Civil Engineer

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Civil Engineers design and manage construction projects, from bridges and buildings to transport links and sports stadiums.

 

Depending on your specialism, you could be:

  • planning with the client
  • analysing surveys, testing and mapping data using computer modelling software
  • creating blueprints using computer aided design (CAD)
  • judging if projects are worth doing by looking at costs, time and labour
  • checking risks and the effects on the environment
  • preparing bids for tenders, and reporting to clients and government agencies
  • managing and checking progress at each stage
  • making sure sites follow health and safety rules
You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
You’ll need to study a foundation degree, higher national diploma, or degree in civil engineering.

Many universities specialise in particular areas of civil engineering such as structural engineering, environmental engineering or coastal engineering.

Some courses include a 1 year work placement while others let you spend a year studying abroad.

You could study a postgraduate master’s degree if you have a related degree like maths, science or geology.

Entry Requirements

You’ll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C)
  • 3 A levels including maths and a science subject

 

Apprenticeship

You could get into this job through an apprenticeship.  For more information click below:

guide to apprenticeships

 

Work

You could start as a technician and study part time for a higher national diploma or foundation degree, leading to a degree in civil engineering.

 

Skills Required

You will need the following skills and knowledge:

  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • maths knowledge
  • knowledge of building and construction
  • design skills and knowledge
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • knowledge of English language
  • thinking and reasoning skills
  • the ability to read English
  • You will be expected to use a computer confidently as part of this job.
The following salaries are a guide only:

  • Starter:  £24,000
  • Experienced: £80,000

 

Working Conditions

  • You’ll usually work Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm.  You may work evenings or weekends. 
  • You could work on a construction site or in an office.
  • Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers.
  • You may need to wear protective clothing.