Civil Engineers

Civil Engineers

Civil engineering is the broad term covering the design and maintenance of structures including pavement design, roads and bridges, stormwater and wastewater, sewer pipework and pumping chambers. Civil engineers and engineering consultants design, carry out siteworks, build and monitor construction and provide maintenance services. Innovations in the field mean the discipline is constantly evolving, with a current trend towards works that support sustainable design. 

What do civil engineers do?

• Provide civil engineering design services

• Roading, accessway and pavement design

• Earthworks and drainage

• Design and install stormwater and wastewater solutions, sewer pipework and pumping chambers

• Siteworks design

• Monitor construction

• Support sustainable design

What are the sub-disciplines of civil engineering? 

Within the broader field, there are numerous specialist sub-disciplines including surveying, structural, geotechnical, environmental, transportation, urban, coastal, water and construction. Civil engineering consultants are involved in land development engineering work mainly on landscaping and commercial projects carrying out planning and design, site layout, construction and maintenance activities. 

Questions to ask civil engineering consultants

Why is design important in engineering? 

Engineering designs ensure the project delivered is feasible, fit for purpose, economical and, where relevant, aesthetically appealing.

What do you believe are the specific challenges of this project? 

To prevent unwelcome surprises and delays it is best to be fully aware of any issues from the outset. The civil engineer will be able to explain any unique challenges, how these will be dealt with, and the implications that they might have on cost and programme. 

Who will be the key contact for this project? 

Communication between contractors and clients is vital to positive outcomes on construction projects. It is important to know who to contact with queries or complaints, and how best to reach them, be it phone, text or email – and what their promised response times will be. 

What is meant by the term three waters? 

Engineers involved in water supply activities will often work across the ‘three waters’, these being drinking water, stormwater and wastewater services. This can be anything from detention ponds, swales, rain gardens and green roofs, to extension of wastewater lines, or pressure testing and supply analysis for residential and commercial developments.

Other professionals you might be interested in engaging include: Acoustic Engineers, Geo-technical Engineers, Foundation Specialists, Builders, Consultants, Quantity Surveyors