Site engineer : Entry requirements

Although this is a career open to all graduates, it would be useful to posses a degree/HND in one of the following subjects:

• civil engineering;
• structural engineering;
• building surveying;
• building engineering;
• construction studies.

It is important that the degree is accredited and meets the academic requirements of a professional body. In construction the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)  is the main professional body, while in engineering the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE)  and the The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE)  are the key professional bodies in the field.

Graduates with non-accredited or non-cognate degrees are required to undertake a conversion course to upgrade their academic qualifications. There are also many dedicated postgraduate courses available in the construction and engineering field, designed for existing professionals in the industry.

Initial entry without a degree or HND is possible, with apprenticeship opportunities or options to work in lower positions such as a trainee technician while taking further study. Progression on to more supervisory roles can be achieved with experience.

Pre-entry experience in a construction/engineering environment is desirable and is highly regarded by recruiters. Vacation or sandwich placements are therefore advantageous and may be invaluable if the degree is not directly relevant. A work experience placement can also give a good understanding of the industry as a whole, show what skills are required, and help to assess suitability for the work.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following:

• knowledge of relevant legislation;
• communication skills, written and oral, with the ability to liaise effectively with a range of other professionals, e.g. construction managers, quantity surveyors, subcontractors, architects, designers, other engineers, etc.;
• a methodical approach, good analytical skills, accuracy and attention to detail;
• organisational and negotiation skills;
• strong team working skills;
• excellent IT skills;
• project management skills.

A driving licence is usually required, and a willingness to work long, abnormal hours can be advantageous. Having foreign language skills can also be a bonus if working with or for multinational companies.

A number of major construction and engineering firms offer industrial placements and actively seek new entrants at on-campus presentations, while others expect graduates or final year undergraduates to make the approaches. Some employers will also offer sponsorship to undergraduates.

Recruitment drives by large construction groups generally match academic timetables. Applications are generally required in October/November of your final year for graduate training programmes starting the following October or November. However, recruitment may take place all year round, particularly in the case of small to medium-sized companies.

Try to develop contacts in the industry, possibly through work experience, your academic department, personal contacts and local representatives of professional bodies and associations. Join one of the professional bodies, which usually offer free student membership, as this provides access to professional journals and information about vacancies.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.