Guide To A Successful Civil Engineer Career Path

Branches of engineering take you on different career paths, one of which is becoming a civil engineer. If you dream of creating buildings that solve modern society’s problems, then following the career path of a civil engineer might be ideal for you.

Civil engineers have everything to do with the structures and facilities around us. Tourist spots and other famous infrastructures in Malaysia are the results of civil engineers’ talents, skills, and expertise. Engineering professions are also one of the most in-demand jobs in the country, considering their vital role in the nation’s growth and advancement.

What does a civil engineer do?

Civil engineers are often involved throughout the process of any project — from planning to the maintenance stage. However, there are civil engineering specialisations that may focus on specific tasks and types of structure.

In general, the job can fall into a consultant role or a contractual one. A consultant engineer creates the project design before the construction process starts. A contract engineer mostly takes charge of on-site tasks such as implementing and constructing the structure. You can also land different roles based on your interest and preferred type of structure.

Construction Engineer

Construction engineers can be similar or have another title as contractual engineers. They mainly work on-site to manage and supervise the construction project to meet timely completion. 

Structural Engineer

They are designers and safety experts who analyse and assess structural designs based on functionality, stability, and strength. They consider costs, feasibility, and uncontrollable factors such as environmental disasters.

Transportation Engineer

These are civil engineers working on making people’s commuting lives safer and more efficient. Transportation engineers design, plan, and construct roads, railways, airports, seaports, and bridges.

Geotechnical Engineer

They are experts in the behaviour of site soil, rock, water, and other earth materials that impact the current or soon-to-be-built structure. A geotechnical engineer may perform both on-site and laboratory works.

Environmental Engineer

Civil engineers are also problem-solvers for environmental issues. Environmental engineers aim to find practical solutions against air and water pollution, excessive waste, and improper disposal. 

Water Resources Engineer

This role encompasses designing and building hydraulic structures such as dams, canals, barrels, and other distribution systems that collect and manage water resources. 

What are the tasks of civil engineers?

Although there are different sub-disciplines, it is best for all civil engineers to be familiar with executing these tasks.

• Creating detailed infrastructure designs
• Planning, implementing, and managing construction projects
• Maintaining, repairing, and improving infrastructure systems
• Conducting feasibility studies and site inspections
• Assessing safety and potential risks of every project plan to users and the environment
• Coordinating with clients and other professionals such as architects and subcontractors
• Running stability tests on soil and structure foundation 
• Providing solutions to design and construction problems
• Examining and procurement of construction materials
• Generating cost estimates for labour and materials
• Preparing and submitting bids for tenders
• Reviewing laws, ordinances, and other policies
• Creates progress reports for clients, public agencies, and other stakeholders
• Efficiently manage projects to ensure timely completion

How much do civil engineers earn?

According to Payscale, the average expected salary of civil engineers is around RM39,703 per year, with an hourly rate of RM15.00. The base salary is RM3,000 per month.

Experience level and skills are two main factors that can affect your salary. You are likely to receive an above-average wage if you have more experience and are highly skilled.

The Jobstreet Salary Insights provides similar average data. The average civil engineer salary is RM3,200, while the most common at the lowest scale is around RM2,600. Your location, years of experience, and specialisation are the top factors in your pay rate. 

What is the career path of a civil engineer?

Every position you will go through prepares you to take on more experienced roles. Keep an eye on these positions when searching for the right opportunity.

Junior Level (1-3 years experience)

• Junior Engineer
• Site Engineer
• Assistant Engineer

Mid Level (4-8 years experience) 

• Site Supervisor
• Assistant Manager
• Assistant Executive Engineer

Senior level (8 years or more) 

• Project Manager
• Senior Engineering Manager
• Superintendent Engineer
• Executive Engineer

What requirements do you need to become a civil engineer?

Required skills

• Technical skills

It is best to be skilful in designing software including AutoCAD and project management tools such as Microsoft Project.

• Analytical and problem-solving skills

Civil engineers are critical decision-makers, so it should be part of your nature to analyse situations logically and consider numerous factors to provide effective solutions.

• Organisational skills

You need to be adept at managing your time and energy while working on different projects. Always provide hands-on project supervision while accomplishing other requirements efficiently.

• Leadership and team management

You should take time to establish trust and effective working relationships with your team. Embody a leader who is authoritative, motivating, and works with your members to achieve your goals.

• Communication

You should possess excellent oral, written, and listening skills. Listen well to understand clients’ needs and your team’s suggestions and concerns. Explain designs, construction, and other project matters clearly to all stakeholders.

Educational background

Your civil engineer career path starts with obtaining a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering. A Master’s Degree can also offer global career opportunities. A PhD is preferred if you plan to explore academic roles.

Required certification and training

Graduate Engineer Registration

Malaysians and non-Malaysian graduates must register as a Graduate Engineer with the Board of Engineers Malaysia (BEM) to practice civil engineering in the country. Take note of the qualifications recognised by the BEM for successful registration.

Professional Engineer Examination

To become a Professional Engineer, you must be registered as a Graduate Engineer, have a minimum of 3 years of experience, and have successfully passed the assessment examination.

Opportunities for Continuous Education

Take online courses

Upgrade your technical skills and stay up-to-date with the newest digital tools and software.

Explore careers in different sectors

Look for opportunities in public or private sectors to grow your portfolio and expand your network.

Work on your soft skills

Continue to upskill and grow your transferable skills as they are as important as your technical skills.

Pursue postgraduate studies 

A Master’s Degree or a PhD can open more career paths for civil engineers, from increasing your value to providing more advancement opportunities.

How to write a civil engineer resume?

Download the Civil Engineer free resume template here

Related Careers

Are you interested to know more about the engineering industry? Here are other related career paths that await you.

• Software Engineer
• Electrical Engineer

The civil engineer career path can be a long road to take, but with experience, skills, and passion, you will surely build a rewarding and thriving career. 

Log in now to Jobstreet to update your profile and starting your search for #JobsThatMatter. Visit our Career Resources for more comprehensive guides on different career paths.