Duties of Civil Engineers
Civil engineers typically do the following:
- Analyze long range plans, survey reports, maps, and other data in order to plan projects,
- Consider construction costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards, and other factors in planning the stages of, and risk analysis for, a project.
- Compile and submit permit applications to local, state, and federal agencies, verifying that projects comply with various regulations.
- Perform or oversee soil testing to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations.
- Test building materials, such as concrete, asphalt, or steel, for use in particular projects.
- Provide cost estimates for materials, equipment, or labor to determine a project’s economic feasibility.
- Use design software to plan and design transportation systems, hydraulic systems, and structures in line with industry and government standards
- Perform or oversee surveying operations in order to establish reference points, grades, and elevations to guide construction
- Present their findings to the public on topics such as bid proposals, environmental impact statements, or descriptions of property
- Manage the repair, maintenance, and replacement of public and private infrastructure
Important Qualities for Civil Engineers
- Decision making skills
- Leadership skills
- Math skills
- Organizational skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Speaking skills
- Writing skills
