How To Become a Civil Engineer

Are you wondering how to become a civil engineer?

Civil engineers design and supervise the construction of large-scale construction and infrastructure projects. They often split time in between the office and project sites, which brings a nice balance to the workday.

So how can you get started on the path to becoming a civil engineer? Check out these steps for insight into the journey.

RESEARCH CAREERS IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

The first step to finding your dream job is to do research. You might be interested in supervising a team and designing infrastructure, but it’s important to learn more about this career and make sure it’s a good fit for you.

Some things to take into consideration include average wages and benefits, job demand, required skills, education requirements and work environment.

Civil engineers on average make $95,440 per year. This equates to $45.88/hour. These numbers do not include overtime, per diem or other incentives that can increase earnings and benefits.

Here are some ways to research careers in engineering:

• Find online career resource pages that provide summaries and descriptions of different aspects of civil engineering work.
• Look for videos, articles, and online posts that feature real engineers sharing their experience or provide an inside look at the profession.
• Take online personality quizzes to help match you with the right career.

GET EDUCATED

If you’re ready and excited to start the next part of your journey, it’s time to get some education!

Becoming a civil engineer requires a degree from a college or university, accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET. Accredited schools may offer bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degrees in engineering.

A degree in civil engineering brings value to the construction industry. You will gain the necessary skills to design and coordinate building structures.

Coursework for civil engineering can include fluid dynamics, mechanics and systems, and relevant math and science fields like statistics and physics.

Civil engineering students are also encouraged to complete an internship to get real-world experience and learn directly from professionals.

GET LICENSED

Upon completing a civil engineering degree, you need to pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) to be considered an engineer in training. As an engineer in training, you can work in an apprenticeship, internship or other forms of employment.

After about four years of experience, you can apply for a license in your state or territory. You will typically need to be licensed to move up the career ladder and obtain a senior position in civil engineering.

As part of the licensing process, you will also need to pass the Principles and Practice in Engineering exam. Licensing boards in some jurisdictions may also have some additional requirements.

BECOME A PRO

After completing your education, gaining experience through an internship or apprenticeship, and earning your license, you are officially a civil engineer!

Civil engineering is a great career option but there are lots of different specializations in the construction industry. Click here to explore more construction career options