Structural engineering consultant is a field in the building and construction industry that has earned an impressive reputation over the years. As a lucrative area of practice, many prospective professionals are always seeking to know what to expect ahead of their careers. This is why we set out in this article to walk you through a series of things you need to know before finally enrolling into the field of structural engineering.
What’s the typical day for a structural engineer?
Structural engineers are typically concerned with creating designs of structures that comply with the safety requirements established by the local codes. They also improve the structural integrity of the already erected structures. Ideally, the work of a structural engineer resembles that of a civil engineer in a big way. The key areas of concern include:
• Preparing project reports, designs and drawings
• Determining loads and stresses
• Providing technical advice to project owners
• Selecting the right building materials
• Obtaining plan and regulatory approvals
• Liaising with other related experts such as architects, quantity surveyors and more
• Managing projects
• Performing inspections to ensure conditions and foundations are sound
• Administering contracts
Where Do Structural Engineers Work?
A majority of structural engineers work either as structural engineering consultants or for construction companies. Here, they focus mostly on structural designs and while a number of their tasks are majorly field-related, they also work in offices or for contractors where they oversee the design of plans, site approvals and actual construction of the buildings and other structures. Structural engineers often specialize in a given project such as bridges, buildings or such other projects.
The typical schedule of a structural engineer is the formal office hours, but they can also work extra hours on site in order to meet a tight schedule.
Who Are the Potential Employers?
Structural engineers may be employed in a variety of environments and they may be employed by the following:
• Utility companies
• Construction and engineering consultancies
• Construction and engineering contractors
• State and national governments and their organizations
• Local authorities
Qualifications for Structural Engineers
Both college and university graduates can trace their route to a career in the field of structural engineering. As a graduate, you will need a bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering from a reputable college or university. You may also be required to possess professional qualifications from an accredited institute of structural engineers. You can also advance your career by taking a masters in order to gain advantage over the rest. Graduates will need to complete a vocational training with an accredited organization together with obtaining a professional review in order to fully qualify for a practicing certificate. This means that working with a reputable employer will give you the necessary experience needed by the market and which will boost your eligibility to handle serious or lucrative projects.
Key skills needed include:
• Creative mind
• Teamwork
• Excellent communication skills
• Analytical, IT and mathematical skills
• Attention to detail
• Project management
• Budgeting skills
What’s more, an excellent understanding of the construction methods, legal issues around the industry and industry trends will go a long way to influence your career success.
A good working knowledge of construction methods, materials and legal regulations is important.
