Typically, the work of a civil engineer involves building, supervising, and inspecting infrastructural projects in both the public and private sectors.
Civil engineers are usually out in the field in a supervisory role overseeing the construction of roads, bridges, dams, tunnels, buildings, water supplies, and sewage systems, among many works.
Many people don’t know that civil engineers can also work from home. Depending on the tasks in question, civil engineers can work remotely.
This post explains how civil engineers can work from home without compromising service delivery.
Keep it here to find out more.
Can civil engineers work remotely?
Yes. It’s very much possible for civil engineers to work remotely as long as the scope of work does not require onsite inspections and supervision.
The work of a civil engineer involves a lot of onsite tasks, but it also entails designing, drawing, and developing 2D and 3D models and blueprints.
Suppose your job description only requires you to design, draw, and interpret structural diagrams, images, and measurements. In that case, you can comfortably work from home and deliver results via email or even over the phone.
Designing structures, preparing models, drawing plans, and entering or interpreting data does not require your physical presence. You can work remotely and deliver a splendid job.
Typically, many people expect a civil engineer to work in a construction site or infrastructural project. However, as the world shifts towards technology, this is no longer the case. A civil engineer can work from home and submit deliverables digitally.
Many companies are now embracing the idea of hiring work-at-home civil engineers in an attempt to cut transport costs and decongest the office. However, remote options are currently part-time rather than full-time positions.
If you are searching for a remote position as a civil engineer, consider working as a consultant or a freelancer. In any case, most tasks in this field require onsite supervision and inspections. Freelance engineers can take up the role of designing structures and drawing plans.
But even as a freelance civil engineer, your onsite presence might sometimes be necessary to inspect the progress of various projects and ensure everything is on schedule.
What kind of work can a civil engineer do remotely?
Even though the work of a civil engineer entails a lot of site inspections and construction oversight, there are plenty of tasks one can do remotely.
Many engineering companies have realized that not all processes need to be onsite. Some of the duties a civil engineer can do remotely include:
- Designing structures
- Preparing 2D and 3D models
- Drawing plans
- Interpreting structural data and measurements
- Quantity survey
- Preparing project schedules
- Creating observation reports
- Recommending changes to specifications
Also read Can Chemical Engineers Work From Home.
How can a civil engineer work from home?
For civil engineers to work from home, they need to invest in proper equipment and the right technology. If you are mulling over the prospects of working remotely, you need to set up a home office.
A remote civil engineering office must have a powerful computer loaded with relevant software programs, including AutoCAD, Primavera P6, SolidWorks, and Civil 3D.
The laptop or desktop must meet the minimum software and hardware requirements for creating engineering blueprints.
Read more Do Civil Engineering Students Need Laptops?
Constant communication is vital when working remotely. Remote civil engineers must keep in touch with other professionals on the ground via phone, emails, video calls, and other video conferencing. With this in mind, your home office should have stable internet connectivity.
Which companies allow civil engineers to work from home?
Previously, very few companies hired civil engineers to work from home. However, with the emergence of the COVID-19 global pandemic, many companies are now changing their mindset and allowing civil engineers to work remotely.
Examples of companies that employ remote civil engineers include:
- Stantec
- Atkins
- Comcast Corporation
- Vinci
- Arcadis
Do civil engineers work away from home?
Typically, civil engineers spend a lot of time working away from home. Their job description involves a hands-on approach to solving various problems in public works.
For instance, when working in a disaster zone, a civil engineer may have to be onsite for days or even weeks, planning to repair damages, restore destroyed buildings or bridges, and design new constructions.
What is the work of a civil engineer?
As the name implies, civil engineers work for the country. Their job entails designing and constructing roads, bridges, sewer systems, water utilities, schools, hospitals, railways, factories, and power stations.
Also read: Can Mechanical Engineers Work As Civil Engineers?
Do civil engineers make good money?
Yes. Like any other engineering job, civil engineers make good money. Engineering is a lucrative career, but you have to work hard and smart in school before becoming a competent civil engineer with a high-paying job.
Also see Electrical Vs. Robotics Engineering.
Do civil engineers only work for the government?
No. Civil engineers do not only work for the government. No doubt, a considerable portion of them work for the government, but their skills are also helpful in the private sector.
In essence, civil engineering is relatively broad and entails working for the public and private sectors.
The skills of a civil engineer come in handy in designing and constructing private buildings, private airports and airstrips, water utilities, electrical systems, and private landfills.
Is it hard to get a job as a civil engineer?
No. It is not hard to get a job as a civil engineer. The latest stats suggest that the global demand for civil engineers is set to rise by 8 percent between the years 2020 and 2030.
However, securing a civil engineering job depends on your skills and proficiency. If you have the quality, competence, and experience, you can land your dream job easily without much struggle.
Is civil engineering a stressful job?
Civil engineering can be stressful if you do not have the passion for the job. It entails a lot of planning, drawing, designing, implementing, onsite inspection, supervision, and networking. You must have excellent interpersonal skills to handle the rigors of the job.
Many people who choose civil engineering do not see the job as stressful but rather as a welcome challenge. Solving problems brings a sense of achievement and self-gratification to civil engineers.
Final thoughts
No doubt, civil engineering requires a hands-on approach with an onsite presence. The job entails supervising and inspecting various projects to meet the required standards and quality.
However, some processes do not require your presence. With this in mind, civil engineers can work from home without much fuss.
