How to become a Civil Engineering Technologist
Civil engineering technologists assist civil engineers in the research, design, construction and maintenance of civil engineering projects. Typical projects include dwellings, large buildings, railways, roads, bridges, airports, ports and docks, dams and water supply systems.
Personal requirements for a Civil Engineering Technologist
- Good analytical skills and an eye for detail
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Aptitude for computing and design
- Practical and creative
- Good problem-solving skills
- Able to work without supervision
- Able to accept responsibility.
Duties & Tasks of a Civil Engineering Technologist
Civil engineering technologists may perform the following tasks:
- Estimate costs and prepare specifications for materials used in civil engineering works
- Assist in establishing detailed programmes for the planning of the design and construction processes
- Communicate with project managers and construction workers
- Organise the delivery of materials, plant machinery and equipment needed for construction
- Supervise labour
- Analyse and record reports on loading, labour, productivity, quality, materials and performance
- Operate and programme computers to assist with calculations
- Measure and test materials, processes or systems related to civil engineering works
- Inspect civil engineering works, and supervise repair work and maintenance
- Check to ensure that finished works are within specifications, contract terms and regulations.
Working conditions for a Civil Engineering Technologist
Consulting and contracting engineering technologists often travel interstate, and some may travel overseas. It may be necessary for some civil engineering technologists to change residence every few years as their work takes them from one major engineering site to another.
Specializations
Civil engineering technologists may specialise in buildings, water resources, soils and foundations, transport or town planning.
