Engineering

Engineering is a fundamental part of the modern-day landscape. Without it, civilization would not have access to the advanced equipment, machinery, and complex infrastructure that it enjoys today.

As a discipline, engineering is regarded as a cornerstone that is not only integral to modern-day society, but like inter-related fields such as science, is one that is essential for the advancement and progression of human civilization as a whole

Engineering is a discipline that has been practised since the early stages of modern civilization, and it’s one that has steadily been growing and evolving ever since

Engineers use their expertise to innovate and find new solutions to different problems across a wide spectrum of industries including aerospace, automotive, biomedical, construction, electronic, energy, environmental, I.T, manufacturing, robotics, telecommunications, and so much more…

As a discipline, it concerns itself heavily with design processes. These are used to conceptualise and construct a wide range of structures, machines, apparatuses, and manufacturing processes, and are also used to refine and enhance those processes wherever possible. As technology and accumulated knowledge steadily improves, these processes evolve and improve with them. It’s also why, amongst other things, engineering is a field concerned heavily with learning and continuous improvement. Moreover, it’s also why, when it comes to looking at core competencies in the interview, continuous improvement is one of the most useful things you can emphasise wherever most engineering roles are concerned

Those involved in an engineering profession will most commonly utilise skills such as mathematics, problem solving, analysis, and computing skills (particularly involving the application of (CAD) computer-aided design software allowing for the conceptualization of detailed 2D and 3D models), and, along with the technical skills and qualifications they possess, will use these to undertake and implement a huge array of different mechanical and structural engineering projects, perform general maintenance, repair, and inspection duties, and so much more. This is typically accomplished via close collaboration with other colleagues across a wide spectrum of interdisciplinary fields, which is why those who decide to pursue a career in engineering must, among other things, show a willingness and history of being able to collaborate closely with others

Engineers are first and foremost thought of as creators and innovators, using their expertise to explore and find solutions to a wide range of challenges faced throughout the economies of today. However, there are also plenty of engineering roles that are less orientated around design and construction, and that are more focused on the maintenance and repair of essential types of equipment and infrastructure instead. In these sorts of roles, there tends to be less emphasis on collaboration and more emphasis on the technical skills of the individual in question

No matter what the type of role in question though, engineering is a largely nascent field, consisting of a large number of types and sub-specialisations, that’s why those who are interested in pursuing engineering as a career have a large spectrum of areas to choose from, ranging to everything from Aeronautical engineering, Bioengineering, Chemical engineering, Civil engineering, Computer engineering, Electrical engineering, Geological engineering, Marine engineering, Mechanical engineering, on top of other sub-specialisations and so much more…

Engineers are both highly skilled and highly trained in their respective areas of specialisation. This means that advanced degrees and qualifications, along with extensive training, are usually always needed if you want to work in an engineering vocation, and many roles will require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree (which can range between three to five years of study), although some people will go on to obtain Meng/ MScs before embarking on their careers to strengthen their prospects – indeed in some roles this is preferred and without a requisite masters level of qualification finding employment may prove more difficult in certain engineering roles. Additionally, oftentimes engineers are required to go on and attain further deemed chartered or professional engineering qualifications before they can work in their chosen field of specialization

Engineering plays a key role in helping move modern day society forward and is considered crucial when it comes to driving economic development and improving quality of life. On top of this, it also has profound importance when it comes to addressing the global challenges that today’s populations face. That’s why those who take up a degree in engineering will not only find themselves in a field where they can enjoy a rewarding role in a career with great job security, but also one where there are usually numerous opportunities for career development, and in many cases, where the pay and benefits are well above average too. This being on top of the prestige and respect that comes from working in such a highly qualified and highly valued role.
(A spectrum of engineering disciplines represented below)

Chemical Engineering

Chemical engineering is a branch of engineering that applies principles from chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology, to not only manufacture chemicals on an industrial scale, but also to manufacture other materials produced using chemically based ingredients, such as plastics and medicines

Those who work in this field will typically have at a minimal a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering, and may also have additional certifications too, such as the Certified Process Safety Professional, Project Management Professional, or Hazardous Materials Manager certifications

