Types of Civil Engineering Explained: Guide

Civil engineering is a hugely broad field that covers several sub-disciplines, each specializing in different aspects of infrastructure and the built environment. In this blog, we’ll explore the main types of civil engineering, going into what each means, the responsibilities of the engineers in those fields, and the challenges they face. So whether you’re considering a career in civil engineering or just curious about the types of civil engineers that play a role in building and maintaining your world, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the essential sub-disciplines within civil engineering.

1. Structural Engineering

Structural engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering that focuses on the framework of structures, making sure they can handle the stresses and pressures of their environment while remaining safe, stable, and secure and all that good stuff. Structural engineers are full involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure, including buildings, bridges, towers, dams, and more. Their work involves a deep understanding of physics, materials science, and mathematical principles.

As we face more and more challenges from climate change, population growth, and urbanization, the role of structural engineers is becoming even more important. We really need them to design resilient structures that can withstand more extreme weather events, creating sustainable buildings that reduce our environmental footprint, and whipping up new materials and construction methods.

Responsibilities of a Structural Engineer

1. Design of Structures

Structural engineers work hand in hand with architects to translate architectural visions into safe and functional structures. They calculate the loads that a building or structure will need to support and select appropriate construction materials (such as steel, concrete, wood, or composites) to handle these loads. They then design structural elements like beams, columns, and foundations, ensuring that each component works together to support the entire structure.

2. Analysis of Structural Integrity

This involves using advanced software and mathematical models to simulate the behavior of structures under different scenarios, such as high winds, seismic activity, or heavy traffic. Structural engineers also conduct finite element analysis (FEA) to assess how different parts of a structure will react to loads, stresses, and other forces. This analysis helps to identify any potential weaknesses or points of failure, allowing engineers to make necessary adjustments before construction.

3. Selection of Materials

Structural engineers evaluate different materials based on their properties, such as strength, weight, durability, and resistance to environmental factors like corrosion, fire, and moisture. They must also consider the availability and cost of materials, as well as their environmental impact. For example, in designing a high-rise building, an engineer might choose steel for its strength and flexibility, concrete for its durability, and glass for aesthetic and energy-efficiency considerations.

4. Ensuring Compliance with Building Codes and Regulations

Structural engineers stay up-to-date with the latest building codes, standards, and regulations, which govern aspects such as load capacities, material specifications, and safety features. They make sure that their designs comply with these codes during the design phase, and they often work with regulatory bodies during the approval process. In some cases, structural engineers may also be involved in the inspection and certification of structures once they are built.

5. Risk Assessment and Mitigation

Structural engineers assess risks such as natural disasters (earthquakes, hurricanes, floods), material fatigue, human error, and long-term environmental effects. They design structures with these risks in mind, incorporating features like earthquake-resistant foundations, wind-resistant framing, and fire-resistant materials. They also develop contingency plans for potential failures, ensuring that even if part of a structure fails, the overall system remains safe.

6. Construction Supervision and Collaboration

Structural engineers collaborate with construction managers, contractors, and other engineers to oversee the implementation of their designs. They visit construction sites to inspect the quality of materials and workmanship, make adjustments to the design as needed, and make sure that safety protocols are followed. They also work closely with other disciplines, such as mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers, to integrate their systems within the overall structure.

7. Maintenance and Evaluation of Existing Structures

Structural engineers assess existing buildings, bridges, and other structures to determine their current condition and identify any necessary repairs or upgrades. This might involve inspecting for cracks, corrosion, or other signs of wear and tear. Engineers may also evaluate a structure’s ability to withstand new loads or environmental conditions, such as adding additional stories to a building or retrofitting a bridge for earthquake resistance. Based on their evaluations, they provide recommendations for repairs, reinforcements, or replacements.

