What is a Civil Engineering Contract Job?
Civil engineering contract jobs are positions that require specialized knowledge and skills related to the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems. These jobs are typically offered by private engineering firms, construction companies, or government agencies, and are often project-based. In other words, civil engineering contract jobs are temporary positions that are created to complete a specific project or task within a certain timeframe.
What Do People Usually Do in This Position?
Civil engineering contract jobs can involve a wide range of tasks and responsibilities, depending on the specific project and the needs of the employer. Some of the most common duties of civil engineering contractors include:
- Conducting site investigations and surveys to gather information about the project area
- Developing project plans and designs using computer-aided design (CAD) software
- Ensuring compliance with local and national regulations and codes
- Collaborating with other professionals, such as architects, project managers, and construction workers, to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget
- Overseeing the construction process to ensure that it meets the project specifications and quality standards
- Conducting inspections and tests to check the quality of materials, equipment, and workmanship
- Preparing reports and presentations to communicate project progress and results to stakeholders
Top 5 Skills for the Position
To be successful in a civil engineering contract job, there are several key skills that are essential. Here are the top five skills that are required for this position:
- Technical expertise: Civil engineering contractors must have a deep understanding of engineering principles, mathematics, and physics, as well as knowledge of relevant software tools and technologies.
- Analytical skills: They must be able to analyze data, identify patterns and trends, and make sound decisions based on their findings.
- Communication skills: Civil engineering contractors must be able to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and government officials.
- Project management skills: They must be able to plan, organize, and manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders, resources, and timelines.
- Problem-solving skills: Civil engineering contractors must be able to identify and solve problems quickly and creatively, often under tight deadlines and budget constraints.
How to Become a Civil Engineering Contract Specialist
To become a civil engineering contractor, you typically need to have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering or a related field, such as structural engineering or environmental engineering. Some employers may also require a master's degree or professional certification, such as a Professional Engineer (PE) license.
In addition to formal education, civil engineering contractors need to have practical experience in the field, often gained through internships or entry-level positions. They also need to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments by attending conferences, workshops, and training sessions.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for civil engineers was $87,060 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and industry. Civil engineering contractors, in particular, may earn higher salaries than traditional civil engineers due to the project-based nature of their work.
Roles and Types
Civil engineering contract jobs can be divided into several different roles and types, depending on the specific project and employer. Here are some of the most common roles and types of civil engineering contract jobs:
- Structural engineers: These engineers are responsible for designing and evaluating the structural integrity of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects.
- Transportation engineers: These engineers focus on the design and construction of transportation systems, such as roads, highways, and airports.
- Environmental engineers: These engineers work on projects related to environmental protection and sustainability, such as water management, waste disposal, and pollution control.
- Construction managers: These professionals oversee the construction process, including scheduling, budgeting, and quality control.
- Project managers: These professionals are responsible for managing the entire project, from planning and design to construction and final delivery.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in the USA
Civil engineering contract jobs are in demand across the United States, but some locations are more popular than others. According to the BLS, the top five states with the highest employment levels for civil engineers as of May 2020 were:
- California
- Texas
- Florida
- New York
- Pennsylvania
What are the Typical Tools?
Civil engineering contractors use a wide range of tools and technologies to complete their work, including:
- Computer-aided design (CAD) software
- Geographic information systems (GIS) software
- Surveying equipment, such as total stations and GPS receivers
- Materials testing equipment, such as concrete compressive strength testers and soil compaction testers
- Project management software, such as Microsoft Project and Primavera P6
- Communication tools, such as email, video conferencing, and instant messaging
In Conclusion
Civil engineering contract jobs offer exciting opportunities for professionals who are passionate about designing, building, and maintaining the infrastructure that supports our communities. To succeed in this field, you need a combination of technical expertise, analytical skills, communication skills, project management skills, and problem-solving skills. With the right education, training, and experience, you can build a rewarding career as a civil engineering contractor and contribute to some of the most important projects of our time.