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How to become a Civil Engineer

Civil Engineer

Career progression and salary expectations for a Civil Engineer

1

Civil Engineer

| Up to £30,000

The role of a Civil Engineer

You hate Mondays because you hate your job. You should become a Civil Engineer…Civil Engineers plan, design, build, construct and maintain infrastructures. The work of a Civil Engineer could range from building bridges and maintaining major roads and railways, through to constructing shopping centres, train stations and specialise in structures, transportation or even maritime construction.Other responsibilities could range from managing big events like the Olympics, to ensuring our water and energy supplies are maintained. Without Civil Engineers, the world simply would not function the same. Key duties include:
  • Planning requirements with clients, and using them to set objectives
  • Analysing and testing feasibility of projects using a range of different surveying tools
  • Creating blueprints and performing cost analysis
  • Managing the whole project through to completion
  • Making sure all work meets legal requirements and health and safety standards
To become a Civil Engineer, a genuine passion for designing and building things is essential. You should be creative, and able come up with new and innovative ideas, but also never lose the ability to stay grounded and see the ‘big picture’.Excellent decision-making skills, and the ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines are also essential.Other key skills and attributes include:
  • A natural talent for mathematics, science and IT
  • Critical thinking and problem solving
  • Excellent team working skills
  • The ability to work within budgets
  • Exceptional communication skills
"I’ve always been good at problem solving, almost to the point of obsession. Working as a Civil Engineer is great because it means I get to work towards something tangible, which is very fulfilling. Every project is different, meaning there’s really no such thing as a typical day. If you’ve got a flair for design and are looking for something practical, this is the career for you."

Get qualified as a Civil Engineer

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