What is a Civil Engineer Technician?

The Bureau of Labor describes their nature of work as “help civil engineers plan and build highways, buildings, bridges, dams, wastewater treatment systems, and other structures, as well as do related research.  Some estimate construction costs and specify materials to be used… prepare drawings or perform land-surveying duties…”

I like to describe it as the right hand man of the engineer.  As you earn the trust of the engineer, you will handle the day to day issues, calling him in on unusual or things outside your experience.  You allow the engineer to concentrate on the difficult issues.  This also provides a savings to the client.  Outside of the engineering firm, the role is similar.  It is to provide the oversight to ensure the work is proceeding as intended or bring it to the attention of the appropriate people if you have concerns.

Will I work outside or inside?

This varies depending on your duties.  As a draftsman/designer, your duties will probably be almost exclusively inside at a computer.  As a surveyor, your duties will probably be almost exclusively outside.  Most involve a mix of inside and outside, with ratio varying greatly.

When do I need to submit my application?

Please visit the Admissions page.

What are the job opportunities / job market (availability)?

Anywhere there is growth and construction; there is an opportunity for a Civil Engineering Technician.  As with most jobs, the more skills you bring, the more opportunities.  A quick check of the help wanted ads shows positions available.

What can I expect to earn as an experienced Civil Engineering Technician?

Some positions run into the mid 50s.  The Bureau of Labor list the median income of $38,480.

Will this allow me the opportunity to experience the world of civil engineering before committing to a four year degree? What degrees might I seek from here?

Our Associate of Applied Science in Civil Engineering Technology is designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to allow you to enter the workforce after graduation.  If you choose to further your education, you could move onto a bachelors Engineering Technology program or other related science program.  The courses you would need to take would have to be worked out with the school.

There are Mechanical Engineers, Structural Engineers, Geotechnical Engineers, where does Civil Engineering fit into all of this?

Civil Engineering generally revolves around “horizontal” construction, that is the construction of roads, drainage, water and sewer systems.  Geotechnical (soil) work is an area of specialization in civil engineering.  It is also common for civil and especially geotechnical engineers to work with foundations.  Structural is an area of specialization that focuses on structures (bridge spans, building structures, etc) and is an area of specialization that is typically populated by individuals with mechanical or civil backgrounds.  Environmental engineering is also an area that is impacts greatly in civil design and is an area of specialization that civil engineers sometimes work in.  In general, individuals start in a general role and develop in an area of specialization based on their work experience.