Civil engineer

Career path and progression

It's important to continue your professional development as a civil engineer.

For example, you could look to get incorporated or chartered engineer status. This would allow you to move into positions with more responsibility, such as senior management roles on large scale projects.

With experience, you could also:

• specialise in a particular engineering field
• work in research
• become an engineering consultant
• work with international development organisations or disaster relief agencies

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• knowledge of building and construction
• maths knowledge
• design skills and knowledge
• thinking and reasoning skills
• complex problem-solving skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Mathematics - Civil engineers use mathematics every day – from calculating structural loads and forces to analysing data using mathematical modelling methods. Geometry, algebra, and calculus are essential for designing safe structures like bridges, buildings, and flood defences.
• Physics - Civil engineers need to understand forces, materials, energy, and mechanics to design structures that can withstand loads, weather, and natural disasters. Physics underpins decisions about how bridges hold weight, how water flows through drainage systems, and how buildings resist wind.
• Design and Technology - Civil engineers create detailed design plans and models, choosing appropriate materials and construction methods for each project. Understanding the design process – from initial concept through to prototyping and testing – is central to how they develop practical engineering solutions.
• Engineering - Civil engineers apply engineering principles to plan, design, and oversee the construction of infrastructure like roads, bridges, and flood defences. Understanding engineering science and technology is at the core of everything they do, from structural analysis to project delivery.
• Geography - Civil engineers assess how projects interact with the natural environment, including flood risks, coastal erosion, and land use. Understanding terrain, weather patterns, and environmental systems helps them design infrastructure that works with the landscape rather than against it.

Also relevant

• Computer Science - Civil engineers use specialist software to create design models, run structural simulations, and analyse complex data sets. Understanding how these computational tools work – including algorithms behind modelling software – helps them produce more accurate and efficient designs.
• Environmental Science - Civil engineers assess the environmental impact of construction projects and increasingly design with sustainability in mind. Understanding topics like pollution, ecosystems, and resource management helps them choose sustainable materials and minimise the environmental footprint of their work.
• Geology - Civil engineers need to understand the ground they build on – different rock types, soil conditions, and how land behaves under pressure. This knowledge is crucial when designing foundations, tunnels, and any structure where ground stability affects safety.
• Business - Civil engineers manage budgets, coordinate teams, and work closely with clients to deliver projects on time and within cost. Understanding project management, financial planning, and client relationships helps them lead large-scale construction work effectively.