Employment
According
to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, civil engineers hold about
329,200 jobs in the U.S.
Employment opportunities
for civil engineers exist all over the world. Civil engineers are needed
everywhere to plan, design, construct, operate, improve, and renovate
the projects essential to modern comfort and growth.
Specialty areas such as transportation, construction, structural lead to work with government agencies working to improve infrastructure, companies developing nonresidential construction (hotels, airports, industrial parts, malls, etc.), or independent consulting firms. Other specialty areas and industries employing civil engineers include those working on environmental or geotechnical projects, those involved with utilities and surveying, and those supporting the telecommunications infrastructure. Examples of employers range from engineering service firms, to government organizations, to large corporations. Some ocean engineers work as consultants and educators, supporting the next generation of engineers.
 Globalization
While there are abundant opportunities to work internationally as a
civil engineer, it takes some special preparation to do well abroad.
Speaking more than one language is a major advantage. Being able to adapt
to new conditions rapidly is another. Although the international
workforce is becoming more mobile every day, traditionally big
engineering firms tend to send experienced senior level staff on
international assignments. Studying abroad is one way to investigate how
interested you are in working internationally. Some form of
international work or study experience is a strong credential for a
young civil engineer. Even if you do not want to work in other countries
on a regular basis, understanding engineering from a global perspective
will enhance your ability to complete domestically in what is,
increasingly, a world market.
Note: Some resources in this section are provided by the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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