Become a Civil Engineer

Civil engineers plan, design, build, construct, manage, and maintain buildings, roads, water systems, and other infrastructure. They might work for the government, in education, at a consulting firm, in industry, or in construction. Civil engineers may specialize in construction, geotechnical, structural, or transportation engineering.

Civil engineers use computer software to analyze reports and maps, develop blueprints, and design systems. They create and submit legal documents to meet regulations, help with budgeting, and cost estimating. To assess the risk and environmental impact of a project, Civil engineers analyze environmental test results and reports. Civil engineers often work with developers, construction managers, technicians, city managers, and the public.

Civil engineers typically work in varied locations during normal work hours. Additional hours may be necessary when trying to meet a deadline. Civil engineers may work in the office while preparing designs, in the field at a construction site, in a car between sites, or at a government facility.

Consider pursuing this career if you enjoy working in a dynamic environment on complex systems and problem solving.

Entry level civil engineering positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or a related field like Construction.

Undergraduate and graduate degrees in engineering are offered at many universities with ABET accreditation. Courses take place in the classroom, laboratory, and the field.

Civil engineers may complete summer internships or internships during the academic year while working on their degree. After graduating, entry-level Civil engineers can work under licensed Professional Engineers (PE) to gain work experience and work toward their license.

Engineers do not need a license for entry-level positions. To earn a license as a PE, one must get a degree from an ABET accredited university, pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam, work under a licensed engineer for around 4 years, and pass the Professional Engineering exam. Licenses are issued by the state, and depending on state requirements, engineers may need to continue education to maintain their licensure.

Certifications in coastal engineering, geotechnical engineering, ports engineering, water resources engineering, and other fields are available through the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).