Civil Engineer

So, you want to be a civil engineer? Do you have:

• the able to identify, analyse and solve problems 
• good oral and written communication skills 
• an aptitude for computing and design 
• the ability to be practical and creative 

Are you:

• able to work without supervision 
• able to work as part of a team 
• able to accept responsibility 
• willing to contribute and adhere to the safety requirements of the operation

What do Civil Engineers do?

Civil engineers plan, design, construct, operate and maintain roads, bridges, dams, water supply schemes, sewerage systems, transportation, harbours, canals, dockyards, airports, railways, factories and large buildings.

Civil engineers may perform the following tasks:

• investigate sites to work out the most suitable foundation for a proposed construction
• research and advise on the best engineering solution to meet with a client's needs and budget
• produce detailed designs and documentation for the construction and implementation of civil engineering projects
• organise the delivery of materials, plant and equipment needed for the construction project and supervise labour
• develop detailed programs for the coordination of site activities
• talk to other engineers, architects, landscape architects and environmental scientists
• assist government bodies in preparing yearly works programs within set budgets (e.g. for works on car parks, drainage, roads, aerodromes or sewerage)
• prepare engineering calculations required for the design of projects and supervise the drafting
• operate computers to assist with the design of civil engineering projects
• coordinate and direct research development and testing of materials, processes or systems related to civil engineering works
• research, advise on and plan the control and minimisation of air, water and solid waste pollution, and the management of water
• supervise the testing and commissioning of completed works
• analyse and interpret reports on loading, labour, productivity, quality, materials and performance
• analyse risks associated with natural disasters including wind, earthquake, fire and floods, and design structures and services to meet appropriate standards
• arrange for geological and geophysical investigations and carry out feasibility studies.

In addition, civil engineers can specialise in a wide range of areas including:

• Structural
• Hydraulic
• Materials
• Roads
• Water resoures
• And many more.

How do I become a Civil Engineer?

To become a civil engineer you usually have to study engineering at university with a major in civil engineering. To get into the courses below you usually need to pass your QCE. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics B, physics and chemistry are normally required. The various universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

What next?

In addition to specialising, graduates may be eligible to join Engineers Australia as student members. Upon graduation, after providing a certified copy of their degree they may apply for graduate membership of the institution without further examination.
Prospective local government engineers should hold qualifications acceptable to Engineers Australia and should undertake further studies in municipal engineering.