Structural engineers design and create infrastructure projects such as pipelines, bridges, and other mechanical structures. People in this position supervise other engineers and construction crews on a regular basis. Structural engineers are supervised by the chief civil structural engineer assigned to a project, and usually find work with chemical plants, refineries, and utility plants. People in this field are highly organized and detail-oriented; they work partially in office environments and partially at building sites.
Structural engineers work on a variety of infrastructure projects and may be hired by many different industries, but the key duties are the same for everyone in this field. The main tasks associated with being a structural engineer are:
Analyze Maps, Blueprints, and Charts
Structural engineers look at detailed charts and schematics on a regular basis to determine the best way to build new projects and repair existing infrastructure systems.
Design Project Plans
Structural engineers create new design plans for brand-new infrastructure systems, as well as creating plans to repair existing buildings, bridges, and other structures.
Write Reports and Estimates
Structural engineers write detailed project reports and cost estimates for proposed building and repair projects that show detailed timetable, material, and construction data.
Oversee Construction Sites
The structural engineer is responsible for hiring and managing construction staff, which requires frequent check-ins at building project sites.
Hire Engineering Staff
Structural engineers may need to hire other engineering professionals for large-scale building and repair projects, which requires acting as a supervisor to keep projects moving ahead on schedule.