Civil engineers work in the construction industry and also in the management and financial sectors. They usually spend time between the worksites and offices. This discipline of engineering is concerned with the designing, construction, and the maintenance of buildings and structures. Structural engineering is a speciality field under civil engineering. Structural engineers are concerned with the framework of structures. They ensure that the structures of a building are able to withstand environmental conditions and the stressors and pressures placed on it.

Range of Responsibilities of a Civil Engineer

Bridges, railways, canals, multi-storeyed buildings, sports stadiums, and dams are all the result of planning and design by civil engineers. They handle all infrastructure-related construction across the world. The range of responsibilities they assume is manifold. When a project is first envisaged, they have to undertake feasibility studies, and they have to check the site and see if it meets planning requirements. They also study local survey data before drawing plans and making blueprints. Once the plans are approved, then they are responsible for monitoring and directing the actual construction phase. They are closely involved with the project until the very end.

Requirements of a Civil Engineer

Civil engineers need to be very skilled in IT, mathematics, and project management. They have to be methodical and organised if they want to work in this field. Communication skills are essential, so they can explain all the complex instructions to the construction team, which includes both construction workers and the top-level management team. A love for travel is an added prerequisite as they are expected to supervise the construction at the site. They will also be required to work with architects and site managers which is why additional professional training is an advantage. When you hire the services of a professional firm, you can be assured that their civil engineers meet all the above criteria.

Feats of Structural Engineers Through the Ages

Structural engineers are responsible for ensuring that the building structure is strong and steady and will remain so throughout its use. They ensure that the bridges we zip through and the buildings we use so confidently do not collapse. The Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the Parthenon are early examples of the feats of structural engineers. Who can forget the Eiffel Tower or the Gateway Arch in St Louis? Structural engineers form a team along with architects and civil engineers at construction projects. The structures of buildings change according to the area in which it is built. For example, Canadian roofs have to withstand heavy snowfall, whereas the roofs of houses in tropical climates have to withstand heavy downpours.

Functions of a Structural Engineer

Structural engineers work with steel, concrete, masonry, wood, and aluminium. The structures they construct must be able to withstand earthquakes, blast explosions, resist forces of gravity, high winds, and other unexpected climatic conditions. They estimate the cost and the number of materials, labour, and equipment that is required. They also analyse geological and topographical data. They study traffic patterns and the environmental conditions in an area before finalising the design. They inspect sites to monitor progress and ensure it is being built according to design specifications.