Civil Engineering Career Paths
Introduction
Civil engineering is a broad field that encompasses the design, construction, and maintenance of the built environment. Civil engineers are responsible for some of the world’s most iconic structures, including roads, bridges, buildings, and dams. They also work on projects such as water supply systems, wastewater treatment plants, and environmental remediation.
Types of Civil Engineering Career Paths
There are many different types of civil engineering career paths, each with its own unique set of responsibilities and requirements. Some of the most common career paths include:
Structural Engineering
Structural engineers design and analyze the structural components of buildings, bridges, and other structures. They ensure that these structures can withstand the forces exerted on them, such as gravity, wind, and earthquakes.
Geotechnical Engineering
Geotechnical engineers study the behavior of soil and rock, and how it affects the design and construction of structures. They provide recommendations on foundation design, slope stability, and other geotechnical issues.
Environmental Engineering
Environmental engineers design and manage systems to protect the environment from pollution. They work on projects such as water treatment plants, wastewater treatment plants, and air pollution control systems.
Transportation Engineering
Transportation engineers design and manage transportation systems, such as roads, bridges, and public transportation systems. They work to improve traffic flow and safety, and to reduce congestion.
Water Resources Engineering
Water resources engineers design and manage systems to collect, store, and distribute water. They work on projects such as dams, reservoirs, and aqueducts.
Education and Training
To become a civil engineer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field. Some states also require civil engineers to pass a professional engineer (PE) exam. PE exams are administered by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES).
Continuing Education
Civil engineers must continue to learn throughout their careers to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and best practices. Continuing education can be obtained through a variety of sources, such as workshops, seminars, and conferences.
Job Outlook
The job outlook for civil engineers is expected to be good over the next decade. As the population grows and the world’s infrastructure ages, there will be a growing need for civil engineers to design, build, and maintain these structures.
Salary
The median annual salary for civil engineers was $88,260 in May 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $54,550, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $147,140.
Conclusion
Civil engineering is a rewarding career that offers the opportunity to make a real difference in the world. Civil engineers design and build the structures that we rely on every day, and they help to protect the environment and improve public health. If you are interested in a career in civil engineering, there are many resources available to help you get started.
