Civil Engineer Jobs

How to Enter

Due to the complex nature of this job, engineering firms expect New Zealand professionals to hold a relevant degree. There are two main pathways in the case of Civil Engineering, the first is a four-year Bachelor of Engineering degree. The second is a three-year Bachelor of Engineering Technology degree which focuses on helping people become engineering technologists.

Typical Responsibilities

The role of a Civil Engineer is varied. On any one day, an engineer can expect to do any of the following:

Evaluating whether proposed construction and development sites are suitable
Evaluating if structures will be able to withstand stress from natural and artificial forces
Liaising with government officials, clients and other professionals
Designing structures such as roads, drainage systems, buildings, dams and wharves
Assessing any environmental impacts of all proposed constructions and developments
Obtaining building permits and approval from authorities
Ensuring structures are built correctly
Writing reports, working drawings and specifications

Progression

With hard work and ambition, a Civil Engineer can have limitless career options available to them. To start with, an experienced engineer could become a self-employed contractor, or specialise in Project Management, Construction Management, Planning, Estimation and Health & Safety.

In addition, Civil Engineers who undergo further training and gain a National Diploma in Quantity Surveying could open the door to becoming a Quantity Surveyor and manage project finances. A Bachelor’s degree however, would make it significantly easier to progress into more senior or management-based Quantity Surveying roles. Otherwise, other options for Engineers include specialising further within Civil Engineering such as Environmental, Fire Protection, Geotechnical, Structural, Transport and Water Resources.