Job Guide to Civil Engineers
Pipeline Engineer
A pipeline engineer
- specialises in preparing design proposals for pipelines and pipeline equipment, facilities and structures in consultation with petroleum and mechanical engineers
- works out a suitable layout of lines based on accurate map and surveying, and analyses operations and maintenance costs to determine efficiency and devise improvements or innovations in the system
- provides technical advice on the operation of machinery and equipment used to transport petroleum products through pipeline systems.
Railway Engineer
A railway engineer
- studies design proposals and advises on the construction, maintenance and repair of railway systems including tracks, terminals and yards
- studies the natural features of proposed routes and plans the types of rail beds, rail size and curves to meet train speed and load requirements
- conducts traffic surveys to establish suitable routes for rapid transit or urban railway systems.
Structural Engineer
A structural engineer
- designs the framework of buildings, towers, bridges, water treatment structures, tunnels and other structures to make sure of strength and rigidity
- studies new materials and methods and their impact on design and construction.
Civil engineers may work in offices or spend much of their time on site. They may be required to work long hours and meet strict deadlines while working under minimal supervision. Civil engineers deal with various professional, skilled and semi-skilled people. Consulting and contracting engineers often travel interstate and some travel overseas. It may be necessary for some civil engineers to change residence every few years as their work takes them from one major engineering site to another.