As a discipline, this branch of engineering is concerned with safety and production efficiency through optimizing the processes used in chemical manufacture, particularly at the conversion stage where raw materials are used to make the chemical products themselves

Chemical Engineering Duties

Applies maths, physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering principles to the commercial manufacture of chemical products

Designs the equipment, systems, and processes used in areas such as biomolecule fermentation, petroleum, and microfabrication production, and may also design equipment, systems, and processes used in the refinement of raw materials needed for those and other chemical production processes

Works in laboratory or field-testing environments, translating and developing new processes for the refinement or (large scale) manufacture of chemical products

Monitors and optimizes costs and production capabilities

Complies with relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations

Devises and compiles new safety procedures where required

Salary £33,698 – £39,492, depending on employer and years of experience

Civil Engineering

Civil engineering very is a broad term that encompasses a wide range of engineering disciplines. As such, a civil engineer can be involved with a project right at the start from its conceptualisation, through construction, and all the way to its completion and even through its post completion stages and decommissioning

Those classed as civil engineers may be involved in a wide plethora of industrial or commercial projects, and these typically come in the form of things like airports, roads, railways, bridges, dams, tunnels, sanitation infrastructure, energy production infrastructure, transportation infrastructure, and other buildings or apparatus used at regional or national levels. The term civil engineer is a general classification used to denote engineers working within this specific sector of engineering, although within this categorization several specialist subcategories exist. Furthermore, a civil engineer can work both in a contractual or consultancy capacity, typically earning a generous salary as well as enjoying great benefits and solid job security. One of the main responsibilities civil engineers have is to ensure projects get completed on time and within budget, and that all appropriate compliance and regulatory codes are adhered to accordingly. Other types of duties a civil engineer can expect to perform includes the following:

Providing insights in the form of reports, analysis, and feasibility studies

Advising on building codes and regulatory requirements

Assessing environmental costs and risk factors

Estimating costs and projected timelines

Next, we’ll take a look at the roles found throughout the fields that constitute the civil engineering discipline as a whole:

Bridge Engineering
Bridge engineering is a type of engineering that specialises in the design and construction of bridges and other related infrastructure used specifically to facilitate transportation over man-made obstacles and impassable landmarks such as bodies of water, mountains, and valleys, etc. In this capacity, bridge engineers may work on a range of highway, rail, sea, or coastal based infrastructure projects

Those who work in this field will typically have at minimal a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, and will normally have additional certifications too, such as the Bridge Inspector Certification, Structural Engineering Certification, or Bridge Management Systems Certification

Bridge Engineering Duties

Specialises in bridge design and construction

Performs structural analysis and testing to ensure operational integrity, onsite inspections to ensure construction plans are being adhered to properly, and risk assessments to assess and mitigate the risk of bridge failures, accidents, and structural deficiencies

Works with advanced software to perform computer simulations used to evaluate the behaviour and performance of bridge components under different stresses and conditions

Complies plans to extend the service life of existing bridges and other related infrastructure in the form of things like maintenance prioritisation and structural strengthening blueprints

Ensures all relevant regulatory compliance is adhered to and may also perform public relations duties by way of providing information to stakeholders, community groups, government officials, and the general public about ongoing projects

Salary £36,200 – £67,294, depending on the employer and years of experience

Coastal Engineering
Coastal engineers specialise in designing and planning infrastructure with a view to tackling coastal based infrastructure challenges such as flooding, rising sea levels, and coastal erosion. Coastal engineers normally work along coastlines in coastal communities, helping to develop things like seafront buildings alongside other types of protective and essential coastal based infrastructure

Those who work in this field will typically have at a minimum a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, although master’s degrees in coastal engineering are also very common in this field too. On top of advanced qualifications, you will also find coastal engineers almost always have additional certifications such as Certified Coastal Geologist certifications, a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control, Certified Coastal Zone Manager certification, or a Certified Floodplain Manager certification, amongst others

Coastal Engineering Duties

Responsibilities include managing and protecting coastal areas against erosion, flooding, and other natural hazards. As such duties may extend to constructing seawalls, revetments, breakwaters, and groynes in order to stabilize and reduce shoreline erosion

