Site engineers perform technical, organisational and supervisory roles on construction projects. This includes civil, road, rail and other infrastructure work.
Who can I work for?
You can work for building contractors, civil engineering companies, the public sector, transport companies and water, gas and electrical supply organisations.
Where and when can I work?
The role is generally split between the office and the site and you will typically work a 35 to 40-hour week. This can include early starts and late finishes depending on the project.
What can I earn?
Starting salaries range from £22,000 to £26,000, rising to £35,000 with experience. Senior site engineers can expect to earn up to £50,000.
What are the benefits?
There are plenty of opportunities across the UK, on a variety of sites. There is also the potential for travel abroad.
Are there chances of promotion?
There is generally a structured career progression route for a site engineer and with experience you could look to progress into a senior engineer or site manager role. Eventually you could move into project management.
What will I be responsible for?
You will be the main technical adviser on a construction site, supervising and monitoring the site labour force and the work of any subcontractors and planning the work and efficiently organising the plant and site facilities in order to meet agreed deadlines.
Do I need any experience?
Most site engineers will hold a degree in a relevant subject, such as civil engineering, structural engineering or building engineering. Apprenticeship opportunities are also available and work experience is extremely beneficial.
What attributes are needed?
You will need to have excellent organisational and time-management skills and be able to work well as part of a team. You should be a confident communicator and with an analytical mind and a methodical, accurate approach to work.