Structural engineers are responsible for designing the backbone of infrastructure and making sure it’s safe.
What is structural engineering?
Structural engineering is a civil engineering discipline responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction, demolition, and alterations of structures.
Careers
The field is expected to grow 6% in the next decade! Among engineering fields, structural engineering has many opportunities.
The average salary is $85,000 and the average entry-level salary is $67,000.
Education
The entry-level education is typically a bachelor’s degree in structural or civil engineering. A master’s degree with an emphasis in structural engineering is highly recommended.
Duties and Skills
Structural engineers are often involved in construction, where they’re involved in designing new buildings or overseeing work done by contractors. Inspecting structures during and after construction meets regulations, permitting, and safety guidelines.
Some duties of structural engineers include:
- Preparing reports, designs, and drawings
- Performing calculations about loads and stresses
- Selecting appropriate construction materials
- Providing technical advice
- Monitoring and inspecting work done by contractors
Structural engineers have many skills that are applicable in a range of positions. Some of thes skills include:
- Problem-solving
- Communication and presentation
- Teamwork
- Close attention to detail
- Responsible
- Calm under pressure, able to meet deadlines and budget
Historical Figures
Some iconic industrial engineers include Sarah Guppy, Elmina Wilson, and Yasmin Sabina Khan.
