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Civil engineering involves creating, improving and safeguarding the environment. Projects in this industry may involve constructing bridges, tunnels, roads and railways.
For those with a strong desire to work in civil engineering jobs, it is essential to achieve a degree or HND in civil engineering or a related discipline. The minimum qualifications required to work towards a degree in civil engineering are A levels in maths and physics. BTEC awards in engineering may also be acceptable. Graduate engineers who go on to study for postgraduate qualifications may be able to gain professional registration as incorporated or chartered engineers.
It is also possible for prospective civil engineers to enter into technician-level jobs in this industry through securing a place on an advanced apprenticeship scheme following leaving school with GCSE passes in English, maths and science. Apprenticeship schemes may lead to NVQs, HNCs/HNDs or foundation degrees in engineering.
Civil engineering graduates are sought after by national and international building contractors and consulting firms, local authorities, and utility and travel companies. Employment opportunities are regularly advertised through recruitment agencies and shows and typically involve working on large-scale projects with other engineers. The majority of full-time civil engineers work 37 hours a week, with evening and weekend work being commonplace.
New graduates working in civil engineering jobs are likely to receive salaries of around £20,000 a year. Staff may also receive additional benefits, such as overtime pay, bonuses and a company car. Civil engineers with proven abilities and experience may be able to move into higher paid chief engineer posts.