What does a Civil Engineer do?
Civil Engineers typically work for construction companies on a contractual basis or for government agencies to complete public works projects. They work closely with Construction Workers and other Civil Engineers to overcome construction challenges and ensure the quality of their projects. Their job is to obtain construction permits and determine the proper budget and personnel needed to complete a project. They may also need to research the local environment and conduct soil tests to choose suitable construction materials.
Civil Engineer skills and qualifications
Civil Engineers must be skilled in construction and design. The specific area of expertise required will depend on if the project is for a road, building, bridge or another type of infrastructure. Some of their most important skills and qualifications include:
- Professional Engineering (PE) license
- Proficiency with computer-aided design (CAD) software
- Advanced calculus and trigonometry skills
- Excellent organizational and time management abilities
- Demonstrated leadership and teamwork capabilities
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Advanced decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Ability to multitask effectively
Civil Engineer salary expectations
A Civil Engineer makes an average of $84,237 per year in the United States. Salaries typically depend on the candidate’s years of relevant experience, level of education and geographical location.
Civil Engineer salary expectations
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Common salary:
94839.05 YEARLY -
Typical salaries range from
32000.00 -189000.00 YEARLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Civil Engineer education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering is generally required for all Civil Engineers. Training and certification requirements for a Civil Engineer will vary by state, but a Professional Engineering (PE) license is generally required for higher-level positions. The PE license allows the Engineer to oversee other Engineers and approve design plans or projects. Some employers may also prefer to hire candidates with a master’s degree in civil engineering for higher-level or specialized positions.
Civil Engineer experience requirements
The experience required for Civil Engineers varies depending on the specific projects they’re required to manage. For companies seeking an entry-level Engineer, they may not require prior professional experience. However, a Team Leader or Designer generally requires at least 10 years of experience. For mid-level Civil Engineering roles, organizations may look for candidates with 2-5 years of experience, such as experience working as a Junior Civil Engineer or Civil Engineering Intern.
Job description samples for similar positions
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