What is Construction Engineering?
What is Construction Engineering?
Successful construction projects require the hard work and coordination of skilled individuals with knowledge of high-level strategic planning and the ability to provide thoughtful oversight. Construction engineering professionals can provide this expertise. A construction engineer influences all aspects of the building process, providing essential leadership to complete a project efficiently and effectively.
Construction Engineers vs. Civil Engineers
A construction engineer is a type of civil engineer tasked with construction oversight. They’re involved in most aspects of the construction process regarding the construction and upkeep of infrastructure, such as buildings and roads.
While construction engineers and civil engineers can provide a lot of the same knowledge, there are differences between the two types of engineering. One of the main differences is what they oversee on a construction project. Civil engineers typically focus on a construction project’s design, analysis and planning. A construction engineer may participate in this process, but their responsibilities center around on-site management, meaning they are often present at the construction site. Construction engineers primarily focus on the execution of the project.
The Role of Construction Engineers
According to the Journal of Architectural Engineering Technology, “Construction engineers receive training in techniques, methods, costs, scheduling, and staff management. Their top priority is to complete a job on time, on budget, and to the highest possible standard.” Construction engineers coordinate, organize and manage the day-to-day construction process, ensuring compliance with designs and plans. They can also help prepare studies about the project’s cost and timeline and collaborate with other engineers and building crews to ensure safety, efficiency and success. In addition to overseeing the project, they also communicate with key stakeholders on projects’ progress or challenges.
Earn an Online Master in Civil Engineering
Types of Construction Engineering Projects
Given the critical role of construction engineers, they can oversee many complex, high-profile projects. Some examples include:
-
Large buildings. Some construction engineers are responsible for strategically designing and completing structures, including airport terminals or office buildings.
-
Electrical systems. Construction engineers may manage the development of large-scale electrical systems to supply power safely and reliably to buildings or groups of buildings.
-
Mechanical systems. Construction engineers may oversee the completion of mechanical systems, including elevators, escalators, indoor heating and cooling systems and plumbing systems.
-
Public infrastructure. A construction engineer may be tasked with building a new highway or tunnel or with ensuring that a new building or group of buildings connects properly to main roads, ensuring accessibility.
Is Construction Engineering a Good Career Path?
Those interested in pursuing the construction engineering sector can choose from many jobs with unique growth and salaries. Construction engineers had an average salary of $76,229 in August 2023, with the highest paid earning more than $80,000.
Salaries vary from one position to the next based on several factors, including experience, education and geographic location. In general, construction engineers and construction engineering managers with more experience will command higher salary ranges. An advanced degree, such as a master’s degree in civil engineering with a construction engineering concentration, will typically lead to higher pay.
What are the Educational Requirements for a Construction Engineer?
Most construction engineering roles only require a bachelor’s degree, ideally in a field related to engineering or construction management. However, those who earn an advanced degree may be more competitive in the job market, increasing their likelihood of finding the best roles and commanding the highest salaries. Those with master’s-level degrees also develop leadership and managerial competencies, which means they may be better suited for leading larger teams.
Roles in Construction Engineering
Construction engineers can gain the education and experience to perform many roles. Below are just a few jobs that those with a background in construction engineering can pursue. Each has varying educational requirements and necessary skills.
Field engineer
Field engineers safeguard the equipment used at a construction site. They ensure the safety and integrity of construction tools and materials by testing and monitoring them, which is essential in keeping construction workers safe and efficient.
Field engineers benefit from the following skills:
-
Problem-solving
-
Clear communication skills
-
Analytical and critical thinking
-
Strong technical proficiency
According to Salary.com, field engineers working in the construction business had an average salary of $69,607 in August 2023, with the highest paid making more than $80,000.
Construction manager
Construction managers oversee a project's administrative tasks from beginning to end, which may include scheduling, budgeting, monitoring construction progress and managing subcontractors.
Some essential skills for construction managers include:
-
Team management
-
Delegation
-
Organization and planning
-
Financial management
-
Familiarity with construction methods, tools and technologies
In 2021, construction managers made a median salary of $98,890, with the highest-paid construction managers making more than $125,000 that year.
Surveyor
Surveyors work to provide accurate measurements of the land where construction projects are planned. Using reference points, surveyors provide precise measurements and context for construction crews.
A few of the skills necessary for a surveyor include:
-
The ability to make precise calculations
-
Proficiency with technology, including new surveying programs and tools
-
Attention to detail
-
Physical stamina to move through rugged terrain
According to the BLS, surveyors had an annual median salary of $63,080 in 2022.
Cost estimator
Cost estimators collect and analyze data to assess the labor and cost of manufacturing and construction.
Those in this career benefit from the following skills:
-
Analytical skills
-
Attention to detail
-
Time management
-
Writing skills
-
Mathematical understanding
In 2022, the median pay of cost estimators was $71,200 per year, with the highest paid among them working in civil engineering and construction.
What is the Best Degree for a Construction Engineer?
An excellent way to start pursuing some of these opportunities is to explore relevant educational programs — such as a master’s degree in civil engineering from Ohio University. As a student in the online M.S. in Civil Engineering program, you will delve into advanced topics and acquire specialized knowledge in construction estimating and equipment, project development, contract and law, heavy construction management, construction planning and scheduling, forensic analysis of construction failures and more. You will also hone your management, communication and problem-solving skills, helping you graduate ready to step into the next phase of your professional journey.
Your Future Starts Here
Call Us
740.924.5725
to speak with a knowledgeable Enrollment Counselor.