Performs beach nourishment to replenish eroded beaches, as well as sediment transport analysis and environmental impact assessments

Designs and performs structural analysis on coastal structures including piers, jetties, harbours, and marinas

Constructs stormwater detention basins alongside other green infrastructure to control runoff, prevent erosion, and mitigate any potential decline to water quality in aquatic ecosystems

Uses mathematics and sophisticated computer software to predict and analyse the behavioural patterns of coastal water processes

Salary £38.330 – £62,712, depending on the employer and years of experience

Construction Engineering
Construction engineers are responsible for designing, planning, and constructing not only buildings, but other types of important infrastructure too. As such, they can find themselves working in a very wide and generalised range of areas, without committing to any one field of specialisation in particular. The duties a construction engineer performs may sometimes overlap with the duties performed in other engineering specialisations – as evidenced by some of the other engineering vocations listed here

Those who work in this field will typically have at the minimum a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or construction engineering. You will also find they’ll usually have additional certifications too, such as Project Management Professional, Certified Construction Manager, Professional Engineers License, Construction Health and Safety Technician, or Certified Professional Constructor, amongst others

Construction Engineer Duties

Applies environmental, geotechnical, hydraulic, and structural engineering knowledge in the planning and development of construction projects

Advises on the use of construction materials and coordinates the transportation of supplies and equipment

Budgets and provides cost estimations, coordinates scheduling and planning, and conducts risk management and safety evaluations

Salary £27,594 – £48,221, depending on the employer and years of experience

Earthquake Engineering
Earthquake engineers specialise in constructing not only earthquake resistant buildings, but also other types of structures that are able to withstand the effects of earthquakes and seismic activity too. They also specialise in modifying pre-existing buildings and structures for the same effect

Those who work in this field will typically have at a minimum a bachelor’s degree in a field like civil or structural engineering. You will also find they’ll normally hold additional certifications too, such as Structural Engineering Certifications, Seismic Design Certifications, and Earthquake Risk Assessment and Mitigation Certifications

Earthquake Engineer Duties

Designs, builds, and maintains structures capable of standing up to earthquake exposure

Adheres to building codes and compliance regulations. Performs structural retrofitting of buildings to make them more resilient to earthquakes and tremors

Researches and develops seismic-resistant technologies

Conducts seismic hazard assessments by analysing historical seismic data, geological conditions, fault lines, and other factors that influence earthquake activity

Salary £28.992 – £47,983, depending on the employer and years of experience

Environmental Engineering
Environmental engineers attempt to address environmental challenges through the use of sound engineering principles. In this capacity, they will apply their expertise by assessing, managing, and mitigating the impact of industrial activity using a range of advanced engineering techniques including pollution control, water resource management, and air quality control, and will both advise and implement these and other green technologies in ways that help sustain and protect the local ecology and environment

Those who work in this field will typically have at a minimum a bachelor’s degree in a field like environmental engineering, civil engineering, or environmental science. They will also oftentimes hold additional certifications such as the Project Management Professional Certification, the Certified Hazardous Materials Manager, the Certified Floodplain Manager, and the Certified Environmental Professional, amongst others

Environmental Engineering Duties

Designs and facilities infrastructure for the treatment of chemical, thermal, biological, and household waste, including facilities like treatment plants and stormwater management systems

Assesses and implements technologies for recycling and air purification

Performs environmental risk assessments

Advises agencies and organizations on environmental compliance issues, may also assist government agencies with the development of policies in this area too

May work on projects relating to renewable energy and help design technologies relating to the same. Promotes sustainable practices pertaining to green technologies, climate change mitigation, and ecosystem conservation

Salary £28,900 – £46,238, depending on the employer and years of experience

Forensic Engineering
Forensic engineering is a branch of engineering concerned with the causes of failures connected to accidents and industrial incidents that may occur due to deficiencies in engineering structures, systems, or components. In this capacity, a forensic engineer uses their expertise to assess damage, evaluate evidence, and determine liability where legal proceedings or insurance claims are concerned

