Civil Engineering Career Opportunities

Introduction

Civil engineering is a broad and challenging field that encompasses the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure. Civil engineers play a vital role in creating and maintaining the built environment, including roads, bridges, buildings, water and wastewater systems, and other structures.

Career Options

There are many different career options available to civil engineers, including:

• Structural engineers design and analyze the structural components of buildings, bridges, and other structures.
• Geotechnical engineers study the properties of soil and rock and design foundations and other structures that interact with the ground.
• Transportation engineers plan and design highways, railroads, airports, and other transportation systems.
• Water resources engineers design and manage water supply systems, wastewater treatment plants, and other water-related infrastructure.
• Environmental engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as air and water pollution.

Education and Training

Most civil engineers have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Some employers may also require a master’s degree or doctorate for certain positions.

In addition to their formal education, civil engineers must also pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Professional Engineer (PE) exam in order to become licensed. The FE exam is typically taken after graduating from college, and the PE exam is typically taken after gaining several years of experience.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for civil engineers is expected to be good over the next decade. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the number of civil engineering jobs will grow by 11% from 2019 to 2029.

This growth is expected to be driven by the need for new and improved infrastructure, as well as the need to repair and maintain existing infrastructure.

Salary

The median annual salary for civil engineers was $87,060 in May 2020. The lowest 10% of earners made less than $54,220, and the highest 10% of earners made more than $132,650.

Salary can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and employer.

Conclusion

Civil engineering is a rewarding and challenging career that offers a variety of opportunities. With a strong educational foundation and a commitment to professional development, civil engineers can have a positive impact on the built environment and the lives of people.