Civil engineers play an important role in our modern society, in a wide variety of ways. We hear this job title batted around a lot, but if push came to shove, many of us probably couldn’t list what jobs a civil engineer actually performs. This is why we’ve put together this brief list of some of the most common jobs for a civil engineer in Idaho. If you’d like to learn more about the ways civil engineering firms can help you, give Mason & Stanfield, Inc. a call today.
Acting as support for buildings and other projects
Engineers help us preserve our environment and keep us safe every day. They are involved in every stage of construction, from the planning and design to the actual building phase, and then on the other end, the maintenance. The type of project depends on the engineer. Some of them can include power plants, railways, roads, airports, harbors, bridges, sewage systems, commercial buildings and more. Part of their job is to make sure each structure is well made and will last for decades to come.
A wide range of activities
Engineers have numerous tasks, a few of which include:
- Acting as go-between for clients and managers during projects, working with people such as subcontractors and architects
- Investigating potential jobsites
- Ensuring that jobsites comply with environmental standards, and assessing any potential impacts on their surroundings
- Working out complex calculations to make sure sites are safe and building construction is correct.
- Taking care of any design or construction issues that come up
- Managing client resources and business budgets for projects
- Utilizing the latest technology (such as computer programs) to help create building designs
Hours vary
Engineers do not operate on a 9-to-5 schedule each day—although some days may be longer than others. Frequent travel, long nights and weekend work are not uncommon. Any civil engineer in Idaho worth his salt stays the course from start to finish, until the job is complete.
The engineering skill set is varied
Employers look for a set of key skills in any engineers they hire. Some of these include:
- Excellent technical skills and mathematical ability
- Good “people” skills, such as the ability to supervise, negotiate and delegate tasks
- The ability to write and communicate clearly and effectively
- The capability to plan ahead, strategize and think big-picture
There are certifications to be earned
Chartered civil engineers have gone through extensive training, and have usually earned a degree in civil engineering or structural engineering. Then there are internships, vocational training with an ICE-accredited organization and other work experience opportunities.
Employers from many industries need civil engineers
The services that civil engineers offer are indispensible for so many industries. A few such employers include:
- Government entities
- Water companies, gas companies, or electricity companies
- Contractors and consultants
- Railways
- Power plant overseers
As you can see, a civil engineer in Idaho goes through rigorous training, and plays a vital role in many different areas of our modern society. Make sure you choose a knowledgeable, capable engineering company, such as Mason & Stanfield, Inc. for all your civil engineering needs.