Focus Areas of Structural Engineering

1. Buildings

2. Bridges

3. Dams

4. Towers and Masts

5. Offshore Structures

Pros & Cons of being a structural engineer

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Structural Engineer salary

The average salary for structural engineers in the United States is approximately $109,511 per year. However, this figure can vary significantly based on factors such as experience level, geographic location, and industry focus. Entry-level structural engineers, those just starting their careers, typically earn around $73,901 annually, with a range between $60,701 and $78,401. As engineers gain more experience, their salaries increase. Mid-level structural engineers, with 2-4 years of experience, can expect to earn between $78,583 and $93,932. Those with significant experience, often referred to as senior-level engineers, can earn between $101,716 and $123,767. Engineers in their late career, with over 20 years of experience, have an average salary of about $91,000 per year.

Geographic location plays a crucial role in determining salaries for structural engineers. For instance, in California, the average salary is $101,539 per year, while in Florida, it is $70,842. Engineers working in New York City earn approximately $78,709 annually, whereas those in Texas make around $69,966. In Washington, the average salary is $78,000 per year. Additionally, the industry in which a structural engineer works can impact their salary. Engineers in the aerospace industry earn an average of $92,000 per year, while those in the construction industry have a median salary of $76,000. In the oil and gas industry, the average salary is $96,000, and in the government sector, it is $82,000.

2. Geotechnical Engineering

Geotechnical engineering is a super important branch of civil engineering that focuses on understanding and managing the behavior of earth materials like soil, rock, and groundwater. These materials are the foundation of every structure we build, making geotechnical engineers essential for ensuring the safety, stability, and longevity of buildings, bridges, roads, dams, and other infrastructure.

Responsibilities of a Geotechnical Engineer

1. Site Investigation and Soil Analysis

They conduct field surveys, borehole drilling, and lab tests to assess soil composition, strength, density, and moisture content. This data helps engineers understand the site’s load-bearing capacity and any potential risks like landslides or soil liquefaction during earthquakes.

2. Foundation Design

Depending on the soil and load requirements, they may design shallow foundations (like spread footings) or deep foundations (like piles) that transfer the structure’s load to stronger soil layers or bedrock. They make sure that the foundation will prevent settlement, tilting, or other forms of structural distress.

3. Slope Stability and Earth Retaining Structures

Geotechnical engineers analyze the stability of natural and artificial slopes to prevent landslides or erosion. They may design retaining walls, berms, and other structures to stabilize slopes, ensuring they can resist the forces of gravity, water, and seismic activity.

4. Groundwater Control

Geotechnical engineers design drainage systems, dewatering plans, and other groundwater control measures to manage water levels around a site. This is SUPER important in areas with high water tables or where construction below the groundwater level is needed, such as basements or tunnels.

5. Earthquake and Seismic Engineering

Geotechnical engineers analyze how soils will react to seismic forces and design foundations and earth structures that can withstand shaking. Techniques might include soil stabilization, base isolation, and the design of flexible foundations that absorb seismic energy.

Focus Areas of Geotechnical Engineering

Geotechnical engineers work in a variety of specialized areas, each focusing on different aspects of earth materials and their interaction with human-made structures:

Pros & Cons of Geotechnical engineering

Pros

Working on challenges that are just so important to health and safety.

Cons

Testing and inspection work can be tedious and repetitive, and it’s often undervalued by clients, who usually only invest in it because it’s required by local regulations. If you prefer to avoid the hands-on aspects and focus more on office-based tasks, you might want to consider transitioning into consulting.

Geotechnical engineer salary

The average salary for a geotechnical engineer in the United States is approximately $74,831 per year, with salaries typically ranging from $56,000 to $99,000 annually. Entry-level geotechnical engineers can expect to earn around $73,801, with a range between $66,901 and $78,501. Salaries increase with experience; for instance, those with 5-10 years of experience can earn about $92,800. Geographic location significantly impacts salaries, with higher averages in states like Alaska, California, and Oregon. Industry also plays a role, as geotechnical engineers in sectors such as manufacturing and technology tend to earn more, with average salaries around $78,584.

