Features: An insight into structural engineering

Structural engineers make a difference by shaping the built environment. People who are suited to this job will enjoy a challenge, innovation, responsibility, excitement and variety

As a career it will present both creative and technical challenges and requires a keen eye for problem solving.

Structural engineers will need to possess an aptitude for the following practical skills, including: numerical, analytical, scientific, problem-solving, creative and technological, notably computing and software. They will also need workplace skills including project management, communications, team working, initiative and attention to detail.

 

In addition is the need for client-handling skills, which include:

Academic requirements

If you are already studying a degree and you are looking to further your career in structural engineering, you will need to meet the academic requirements to proceed to a chartered, associate membership or technician status. Details can be found at the Engineering Council .

You will also need to determine whether your course is accredited under UK-SPEC or whether your academic qualifications fall under previous engineering council regulations e.g. Standards and Routes to Registration (SARTOR).

If you have an academic qualification from a course that is not accredited by the institution or noted under a mutual recognition agreement, you can still qualify to become a member by applying for an academic assessment.

Your civil or structural engineering programme should be accredited by the institution through the Joint Board of Moderators  or an institution-approved equivalent qualification.

What will you do?

A structural engineer will monitor the progression of an architectural project from initial stages to completion. They usually create initial design models, using in-depth mathematical and scientific knowledge, and, once construction has started, they monitor the work and meet with contractors to ensure that the designs are being followed closely.

On a day-to-day basis, the tasks of a structural engineer will vary. The morning could be spent in the office designing and calculating, while the afternoon could be spent on site, working out the logistics and ensuring designs are bought to life safely and accurately. Find out about some of the typical work activities of a structural engineer.

What types of structural engineering roles are there?

• Forensic engineers investigate the materials, products, structures or components to determine the causes of structural failures.
• Seismic engineers play a vital role in earthquake-prone countries by improving the evolution of seismic resistant design of traditional and engineered structures and ensure earthquake resilience.
• Humanitarian engineers choose to contribute to disaster relief work, as the skills of a structural engineer are incredibly important in areas where buildings and infrastructure have been destroyed.

Are there jobs available?

There is considered to be a skills gap growing in the UK, with at least 10,000 fewer engineers available than thought needed in the economy. It is expected that this gap will grow as demand for structural engineers grows, both in the UK and worldwide

What is the graduate pay-scale like?

According to a specialist survey by Hays Construction, the national average salary for structural engineers ranges from £19,818 for a graduate engineer to £42,545 at an associate level. Those at the highest levels of experience and prestige may achieve considerably more. There are significant difference in regional pay levels, with lower salaries on average in Northern Ireland and Scotland, and higher salaries in Central London and the South East.