As a construction engineer, you will be overseeing all phases of a buildings development. You'll start with initial surveys and researching local environmental laws and regulations. Then you will plan out the entire actual construction project, and advise the workers along the way. Using plans and blueprints that you may be involved in creating, you'll create a complete project plan that will see the building erected from start to finish.
Construction Engineers require a four year degree to obtain an entry level field engineer position; there are many different schools and training programs that can provide the needed education and degree. You'll need to pick up some pretty specific skill sets, to include surveying, planning, architecture, mathematics and project management skills.
Good team work abilities are another essential trait for the aspiring construction engineer. Working well with others is a critical requirement in an environment where doing your job successfully will entail others doing their jobs well and on time. For this to happen, other people need to be able to enjoy working with you.
Typical employers for the kinds of careers construction engineers are employed in would include large contractors and government agencies. Construction engineers earn an average of 54 thousand a year as entry level field engineer, but remember, that is simply an average. With experience, and depending on your location, your salary expectations could be significantly higher. As a level two field engineer, average salary can reach above 70 k; level 4 engineers earn even more - up to 110 thousand a year at the high end.
If you choose a management route after gaining experience, then as a construction manager, you would be looking at 85 thousand and higher. Advancement opportunities for construction engineers basically include working up the ranks from field engineer 1, the entry level, to field engineer 4, a lead role and senior position. Becoming a construction manager, superintendent or project manager are other career paths.
The Job market for construction engineers and other careers construction workers are employed in is beginning to stabilize significantly. Though the economic downturn has caused significant job losses in this arena, with the economy rebounding, growth projections for this career path are projected to increase. Even now, some states are adding construction jobs, while other states are still experiencing a decline in the total number of construction engineers and other workers.
If you love working outside, but wish to be more than just another construction worker, then continue acquiring the skills that and others careers construction engineers can work in require. Getting this kind of training will allow you to be in charge of the whole process. Turning blueprints into buildings is a fascinating occupation, the money is good, and you will have the opportunity to excel in what you love and grow both personally and financially in the process.
