How to Become a Structural Engineer

A structural engineer works in the construction of large buildings and structures. They use their knowledge of materials and engineering to ensure that buildings are constructed safely and efficiently.

Structural engineers combine their knowledge of engineering and construction to assess the safety and efficiency of various buildings and structures. They help with designing structures, setting budgets and managing contracts. 

The main duties of a structural engineer are:  

• Creating plans for particular engineering structures
• Researching and advising on materials 
• Calculating the loads and stresses of a specific building
• Predicting how different structures will react to weather conditions using computer technology
• Improving energy efficiency through building construction
• Inspecting buildings that have been considered unsafe and deciding whether they can be repaired or if they should be demolished. 
• Supervising projects
• Investigating building damage and destruction

To become a building engineer, candidates generally have a degree in structural engineering. Alternatively, they could take a higher level diploma, which will give them the same level of qualification, or an apprentice degree, which is a degree with work placements.

They could also enter the field as a civil or construction engineering technician, where they can study while working. 

Many engineering degree courses offer a year in industry, which is hugely beneficial for building engineers. Gaining relevant work experience is essential to help them learn vocationally and assess whether the career is right for them. Work shadowing and internship placements may also be possible in this career. 

As structural engineers expertise in the safe construction of buildings, they should have a keen attention to detail. Maths skills are also necessary for this vocation; they will often need to work with numbers when analysing floor plans. 

Being able to communicate with other professionals is essential. Building engineers will need to work with architects, builders, and other professionals in the industry to share their findings. 

Essential hard skills are a high degree of computer literacy and maths and physics competency. Secondary qualifications in these subjects may highlight these skills. They should also be proficient at making and understanding diagrams. 

The structural engineer salary is generous and increases with experience.