Although a formal qualification is not necessarily a prerequisite for performing in this role, most forensic engineers will hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in an engineering discipline relevant to the industry they operate in such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or structural engineering, etc. On top of this, they will also oftentimes be required to hold additional certifications such as a Certified Forensic Engineer, Certified Professional Engineer in Forensic Engineering, or Certified Vehicle Accident Reconstructionist, in order to work in the forensic engineering profession

Forensic Engineering Duties

Employs their expertise to investigate the failure of materials, products, machinery, or components, in circumstances where this has led to personal injury or property damage

Assists with resolving patent and intellectual property claims

Performs data collection and analysis duties

Investigates causes of failure with a view to improving processes and performance

Conduct tests, experiments, and simulations to replicate conditions reported in incidents

Provides expert opinions, reports, and presentations, and may assist in legal proceedings, arbitration, or mediation in this capacity

Core duties also involve continuous improvement and professional development, and forensic engineers will stay up to date through training and education with the latest advances in engineering, technology, and forensic science techniques

Salary £36,488 – £84,114, depending on the employer and years of experience

Geotechnical Engineering
Geotechnical engineers are involved in the planning and design of various types of infrastructure projects. In their capacity as geotechnical engineers, they are responsible for assessing various aspects of the ground conditions for planned construction sites, and will evaluate factors like soil, rock, and groundwater content. In doing so, they are able to advise other engineers, as well others involved in construction projects like stakeholders and senior level management personnel on the viability of construction projects based on their geographical suitability

Those who work in this field will typically have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with a focus on geotechnical engineering, or a bachelor’s degree specifically related to geotechnical engineering itself. They will oftentimes hold additional certifications too, like a Certified Engineering Geologist, Certified Soil Scientist, or Project Management Professional, to name but a few

Geotechnical Engineering Duties

Specialises in soil, rock, and groundwater analysis, with a view to assessing and designing foundations for a wide range of structures and infrastructure

Selects the appropriate foundation types for the construction project in question, deep/ shallow/ etc…

Assesses subsurface conditions and recommends ground improvement techniques such as soil stabilization, compaction, grouting, soil reinforcement, etc, as required

Performs site investigations

May undertake field and laboratory work to test the properties of soil and rock samples

Provides engineering recommendations and design solutions, ensuring that the safety and performance of construction projects is maintained

Monitors construction activities, conducts field inspections, and performs quality control tests to ensure the materials used in the construction conform to the specified recommendations

Provides technical support to construction teams, ensuring that geotechnical recommendations are implemented correctly

Salary £38,593 – £57,881, depending on the employer and years of experience

Highway Engineering
A highway engineer plans and designs pavements, roads, highways, intersections, interchanges, and other road related infrastructure like roadway signage, and oversees the construction and of implementation of them

In this role they will utilise principles related to traffic engineering, analysing factors such as traffic flow and congestion, taking these into consideration when planning in control measures such as road signs and pavement markings

Those who work in this field will typically have a bachelor’s degree in a field like civil or transportation engineering. They will oftentimes have additional certifications too, like a Traffic Engineering Professional Certification, a Professional Traffic Operations Engineer Certification, Certified Transportation Professional Certification, or Project Management Professional Certification, amongst others

Highway Engineering Duties

Assesses roadways, pavements, bridges, overpasses, and underpasses, to ensure their structural integrity

Implements maintenance plans to help extend the service life of highway related infrastructure

Develops plans for managing road and highway network assets

Is responsible for acquiring land and rights-of-way for highways and other road related infrastructure projects

Collaborates with other engineers, architects, and government agencies to ensure road and highway infrastructure projects are delivered on time and within budget

Salary £39,093 – £59,440, depending on the employer and years of experience

Hydraulic Engineering
Hydraulic engineers deal with engineering challenges concerning water related infrastructure, including the design, construction, and maintenance of structures, equipment, and apparatus used to manage and contain water based resources

Those who work in this field will usually at the minimum have a bachelor’s degree in a field like civil engineering, environmental engineering, or water resources engineering. They will also oftentimes hold additional certifications too, such as a Certified Stormwater Manager, Certified Floodplain Manager, Certified Floodplain Surveyor, Certified Water Resources Professional, or a Certified Hydrologic Technician, amongst others