3. Transportation Engineering

What is transportation engineering

Transportation engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering focused on the planning, design, operation, and maintenance of transportation systems. This includes roads, highways, railways, airports, and mass transit systems.

Responsibilities of a Transportation Engineer

1. Planning and Design of Transportation Systems

Transportation engineers analyze traffic patterns, forecast future transportation needs, and design roadways, intersections, railways, and public transit systems. They make sure that these systems are accessible, reduce congestion, and minimize environmental impact.

2. Traffic Management and Operations

They design traffic signals, signage, and road markings, and implement traffic management strategies to reduce congestion and accidents. They also use technology, such as intelligent transportation systems (ITS), to monitor and control traffic in real-time.

3. Safety Analysis and Improvements

Conduct safety audits, analyze accident data, and design improvements like better road layouts, pedestrian crossings, and barriers to prevent accidents and improve overall road safety.

4. Infrastructure Maintenance and Rehabilitation

Transportation engineers plan and oversee the maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation of roads, bridges, and other transportation facilities. This includes resurfacing roads, reinforcing bridges, and upgrading older infrastructure to meet current standards.

Focus Areas of Transportation Engineering

Pros & Cons of working as a Transport Engineer

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Transportation engineer salary

The average salary for transportation engineers in the United States varies considerably based on experience, geographic location, and industry. Entry-level Transportation Engineer I positions offer an average salary of around $64,458, with a range typically between $58,951 and $70,069.

As engineers gain experience, salaries increase; for example, Transportation Engineer II roles average about $81,633, with a range from $74,052 to $90,002.

Geographic location significantly impacts salaries. Cities with high living costs and large-scale transportation projects, such as San Francisco, New York City, and Los Angeles, tend to offer higher salaries to attract skilled professionals. For instance, transportation engineers in San Francisco earn about 25% more than the national average.

4. Environmental Engineering

What is Environmental Engineering?

Environmental engineering is a branch of civil engineering dedicated to protecting and improving the environment by developing solutions for issues like water quality, air pollution, waste management, and sustainable development. Environmental engineers work to make sure that human activities have a minimal impact on the natural world while also safeguarding public health.

Responsibilities of an Environmental Engineer

1. Water and Wastewater Management

Environmental engineers design and oversee systems for treating water and wastewater, ensuring communities have access to clean water and that wastewater is treated before being released back into the environment. This involves creating water treatment plants, sewage systems, and stormwater management solutions.

2. Air Quality Management

These engineers develop strategies and systems to reduce air pollution, ensuring cleaner air for communities. They work on controlling emissions from industrial processes, monitoring air quality, and implementing technologies to reduce pollutants like smog and greenhouse gases.

3. Waste Management and Recycling

Environmental engineers design and manage systems for the disposal and recycling of waste. They create landfills, recycling facilities, and waste-to-energy plants, ensuring that waste is handled in a way that minimizes environmental impact and conserves resources.

4. Pollution Control and Remediation

They work to prevent and clean up pollution in the environment. This includes designing technologies to remove contaminants from soil and groundwater, and creating systems to prevent the release of harmful substances into the air, water, and land.

5. Sustainable Development and Environmental Impact Assessment

Environmental engineers make sure that new development projects are environmentally sustainable. They conduct environmental impact assessments (EIAs) to evaluate potential environmental risks and suggest measures to mitigate those risks. They also promote sustainable practices in construction, energy use, and resource management.

Focus Areas of Environmental Engineering

Pros & Cons of being an environmental engineer

Pros

You get to look after the planet and feel good about it.

cons

A lot of environmental engineers say their job is mostly about clean up someone else’s mess, whether it be a company’s chemical spill on land, solid waste/wastewater management, or air quality, as opposed to innovating on new stuff.

