Civil Engineering Technician

Your Fit

Income

$61K

Preparation

Medium

Growth

0.9%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Civil Engineering Technician?

A Civil Engineering Technician assists civil engineers in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of structures and facilities such as roads, bridges, airports, and water treatment systems. They play a critical role in turning engineering plans and ideas into reality.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Civil Engineering Technician.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Civil Engineering Technician earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$39K per year	$48K per year	$61K per year	$77K per year	$91K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $13K above the national average.

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What does a Civil Engineering Technician do?

Work environment

Civil Engineering Technicians typically work in offices where they assist in planning and designing civil projects, but they also spend time at construction sites to monitor progress and solve on-site problems. They may be employed by government agencies, engineering firms, or construction companies. Work can involve both indoor and outdoor environments.

Quick task list

Assists in the planning and design of civil engineering projects.
Prepares and interprets blueprints and technical drawings.
Inspects project sites to monitor progress and ensure compliance with design specifications.
Collects and analyzes data for traffic flow, environmental impact, or material testing.
Assists in the preparation of cost estimates for materials and labor.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Construction Management: Overseeing construction projects to ensure they meet design, budget, and schedule.
Environmental and Geotechnical: Focusing on projects involving environmental assessments and the behavior of earth materials.
Transportation: Specializing in the planning and development of transportation systems.
Structural: Assisting in the design and analysis of structures like bridges and buildings.
Water Resources: Working on projects related to water supply, flood control, and drainage.

Description

Civil Engineering Technicians form the backbone of many civil engineering projects. They translate the designs of engineers into workable plans and specifications for construction teams. Their role requires a solid understanding of engineering principles and practices, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with both engineers and construction workers.

A day in the life of a Civil Engineering Technician can vary greatly. Some days might be spent in the office preparing plans and models, while others might involve being on-site to oversee construction activities or conduct inspections. This variety keeps the job interesting and challenging.

Technological proficiency, particularly in CAD software, is essential for this role. Technicians must be detail-oriented, as accuracy in their work directly impacts the safety and success of engineering projects. They often work in teams and must have good interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with other professionals.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to the creation and maintenance of essential infrastructure.
The opportunity to work on a variety of projects in different settings.
The satisfaction of seeing projects develop from plans to completed structures.

You might make a good Civil Engineering Technician if you are...

Interested in construction and infrastructure development.
Skilled in mathematics and technical drawing.
A problem-solver who enjoys practical, hands-on work.
Detail-oriented and capable of translating theoretical concepts into practical applications.
Able to communicate effectively and work well in a team environment.

Pros:

Opportunities to work on diverse projects that have a tangible impact on communities.
Balanced work environment with a mix of office and fieldwork.
Steady demand for skilled technicians in civil engineering projects.

Cons:

Potential for working in outdoor conditions, which can be challenging.
Need to adapt to various work environments and schedules based on project demands.
Sometimes requires dealing with strict deadlines and budget constraints.

How to become a Civil Engineering Technician

Typical education

Most positions require an associate's degree in civil engineering technology, which is typically a 2-year program. Some positions may favor candidates with additional certifications or work experience.

High school preparation

Courses:

Mathematics, especially algebra, geometry, and trigonometry.
Physics to understand basic principles relevant to civil engineering.
Computer classes for developing skills in CAD software and other technical tools.
Technical drawing or drafting classes, if available.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in engineering or science clubs.
Joining construction or building-focused projects, like Habitat for Humanity.
Engaging in STEM competitions or camps.

Preparation after high school

Earning an associate's degree in civil engineering technology or a related field.
Pursuing certifications in specialized areas like CAD or construction management.
Gaining practical experience through internships or apprenticeships in civil engineering firms or related companies.
Considering continuing education for career advancement opportunities.

More resources

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) - Offers resources and networking opportunities for those in the civil engineering field.
National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) - Provides certification programs for engineering technicians.
Autodesk Education Community - Offers access to CAD software and training.
Technology Student Association (TSA) - Provides opportunities for students to explore STEM fields, including engineering.
Civil Engineering Technician Program Guide - A guide to educational programs and careers in civil engineering technology.

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