Construction engineering is a professional discipline that deals with the designing, planning, construction, and management of infrastructures such as highways, bridges, airports, railways, buildings, sewers, and utilities. Construction engineers are unique as they are a cross between civil engineers and construction managers.
Who can I work for?
You can work for contractors or consultancies, depending on whether or not you will be designing the build or physically involved in the construction of it.
Where and when can I work?
Both on site and in the office; a contracted engineer is usually based on the construction site, whereas a consultant is more likely to spend time in the office. In some areas of specialism, the hours can be long and are often unpredictable but the work/life balance is better than in most professional careers.
What can I earn?
The average salary for a construction engineer depends on the sector you work in and more specifically your experience. You can expect to earn between £23,000 and £29,000 but after 15-20 years experience this can rise substantially.
What are the benefits?
A career in construction engineering gives you a real opportunity to shape the world around you. It's exciting to play a major part in projects worth millions of pounds and there's a huge sense of satisfaction when you see the results.
Are there chances of promotion?
Construction engineers can move into civil engineering, engineering management, or business administration. They are also able to become a project manager, overseeing an entire design and build project rather than just certain specialist aspects of it.
What will I be responsible for?
In general, a construction engineer is responsible for the planning and delivery of the construction of a project. This includes conducting surveys, engaging in research, analysing results, planning the construction and overseeing it along the way.
Do I need any experience?
For most vacancies, you need a BEng or a MEng in civil or structural engineering that is accredited by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) or the Institution of Structural Engineers. The standard way to start your career in engineering is to join a graduate scheme and many engineers find a job after doing a work experience placement with a company.
What attributes are needed?
Construction engineers are problem solvers and have the perspective to solve technical challenges with clarity and imagination. You should have strong maths and science skills. Strong people, time management and communication skills are also desirable.