Hydraulic Engineering Duties

Plans, designs, and maintains water-related infrastructure and systems such as pipelines, drainage systems, canals, dams, reservoirs, hydraulic structures, and other water supply networks. Also designs other water related infrastructure like stormwater management systems, levees, floodwalls, and flood control channels

Analyses the flow of water in water systems and water distribution networks to evaluate hydraulic performance

Uses their expertise to address challenges such as flooding, erosion, water supply, and environmental protection issues

Optimizes water management using sophisticated modelling software and numerical simulations

Studies sediment patterns in estuaries, rivers, and coastal areas to develop erosion control measures

Assesses flood impacts and performs flood risk assessments

Develops strategies for sustainable water management and allocation

Collects and analyses hydrological data to estimate flood flows, peak discharges, and precipitation patterns, and also uses advanced software to model rainfall-runoff processes, runoff behaviour, and watershed characteristics

Helps manage water resources and assesses the environmental impacts of water-related projects on aquatic habitats, wildlife, and water quality, developing strategies to minimize adverse effects on them

Salary £28,110 – £48,029, depending on the employer and years of experience

Municipal Engineer
Municipal engineers specialize in the construction and management of infrastructure and public works projects within urban areas and municipalities

Those who work in this field will typically at a minimum have a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or a related field such as construction or structural engineering. They will also sometimes hold additional certifications too, such as Certified Floodplain Manager, Professional Traffic Operations Engineer, or Certified Geographic Information Systems Professional, amongst others

Municipal Engineer Duties

Specializes in the construction and management of infrastructure and public works projects within urban areas and municipalities

Analyses population growth trends, land use patterns, zoning regulations, and environmental factors to plan for current and future needs as pertains to a wide range of infrastructure needs including transportation, water supply, waste management, and other essential services

Analyses traffic flow, congestion patterns, and accessibility factors, using this information when planning future transport infrastructure projects

Plans waste collection routes, transfer stations, recycling facilities, and landfill sites, with a view to minimizing environmental impact

Conducts assessments on infrastructure assets and oversees maintenance activities on things like roads, bridges, water mains, sewer lines, and stormwater facilities, etc

May also design water supply systems to deliver safe and reliable drinking water to urban residents and businesses. Assesses water demand and availability and plans for distribution network capacity accordingly

Practices environmental protection and sustainability from the conception of infrastructure projects all the way through to their completion

Salary £26,580 – £62,694, depending on the employer and years of experience

Railway Maintenance Engineer – Overhead Line Technician
Overhead Line Technicians are directly responsible for the maintenance and repair of overhead apparatus on railway lines, and as such, helps to enable the safe and efficient operation of trains along the railway network

While a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or similarly related fields is highly beneficial, it is not always required, and for those looking for a career in railway maintenance, a high school diploma or suitably high enough grades in areas like English, Engineering, Mathematics, or Science, can sometimes be enough to get you into an entry level role, apprenticeship, or into the other types of training programs sometimes run by rail operators that can lead into full time employment upon their successful completion

Additional certifications like the Journeyman Lineman Certification, Tower Climbing and Rescue Training, or First Aid and CPR Certifications – can be obtained directly either through the employer, or through the various other colleges and independent training providers that offer them to enhance employability prospects

Overhead Line Technician Duties

Regularly inspects OLE cables, checking tensioning and alignment, and adjusting these where necessary

Performs tests to assess the condition and performance of overhead line components

Accesses OLE apparatus using gantries and other specialised equipment

Maintains, repairs, and replaces OLE components as required

Diagnoses electrical and mechanical problems with overhead line equipment

Modifies, installs, or upgrades components in rail line systems as required

May be required to respond quickly to emergency service disruptions and implement contingency plans or temporary repairs to minimize service interruptions

Maintains accurate records of inspections, maintenance activities, repairs, and tests

Is familiar with all safety and regulatory requirements regarding electrical work and working at heights and will follow these accordingly

