Title: What Does a Civil Engineer Do?
Headings: What Does a Civil Engineer Do?
What Does a Civil Engineer Do?
Career Defined
Important Facts About This Occupation
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Specializations
Job Outlook
Popular Schools
ECPI University
Southern New Hampshire University
Liberty University
Penn Foster High School
Northcentral University

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Career Defined
Many people think of civil engineers as science and math whizzes, but this career also entails imagination and strong problem-solving skills. As a civil engineer, you'll design a variety of facilities and structures, such as bridges, roads, tunnels, dams, and sewer systems. During the design process, you'll take into consideration building costs, government regulations, geographic limitations, and a multitude of other factors. In addition to designing structures, you may also oversee construction projects. Civil engineers work closely with other construction professionals, such as architects and contractors, to ensure the project is progressing properly. You might survey the site, test ground conditions, and make certain construction materials are maintained. Civil engineers also come up with solutions for weather and geological dilemmas. After construction is complete, you might be responsible for inspecting, repairing, and maintaining structures. Important Facts About This Occupation
Entry-level Education
Bachelor's degree in civil engineering
Licensure
Must gain work experience and pass Fundamentals of Engineering exam, as well as other exams, to become licensed
Work Environment
Office settings and constructions sites
Similar Occupations
Architects, civil engineering technicians, construction managers, environmental engineers, landscape architects, mechanical engineers, surveyors, urban and regional planners
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Specializations
Civil engineers may choose to specialize in one aspect of the field, such as materials, coastal, transportation, or environmental engineering.