What is a Civil Engineering Technician?
Civil Engineering Technicians are the intuitive problem-solvers in civil engineering. These skilled professionals work under the charge of Civil Engineers, in the planning, designing, and building of all manner of civil infrastructure and development projects. They install, troubleshoot, and maintain the designs created by engineers to introduce new highways, bridges, utilities, land development, residential, commercial, industrial, and other infrastructure projects. They also survey, collect data, and test environmental elements, and construction materials.
Civil Engineering Technician Duties:
The day-to-day duties of Civil Engineering Technicians can be quite varied. Their responsibilities will be greatly influenced by the demands of the projects they are involved in and the companies they work for, but in general they are commissioned with the following tasks:
- Consult with engineers to prepare plans, engineering specifications, and use computer aided design (CAD) software to draft project drawings. Analyze drawings and plans to determine the dimension specifications of structures.
- Conduct field surveys to collect data on project site conditions, topography, drainage, and water supply, as well as investigate buildings, structures, highways, and other road systems. Collect soil samples for technical investigation.
- Estimate expenditure and prepare budgets for operating facilities and constructing systems. Strictly and diligently ensure proposed budget compliance. Understand client requirements and provide realistic troubleshooting for project obstacles.
- Collaborate with supervising civil engineer(s) to consider and decide to what extent plan(s) may be deviated from.
- Monitor the suitability of process and construction materials.
- Prepare timelines for material supply, human resource, and other considerations needed for projects. Establish project files and help maintain records.
- Overlook project sites to ensure that construction adheres to design specifications.
- Meet with government officials to certify construction complies with building standards.
- Execute varied technical functions in alignments of civil engineering pursuits.
Civil Engineering Technician Job Requirements
Educational Requirements:
Civil Engineering Technicians are typically required to complete a 1 or 2-year diploma, or technician certificate in civil engineering technology or a closely related discipline from an accredited school. Diploma graduates from accredited schools are eligible for membership with the Canadian Council of Engineering Technicians and Technologists (CTAB) and the Applied Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) Membership with a government approving body boosts your likelihood to be hired considerably. Schools that offer a co-op or practicum as part of their program will also bolster your chances to be hired. Gaining working experience in the field is an asset that companies look for in new hires. Make sure to take your time researching educational institutions to find the perfect fit for your needs!
In unison with meeting the expected education requirements, complimentary skills and abilities can ensure satisfaction in your career and will set you apart from the competition when you are being considered for the position of a civil engineering technician in most companies. These can be natural skills, or you may need to acquire them through education, training, and experience.
Skill Requirements:
- The ability to work effectively under pressure.
- Critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills.
- The ability to follow minimum safety requirements.
- Reading comprehension with a strong understanding of mathematics and sciences.
- Active listening and conflict resolution skills.
- Interpersonal and social perception skills with a strong ability to work with others with the ability to communicate effectively orally, in writing, and via electronic mediums with strong attention to detail.
- Proficiency in software such as AutoCAD, Microsoft Excel, and Microsoft Word.
Salary and Job Forecast
In the province of British Columbia, the projected annual median salary is: $70,910 (Calculated based on a 40-hour work week x 52.14 weeks per year)
Hourly wage you can expect to earn:
Source: 2020 Job Bank Wage data WorkBC
10-year projected job openings:
Source: 2020 Job Bank Wage data WorkBC
Getting Started
Now that you are ready to begin considering schools, we recommend getting in touch with one of our admissions officers at Brighton College. We have the accredited partner programs to ensure you are fully equipped with all the educational requirements, and skill building courses you will need to succeed long-term in your new, rewarding career as a Civil Engineer Technician!
For more information, or to book an appointment with an education advisor, fill out the form below or call 604-256-6828.
