is created equal. Find the job you want within civil engineering by understanding the industry and the field. Here’s what you need to know.
A Variety of Job Opportunities
There are many jobs available within the discipline of civil engineering, such as building surveyor, structural engineer, water engineer, nuclear engineer, and transport planner, among others.
Graduates can generally work across a range of sectors, particularly in construction, infrastructure development, consultancy, and planning. Opportunities are available globally, and many countries that are focusing on improving their infrastructure will be actively looking to recruit civil engineering graduates.
Mastering the Essential Functions
Civil engineers are responsible for the preparation of work procedures, installation and test packages, and associated support documentation. They analyze project problems and make recommendations for corrective actions. They monitor scope, budgets, and schedules to ensure project objectives are achieved. They work with a variety of cross-functional stakeholders and need to be able to communicate and work with a broad range of professionals. The most important skills for a civil engineer include analytical skills, communication skills, decision-making skills, management skills, and writing skills.
Required Skills
Engineers regularly analyze information, plans, and data from a wide variety of sources, and use statistical techniques to provide solutions. Knowledge of GIS systems and mapping are very helpful in civil engineering careers. But that’s not enough on its own. Successful professionals must be able to communicate clearly and effectively in presentations and plans with a wide variety of audiences, such as public officials, interest groups, and community members. A balance of creative thinking and realistic problem solving will go a long way toward providing the necessary skills. Engineers often struggle with soft skills such as communication or people management. Still, these skills are what will drive your career forward in a field of otherwise very technically adept engineers with similar skill sets and abilities. Consider what unique skills you bring to the table and lean into your strengths to help differentiate yourself and your career.
Ongoing Education and Training
Most engineers have at least a master’s degree from an accredited urban or regional planning program, or directly in civil engineering. Many of those students who enter such a program have a bachelor’s degree in math or sciences disciplines. But keep in mind that civil engineers must be interdisciplinary, team-oriented, and creative to become global leaders in building a better planet. That provides great opportunities to seek education and training in unique and specialized disciplines to help broaden your knowledge base. Complementary degrees to a civil engineering career include economics, geography, political science, or environmental design.
Are You Prepared for a Long and Successful Career?
For more tips on how to prepare for a long and successful career as a civil engineer, connect with the recruiters at ESGI today.