Environmental Engineer salary

The average salary for environmental engineers in the United States is approximately $110,780 per year, with a typical range between $98,752 and $124,029. Entry-level positions generally offer salaries ranging from $53,000 to $65,000 annually. As environmental engineers gain experience, their salaries tend to increase. Mid-career professionals with 5-10 years of experience can expect to earn between $70,000 and $90,000. Senior-level engineers, particularly those with over ten years of experience or in managerial roles, can earn upwards of $100,000 to $120,000 annually.

Geographic location significantly influences salaries, with states like California offering higher average salaries, around $113,250, due to a higher cost of living and demand for skilled professionals. Environmental engineers working in metropolitan areas or regions with significant industrial activity typically enjoy higher salaries. Additionally, salaries can vary across different sectors, with those in the private sector often earning more than their counterparts in government roles, although the latter might benefit from more comprehensive benefits packages.

5. Urban Engineering

What is Urban Engineering?

Urban engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering focused on the planning, design, and management of infrastructure in urban areas. It encompasses a wide range of activities aimed at improving the quality of life in cities, including the development of transportation systems, water supply networks, waste management, and public spaces. Urban engineers work to create efficient, sustainable, and livable cities that can support growing populations.

Responsibilities of an Urban Engineer

1. Urban Infrastructure Planning and Design

Urban engineers plan and design essential infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, public transit systems, and utilities. They make sure that these systems are integrated and capable of supporting the demands of urban populations. This involves coordinating with architects, planners, and other engineers to develop comprehensive urban development plans.

2. Water Supply and Waste Management

These engineers design and manage systems for water supply, sewage, and waste disposal in urban areas. They make sure that cities have reliable access to clean water and effective systems for managing waste and wastewater, minimizing environmental impact and promoting public health.

3. Transportation Systems Development

Urban engineers develop and optimize urban transportation networks, including roads, railways, and public transit. They work to reduce traffic congestion, improve accessibility, and promote sustainable modes of transportation like cycling and walking, ensuring that cities are navigable and efficient.

4. Sustainable Urban Development

Urban engineers are key players in promoting sustainability in cities. They design infrastructure that minimizes energy use, reduces emissions, and conserves resources. They also work on green building projects, urban green spaces, and renewable energy initiatives to make cities more environmentally friendly and resilient.

5. Public Space and Urban Design

Urban engineers help design public spaces, such as parks, plazas, and pedestrian zones, to enhance the livability of urban areas. They focus on creating spaces that are safe, accessible, and aesthetically pleasing, contributing to the overall quality of life in cities.

Focus Areas of Urban Engineering

Pros & Cons of Urban Engineering

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Urban engineering salaries

The average salary for urban engineers in the United States is approximately $63,132 per year, with a range typically spanning from $38,000 to $103,000 depending on factors such as role, experience, and location. Urban engineers working in the engineering department tend to earn higher salaries, averaging $72,606 annually, while those in construction-related roles can earn similar or slightly higher amounts depending on their specific position. Geographic location also plays a significant role in salary variations, with urban engineers in areas like Cherry Hill, NJ, and Hartford, CT, earning some of the highest wages in the field. Additionally, roles such as project managers and construction managers within urban engineering command higher salaries, averaging around $91,000 annually.

6. Coastal Engineering

Coastal engineering is a specialized branch of civil engineering that focuses on managing and protecting coastal areas. This includes the design and construction of structures like seawalls, jetties, and breakwaters, as well as the development of strategies to prevent coastal erosion, manage flood risks, and protect against the impacts of storms and rising sea levels. Coastal engineers work to make sure the stability and sustainability of coastlines, balancing the needs of human activities with the preservation of natural ecosystems.

Responsibilities of a Coastal Engineer

1. Coastal Protection and Erosion Control

Coastal engineers design and implement structures and systems to protect shorelines from erosion caused by waves, currents, and rising sea levels. This includes building seawalls, groins, and revetments to stabilize beaches and prevent land loss. They also use techniques like beach nourishment to replenish eroded areas.

