1. Career 1: CIVIL ENGINEER
Job Description
● consult with clients, government officials and other professionals on the requirements of
each project
● evaluate the suitability of proposed construction and development sites
● plan and design structures such as roads, drainage systems, buildings, dams or
wharves
● work out whether structures will be able to withstand the loads that will be placed on
them by people, weather and other natural forces
● prepare reports, working drawings and specifications
● prepare cost estimates and evaluate the cost efficiency of projects
● assess environmental impacts of proposed developments
● get plans approved by relevant authorities and obtain building permits
● supervise construction to ensure structures are built correctly
● ensure assets such as water plants and roading are efficiently managed.
Working Conditions
● usually work regular business hours, but may need to work evenings and weekends or
be on call
● work in offices and in the fields at locations such as construction sites
Approximate Salary - $55,000/year (Bonuses, and a company car)
Career Path
● Bachelor of Engineering - BE
● Bachelor of Engineering Honours - BE(Hons).
Education Required
● civil engineering and surveying methods
● relevant legislation such as the Resource Management Act, the New Zealand Building
Code, by-laws and town planning regulations
● building materials, and how they work.
Post-Secondary training
● A university entrance qualification (NCEA Level 3) is required. Useful subjects include
English, maths with calculus, physics and chemistry.
Why is this a good career for you
Civil engineers need to be:
● skilled at analysing and interpreting information
● practical and logical, with good problem-solving skills
● safety-conscious
● good at planning and organising
● creative and innovative, with good design skills
● able to work well under pressure
● able to work independently and in a team.
