Structural and civil engineering

Civil and structural engineers are involved in the design and supervision of a wide range of infrastructure projects. There are also opportunities for graduates with companies providing engineering services to the construction industry, for example in the production of plant, tools and equipment or in servicing specialist areas such as quarrying or waste management.

Civil engineers design and supervise the construction of a huge range of projects including buildings, roads, railways, tunnels, bridges, power stations, dams, water supply and sewerage systems. Civil engineering offers graduates a high-tech career with the chance to travel and work outdoors, and to work on projects that involve multidisciplinary teams including architects, quantity surveyors and building services engineers.

Civil engineers can work for a wide variety of companies including firms of consulting engineers, engineering contractors, construction companies and local authorities. They are also employed by property developers, transport infrastructure companies and government departments. Generally speaking, the work of civil and structural engineers will combine site and design work. However, consulting engineers tend to focus more on design whilst contracting engineers will spend more time on site work.

Consulting engineers are responsible for working with clients to design, plan, manage and supervise the construction of projects. Their work involves carrying out site investigations and feasibility studies; developing detailed designs; liaising with other professionals such as architects, building services engineers and quantity surveyors; and ensuring the smooth running of projects and completion within budget and on time.

Contracting civil engineers turn the plans of designers into reality. They liaise with the design team and oversee the actual construction on site. Their work involves organising manpower and materials, observing safety standards, negotiating modifications with the designers, scheduling work, and supervising construction, including the work of subcontractors. They use specialist equipment to survey sites to ensure that the construction work is being carried out in the right place and that the structure is safe. This career area is open to any engineering graduate, although a civil or structural background is advantageous. Numeracy is essential, as are communication skills.