Civil Engineer Jobs

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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.