Civil Engineering Technicians
Overview
Civil engineering technicians work alongside engineers to help design and build the infrastructure around us, from highways and bridges to residential developments. You'll use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed project drawings, conduct field surveys to collect site data, and test construction materials to ensure they meet safety standards. This hands-on career combines office work with outdoor fieldwork, where you'll inspect construction sites and prepare reports that keep projects on track. Many technicians start with an associate degree in engineering technology and develop expertise in areas like surveying, materials testing, and project management.
Did you know?
Most positions require an associate degree in civil engineering technology or construction management, along with potential state-specific certifications for specialized tasks.
At a Glance
Median Wage
$64,141.76 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top Skill
Judgment and Decision Making
Key Responsibilities
- Respond to public suggestions and complaints.
- Develop plans and estimate costs for installation of systems, utilization of facilities, or construction of structures.
- Calculate dimensions, square footage, profile and component specifications, and material quantities, using calculator or computer.
- Conduct materials test and analysis, using tools and equipment and applying engineering knowledge.
- Analyze proposed site factors and design maps, graphs, tracings, and diagrams to illustrate findings.
- Draft detailed dimensional drawings and design layouts for projects to ensure conformance to specifications.
- Read and review project blueprints and structural specifications to determine dimensions of structure or system and material requirements.
- Report maintenance problems occurring at project site to supervisor and negotiate changes to resolve system conflicts.
- Prepare reports and document project activities and data.
- Negotiate with contractors on prices for new contracts or modifications to existing contracts.
- Plan and conduct field surveys to locate new sites and analyze details of project sites.
- Inspect project site and evaluate contractor work to detect design malfunctions and ensure conformance to design specifications and applicable codes.
- Confer with supervisor to determine project details such as plan preparation, acceptance testing, and evaluation of field conditions.
- Develop project budgets by estimating the cost of project activities.
Career Considerations
Educational Requirements and Certification
Most positions require an associate degree in civil engineering technology or construction management, along with potential state-specific certifications for specialized tasks.
Physical Demands and Safety Risks
The role involves significant outdoor work in various weather conditions and construction sites with inherent safety hazards requiring strict adherence to OSHA regulations.
Job Market Growth and Stability
Employment prospects are closely tied to infrastructure spending and economic cycles, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting steady growth due to aging infrastructure needs.