What Is Construction Engineering? – All You Need To Know
Construction is one of the world’s largest industries. Whether building a new bridge or a skyscraper, you need a construction engineer to supervise and complete a project. In this article, we will be discussing everything you need to know about construction engineering, jobs, career paths, salaries, and requirements.
What is Construction Engineering?
The management and delivery of construction projects are simply referred to as construction engineering. A ‘construction’ is defined as any building project used for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes. Construction engineers are civil engineers who have received training in the field of construction management.
They plan construction activities, supervise the installation of structural elements, and inspect completed building projects. Construction engineers collaborate with architects and engineering technicians on building design and problem-solving on the project.
Most construction engineers make use of computer-aided design software to design infrastructures like residential housing, bridges, skyscrapers, industrial warehouses. They also apply their project management skills to gather detailed reports on the feasibility and cost estimation of a construction project.
However, the demand for construction engineers is solely dependent on the state of the construction industry in each country.
Differences Between a Construction Engineer And a Civil Engineer
It is crucial to differentiate between the responsibilities of a construction engineer and that of a civil engineer. One of the most significant distinctions is that civil engineers typically concentrate on the design, analysis, and planning of construction projects.
While a construction engineer may be involved in these processes, their core responsibilities are related to project execution and on-site management. Construction engineers oversee the day-to-day construction process, ensuring that all designs and plans are followed. The following are some general responsibilities of a construction engineer.
- Creating budgets for the construction process and reporting back to stakeholders
- Assembling high-tech equipment and machinery
- Supervising a team of construction professionals
- Overseeing the safety and progress of the building process
- Using computer software to modify design specifications
Ultimately, construction engineers play a more crucial, hands-on role in the successful completion of major building projects.
Construction Engineering Salary Range
If you’re an engineer considering a career in the field of construction, then you can either work as a construction engineer or construction engineering manager. According to PayScale, the median annual salary for a construction engineer was around ₦2,250,000 and ₦2,999,993 for construction engineering managers, as of December 2021.
You should note that the salaries differ depending on a variety of factors such as experience, education, and geographic location. Construction engineering professionals are in higher demand in urban or metropolitan areas and are paid more competitively.
Construction Engineering Educational Requirements
Education is an important factor to consider when pursuing a career in construction engineering. Construction engineering positions typically only require a bachelor’s degree, preferably in engineering or construction management.
However, those who possess an advanced degree tend to have an increased chance of landing the best jobs and earning higher pay. Those who earn a master’s degree develop leadership and management skills, making them better suited for positions leading larger engineering or construction teams.
Careers in Construction Engineering
Construction engineers can pursue a variety of career paths, including some that are within the subfield of construction engineering technology. This field focuses on the technical aspects of construction site supervision and often employs cutting-edge technologies to ensure high-level precision.
The following are some careers that are subcategories of construction engineering that you can specialize in:
1. Construction Manager
Construction managers are in charge of overseeing the administrative aspects of a construction project from start to finish. Scheduling, budgeting, monitoring spending, construction progress, and ensuring subcontractors are performing well are just a few examples of common responsibilities. The skills listed below are some of the most important for construction managers.
- Team management
- Delegation
- Organization and planning
- Financial management
- Familiarity with cutting-edge construction tools, and technologies
According to PayScale, the annual median salary for construction managers in September 2020 was around $77,000. Pay levels vary depending on factors like experience and whether you have completed an advanced degree in a related field.
2. Surveyor
Surveyors study the lay of the land. They provide precise and accurate measurements of the land on which construction is to be carried out. Surveyors use reference points to give their measurements meaning and clarity. The following are some of the skills that surveyors must have.
- Expertise in mathematics and the ability to perform precise calculations
- Proficiency with new surveying tools and program technology
- Clear communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Problem-solving
In 2020, surveyors earned a median annual salary of $65,590, according to BLS data. Experience and education level may have an impact on this number.
3. Sustainability Specialist
Some construction projects need the use of “green” or environmentally friendly methods. Sustainability experts conduct research and analysis to develop sustainability guidelines and best practices. The following are some of the most important skills for this position.
- Analytical thinking
- Attention to detail
- Strong computer skills and IT proficiency
- Clear communication and reporting skills
- Decision-making
According to PayScale, as of September 2020, sustainability specialists earned a median annual salary of around $60,000, depending on their education and experience.
4. Facilities Manager
Facilities managers are in charge of the upkeep and supervision of commercial or residential buildings. Their job is to make sure that, once the construction is finished, the buildings run smoothly. A wide range of technical skills, including basic carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, heating, cooling, and beyond, may be required for success in this field.
Skills in team leadership and project management are also essential. According to PayScale, the median annual salary for facilities managers in September 2020 was around $67,000. Higher salaries may be demanded by those with advanced degrees or more experience.
5. Field Engineer
A field engineer’s job is to keep an eye on and protect the equipment used on a construction site. They are in charge of the equipment’s integrity and safety, and as a result, they play an important role in keeping workers safe and productive. Equipment is also tested regularly by field engineers. This position should have a specific set of abilities.
- Problem-solving
- Clear communication skills
- Critical and analytical thinking
- Strong technical proficiency
According to PayScale, the median annual salary for this position in September 2020 was around $64,000. Salary ranges are influenced by a combination of factors such as experience and education.
Conclusion
Construction engineering is crucial to the development of our homes, workplaces, public spaces, cities. Because this career path encompasses so many subspecialties, it provides a plethora of exciting career options. Exploring relevant educational programs, such as a master’s degree in civil engineering and related fields, is a great way to get started pursuing some of these opportunities.