Structural engineer : Employers and vacancy sources

Most structural engineers work in engineering consultancies. These organisations range from large companies operating internationally, sometimes with offices in many countries, to small firms run by one person. A directory produced by The Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE)  is available online at Find an Engineer . The large consultancy companies provide a broad range of work, high level of training and occasional opportunities for international travel. Smaller firms tend to specialise in specific areas of engineering, and the geographical spread of their clients is less extensive.

Large construction companies often offer their clients a ‘design and build’ service, maintaining their own designers including structural engineers.

Smaller construction firms take on contract engineers when they need them for specific projects.

Other employers include railway operators, aircraft manufacturers, oil companies and local authorities - who have responsibility for many buildings including civic offices, schools and buildings listed as of historic value.

University departments employ structural engineers as researchers and lecturers.

Sources of vacancies

• Search graduate jobs on this site.
• Careers in Construction  
• Find an Engineer  
• ICErecruit  
• JustEngineers  
• The Structural Engineer Jobs  
• Target Jobs Civil and Structural Engineering  
• UK Engineering Recruitment  

Recruitment agencies such as Thomas Telford Recruitment  and Matchtech specialise in engineering vacancies. The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) has details of agencies handling engineering vacancies, which can be searched geographically.

Get tips on job hunting, CVs and covering letters and interviews.