Civil engineering is a profession that implements the design and construction of buildings, roads, bridges, and other large-scale structures necessary for society. It can be broken down into many sub-disciplines such as environmental engineering and transportation engineering. Obtaining a general degree in civil engineering can lead to many career paths. Continue reading below to see our list of the most in-demand jobs in civil engineering.

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Structural Engineer

Structural engineers use their knowledge of stresses and pressures to design large structures such as buildings and bridges. It is one of the oldest professions and will always be in demand as long as we continue to live inside houses and walk over bridges. A typical day as a structural engineer includes overseeing the design of structures to ensure all the beams, columns, or tension cables can withstand the stresses and pressures imposed by the expected load and surrounding environment. It can be a high-stress job, as even a minor mistake could result in catastrophic failures that lead to loss of life.

To work as a structural engineer, you must first complete general studies as a civil engineer. Most structural engineers also complete graduate studies before they are allowed to work on their own. It is also a good idea to intern with structural engineering firms while still in school to gain valuable working experience.

Water Resources Engineer

Water resources engineers specialise in working with large bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, oceans, and municipal wastewaters. Again, this sub-discipline will always be in-demand because water plays such an important role in our lives. Cities next to rivers, lakes and oceans will require more water resources engineers to mitigate flood risks and to control erosion. The tasks of the job vary and will depend on the place of employment. A typical day as a water resources engineer can involve designing sewage systems, mitigating flood risks, and designing river structures such as erosion-protection works and dams.

The fastest way to enter into a career as a water resources engineer is to go through general studies in civil engineering. However, other useful degrees relevant to the field include biochemistry, geology, and environmental engineering. To increase your chances of getting hired, consider interning when you are still in school or obtaining a graduate degree to specialise in this area.

Construction Manager

Construction managers are responsible for ensuring construction projects are completed in a safe and timely manner. They need to liaise with all parties on a construction site – from architects and surveyors to contractors and construction labourers – to keep open lines of communication. Since there are always new construction projects in progress, construction managers are always in demand. However, cities with healthy economies will have more openings for construction managers due to a high level of investment in residential, commercial, and infrastructural projects.

There are many ways to qualify as a construction manager. Most construction managers working in the UK have an HNC or a degree in a relevant subject, such as civil engineering. Other related degrees include building management, project management, and surveying.

Consultant

Working as a consultant in the field of civil engineering is also a possibility for those with civil engineering degrees. Most civil engineering consultants work with clients to provide technical expertise on all types of projects. Some of these tasks include risk management, feasibility studies, and tendering procedures. 

To qualify as a consulting civil engineer, you need to have an accredited ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers) honours degree. It is also possible to work as a consulting civil engineer with a BSc but your career progression may be limited until you obtain higher qualifications.  

Geotechnical Engineer

Geotechnical engineers carry out similar duties to structural engineers. But instead of working with the structural design of buildings, they are responsible for a structure’s foundations. This means they need working knowledge of geology and soil samples.

All structures require strong foundations, from bridges to buildings to dams. Therefore, geotechnical engineers are always in demand as long as new construction projects are being built. To qualify as a geotechnical engineer, you need to have general knowledge of civil engineering. Most geotechnical engineers also obtain graduate degrees before they practice design work on their own.

Conclusion

Civil engineering may lead to many job opportunities in areas with high economic investment in infrastructure and building developments. So whether you decide to be a structural engineer, water resources engineer, construction manager, consultant, or geotechnical engineer, the growing demands of a growing population means the job market isn’t going to dry up any time soon.