Civil engineer
What does a civil engineer do?
What is a civil engineer? Put simply, civil engineering involves designing, constructing and maintaining infrastructure. Civil engineers may work on iconic buildings or bridges, such as the Sydney Opera House or the Golden Gate Bridge. More commonly, however, civil engineering involves continuously improving and maintaining society’s infrastructure. Civil engineers work on projects that adapt structures such as bridges, roads, railways and waste management systems to accommodate factors including population growth, climate change and natural disasters.
Civil engineers may choose to work as either consultants or contractors. Consultants typically focus on design and work from an office, while contractors are generally based on-site to oversee and monitor civil construction work.
Is a career as a civil engineer right for me?
If you’re interested in construction and enjoy solving complex problems, you might like a civil engineering career. It’s also helpful to have skills and attributes including:
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
An ability to analyse and interpret information.
Proficiency in using technology, digital tools, and relevant software.
A sound awareness and understanding of industry and trends.
The ability to work effectively in demanding, practical, or physically challenging environments.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
How to become a civil engineer
Typically you would need an engineering bachelor degree with a major in civil engineering. Pursuing a postgraduate qualification, such as a masters, can further assist with your civil engineering career progression and open doors to more advanced opportunities within the field.
In addition to your degree, a minimum of five years of work experience as an engineer is required to gain a chartered status as a professional engineer.
Every journey to study is individual and there are several paths to reaching your civil engineering career goals. A common path to becoming a civil engineer:
- Complete an accredited bachelor degree in civil engineering.
- Develop practical skills through engineering projects, placements or work experience.
- Gain graduate experience in areas such as structural, transport or water engineering.
- Build expertise in engineering design, project management and infrastructure delivery.
- Progress towards professional recognition and senior engineering roles through ongoing experience and professional development.
Accreditation and qualifications
UniSQ's Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) is provisionally accredited by Engineers Australia, enabling graduates to pursue professional recognition and membership opportunities within the engineering profession. Professional accreditation can support your career progression as a civil engineer and may be required for some specialised or senior engineering roles.
How long does it take to become a civil engineer?
The time it takes to complete a civil engineering course can vary depending on your previous education, the training requirements of specific fields, and employment opportunities.
Generally speaking, a bachelor degree with a civil engineering major usually takes around four years of full-time study or the part-time equivalent. Many civil engineers also choose to pursue Chartered status through Engineers Australia. This typically requires at least five years of professional engineering experience, as well as demonstrated competency and ongoing professional development.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Prepare for a civil engineering career with a UniSQ engineering degree and develop the technical, analytical and project management skills needed to deliver essential infrastructure.
Responsibilities and work settings
Designing infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges and water systems.
Preparing engineering plans, specifications and technical reports.
Managing construction projects, budgets and timelines.
Conducting site inspections and engineering assessments.
Analysing data and applying engineering principles to solve problems.
Ensuring compliance with safety, environmental and regulatory requirements.
Collaborating with contractors, architects and project stakeholders.
Monitoring project progress and construction quality.
Construction and infrastructure companies
Engineering consultancies
Government agencies, departments and councils
Mining and resources companies
Manufacturing and industrial companies
Defence forces and defence contractors
Universities and higher education providers
Civil engineer FAQs
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