In this article, we will take a look at the civil engineer starting salary and will also check out the job description of a civil engineer…
Engineering is a great profession. There is the satisfaction of watching a figment of the imagination emerge through the aid of science to a plan on paper. Then it moves to realization in stone or metal or energy. Then it brings homes to men or women. Then it elevates the standard of living and adds to the comforts of life. This is the engineer’s high privilege.
These words by Herbert Hoover emphasize the important role engineers plays in our society. An engineer’s profession is looked upon highly and is one the top careers in demand. Engineering is divided into many branches like electronics, informational, mechanical, instrumentation, telecommunications, petroleum, civil, etc. Before we take a look at the civil engineer starting salary, let us know a bit more about it.
Civil engineering, like other branch of engineering, has become one of the most sought after careers today. It is not surprising that their salary is up there with the likes of doctors, surgeons, lawyers, etc., and it is being looked upon as one of the top careers for 2011. Civil engineers are responsible for the planning, design and construction of buildings, bridges, airports, tunnels, dams, roads, etc.
Educational Qualifications of a Civil Engineer
Civil engineers must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering. A strong aptitude for mathematics and physics, and the ability to think logically, are some of the characteristics that ensure that not only you become a civil engineer, but you are also good at it. Besides, as the job can take you places, the ability to communicate effectively with people of other countries can be an added advantage. For example, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are some of the cities where construction is going on a grand scale and skilled civil engineers are sought after. Most of the colleges offer a four-year engineering course on the completion of which you are awarded a college degree and can immediately apply for engineering jobs.
Job Description of a Civil Engineer
- One of the most important and foremost jobs a civil engineer needs to do is to conduct an investigation of the construction site to check out the feasibility of construction in that area.
- A civil engineer is also entrusted with the job of understanding the architectural drafting and design of the site.
- One of the most important role of civil engineer is to do a risk analysis of the proposed activity so that human life is not put to risk.
- A civil engineer is also responsible for managing the labor effectively and ensuring their safety.
Average Starting Salary for Civil Engineers
According to payscale, the average starting salary for civil engineers is about $51,517 and for experienced civil engineers, the average salary is $74,570. The range of civil engineering salary with 0-1 years of experience is $42,227 to $53,723. As far as the city wide analysis is concerned, New York has the highest starting salary with freshmen making as much as $55,949 per year.
Some of the other cities which have a higher starting salary are Houston, Denver and Chicago. If we compare the state-wise salary, California is at the top with average starting salary for civil engineers as good as $58,819, followed by Texas and New York. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) came out with the report that average starting salary for civil engineers for students of April 2010 batch was $52,443.
So, if you are currently pursuing your civil engineering course, rest assured that numerous career opportunities are waiting for you. The only thing that you need to ensure is that you have a passion for engineering as it will determine your further growth in this field.