A bridge engineer is a civil engineer who specialises in bridge design and construction. Bridge engineers design new bridges and inspect and plan the rehabilitation of older ones. They work as project managers overseeing the actual bridge construction process.
Who can I work for?
Construction companies, highway agencies, design and consulting firms and government transportation agencies all employ bridge engineers.
Where and when can I work?
You will be based on-site, overseeing the entire bridge construction process. Regular hours will normally apply however you could sometimes spend significant amounts of time away from home, or commuting long distances to go wherever a bridge is being built.
What can I earn?
You can earn from around £18,000 rising to £45,000 plus with experience, depending on what sector you're working in and the company you choose to work for.
What are the benefits?
Contributing to a city's landscape is a thrilling feeling. Bridge engineering can also be lucrative career, with national or even global recognition for what you create.
Are there chances of promotion?
You can go on to achieve incorporated or chartered status, which would greatly increase your chances of promotion. As an incorporated engineer, you would specialise in the day-to-day management of engineering operations. At chartered level, you would have a more strategic role.
What will I be responsible for?
Bridge engineers build a variety of bridges, designing and preparing bridge plans, specifications and cost estimates. They perform load rating and stress analysis calculations and ensure that bridge projects stay on schedule and on budget.
Do I need any experience?
A BEng or MEng degree in civil engineering is extremely important, especially if you are looking to gain incorporated or chartered status.
Alternatively, you could work your way up to become a bridge engineer if you are already in the industry, for example, working as an engineering technician.
What attributes are needed?
Strong maths, science and spatial skills are important for bridge engineers. Good communication skills are helpful and computer and software experience is also important.