Civil Engineers

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  Career Profile

Civil Engineers

What they do

Perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels, dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems.

Also Called: City Engineer, Civil Engineer, County Engineer, Design Engineer, Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Licensed Engineer, Project Engineer, Railroad Design Consultant, Structural Engineer, City Engineer, Civil Engineer, County Engineer, Design Engineer, Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer, Licensed Engineer, Project Engineer, Railroad Design Consultant, Structural Engineer

$63,220
Starting Salary (2023)
$95,890
Median Salary (2023)
5.0%
Projected Job Growth
327,950
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Direct engineering activities, ensuring compliance with environmental, safety, or other governmental regulations.
Estimate quantities and cost of materials, equipment, or labor to determine project feasibility.
Inspect project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design specifications and safety or sanitation standards.
Analyze survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, aerial photography, or other topographical or geologic data.
Provide technical advice to industrial or managerial personnel regarding design, construction, program modifications, or structural repairs.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Integrity
Attention to Detail
Analytical Thinking
Dependability
Initiative
Cooperation

What key skills are needed for this job?

Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Mathematics
Complex Problem Solving
Speaking
Active Listening

Expected Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Design
Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.
Mathematics
Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Common Activities

Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.

More Info

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