2. Flood Risk Management

These engineers develop strategies to manage and reduce the risk of coastal flooding, especially in areas prone to hurricanes, storm surges, and tsunamis. They design flood barriers, levees, and storm surge protection systems to safeguard coastal communities and infrastructure.

3. Harbor and Port Design

Coastal engineers design and maintain harbors, ports, and marinas to facilitate safe and efficient maritime transport. They make super sure that these facilities can handle ship traffic, resist the forces of waves and tides, and remain functional under changing environmental conditions.

4. Environmental Conservation

Coastal engineers work to protect and restore coastal ecosystems, such as wetlands, mangroves, and coral reefs, which play a crucial role in buffering shorelines from storm damage and supporting biodiversity. They design projects that enhance natural coastal defenses and minimize the environmental impact of human activities.

5. Climate Change Adaptation

With the growing impact of climate change, coastal engineers are increasingly focused on developing resilient infrastructure that can adapt to rising sea levels and more frequent and severe storms. This includes designing flexible and adaptive coastal management strategies that can evolve as conditions change.

Focus Areas of Coastal Engineering

Pros and Cons of Coastal Engineering

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Coastal Engineer Salary

The average salary for a coastal engineer in the United States is approximately $92,052 per year, with an hourly rate of about $44. Entry-level coastal engineers, with 1-3 years of experience, typically earn around $65,178 annually, while senior-level engineers with over eight years of experience can earn up to $113,968. Another source suggests a slightly lower average salary of $73,057, with a range from $55,000 to $112,000, indicating variability based on factors like location and experience. Entry-level positions generally offer salaries between $50,000 and $70,000, while mid-career professionals can earn between $70,000 and $100,000. Senior-level positions often exceed $100,000 annually.

7. Construction Engineer

What is Construction Engineering?

Construction engineering is a branch of civil engineering focused on the planning, execution, and management of construction projects. This discipline combines technical knowledge, project management skills, and an understanding of construction processes to make sure that infrastructure projects, such as buildings, roads, bridges, and other structures, are built efficiently, safely, and within budget. Construction engineers oversee the entire construction process, from initial planning through to the final completion, ensuring that the project meets the required standards and specifications.

Responsibilities of a Construction Engineer

1. Project Planning and Design

Construction engineers are involved in the early stages of project development, working closely with architects, civil engineers, and other stakeholders to create detailed project plans. This includes interpreting blueprints, developing construction schedules, and determining the necessary resources, such as labor, materials, and equipment.

2. Construction Management

During the construction phase, construction engineers oversee the day-to-day operations on-site. They coordinate with contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers to make sure that work progresses according to schedule. They also monitor the quality of construction to make sure that it meets the design specifications and adheres to safety standards.

3. Cost Estimation and Budget Management

Construction engineers are responsible for estimating the costs of a project and managing the budget throughout the construction process. They prepare detailed cost estimates, monitor expenditures, and make adjustments as needed to keep the project within budget. This includes managing resources efficiently and negotiating with suppliers and contractors.

4. Safety and Compliance

Ensuring safety on the construction site is a top priority for construction engineers. They implement safety protocols, conduct regular inspections, and make sure that all construction activities comply with local building codes, regulations, and industry standards. This helps to prevent accidents and ensure the well-being of workers and the public.

5. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

Construction engineers are often needed to address unexpected challenges that arise during construction. This might include dealing with delays, material shortages, or technical issues. They must be able to quickly assess the situation, develop solutions, and make decisions that keep the project on track.

Focus Areas of Construction Engineering

Pros and cons of Construction Engineering

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Construction Engineer Salary

The average salary for a construction engineer in the United States is approximately $102,583 per year, with a typical range between $93,773 and $114,046. Entry-level construction engineers, with 0-2 years of experience, earn an average salary of about $56,779, while mid-career professionals with 3-6 years of experience earn around $74,680 annually. Senior-level construction engineers, with 7-12 years of experience, can earn significantly more, with salaries averaging $132,833 per year.