Salary £22,573 – £43,588, depending on the employer and years of experience

Railway Maintenance Engineering Signalling Technician
Signalling technicians are responsible for the maintenance, inspection, and repair of signalling equipment along railway lines. In this capacity, they ensure the reliable operation of trains by helping to control and direct their safe and efficient movement along the rail network

While a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or other types of electronics certifications can be highly beneficial, they are not necessarily required, and for those looking for a career in railway maintenance, a high school diploma or suitably high enough grades in areas like English, Engineering, Mathematics, or Science, can sometimes be enough to get you into an entry level role, apprenticeship, or into the other types of training programs sometimes run by rail operators that can lead into full time employment upon their successful completion

Additional types of certifications like a Railway Signalling Systems Certification, Electronics Technician Certification, or a Signal Maintainer Certification – can be obtained directly either through the employer, or through the various other colleges and independent training providers that offer them to enhance employability prospects

Railway Maintenance Engineering Signalling Technician Duties

Conducts regular inspections of signalling equipment such as the crossing gates, interlockings, signals, switches, and track circuits

Uses specialised equipment and software to analyse signalling data and to test and diagnose equipment

Performs general maintenance like cleaning and lubricating components

Diagnoses electrical and mechanical problems with signalling equipment

Configures and updates software, firmware, and databases as required

Is responsible for checking and maintaining the Automatic Warning Systems (AWS) and Train Protection Warning Systems (TPWS)

Is responsible for familiarizing themselves with the routes for train services so they know when to switch the rails to divert and change trains onto different tracks

Continuously improves by updating their knowledge through training courses, keeping themselves updated on the latest specialised tools and equipment

Maintains accurate records of all inspections, maintenance activities, repairs, and tests

Is familiar with all safety and regulatory requirements regarding electrical work and working at heights and follows these accordingly

Salary £31,683 – £44,977, depending on the employer and years of experience

Railway Maintenance Engineering Telecoms Technician
Railway Maintenance Engineering Telecoms Technicians, (also sometimes referred to as Railway Telecom Technicians or Railway Communication Technicians) are responsible for maintaining and repairing the equipment used in telecommunications systems in railway operations. In this capacity, amongst other things, they help to ensure successful communication is maintained between trains and the control centres that oversee their movement along the railway system itself

While a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, telecommunications, or other types of related certifications can be highly beneficial, they are not necessarily required, and for those looking for a career in railway maintenance, a high school diploma or suitably high enough grades in areas like English, Engineering, Mathematics, or Science, can sometimes be enough to get you into an entry level role, apprenticeship, or into the other types of training programs sometimes run by rail operators that can lead into full time employment upon their successful completion

Additional types of certifications like a Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist, Certified Wireless Network Administrator, or a Fibre Optic Association Certification – can be obtained directly either through the employer, or through the various other colleges or independent training providers that offer them to enhance employability prospects

Railway Maintenance Engineering Telecoms Duties

Is responsible for performing routine tests and maintenance on the rail computer and telephone network which includes the cab secure radio system, customer information systems, CCTV, public address systems, telephone systems (such as the ones found at level crossings), as well as any and all other rail network communication modes

Installs, programs, and configures telecommunications equipment such as antennas, radios, switches, routers, switches, telephony systems, and communication networks, etc

Uses specialized equipment, diagnostic tools, and software to test and optimize telecommunications equipment, assessing performance and verifying signal quality

Diagnoses and repairs faults and identifies performance issues

Protects telecommunications systems from cyber threats and unauthorized access by implementing and maintaining security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and access control systems

Is responsible for building and maintaining fibre optic Infrastructure by installing, splicing, and testing the fibre optic cables used along railway networks

Salary £26,394 – £51,993, depending on the employer and years of experience

Railway Systems Engineering
Railway Systems Engineers play an integral part in designing and implementing the railway tracks, stations, and terminals that comprise the railway network itself. Their duties include maintaining, repairing, and optimizing this network, thereby ensuring the reliable operation of trains and services along the entirety of the network itself

A bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or civil engineering is usually required for those looking to work in a railway systems engineering role. Oftentimes they will also be required to hold or obtain additional certifications such as a Project Management Professional Certification, Association of American Railroads Certification, International Council on Systems Engineering Certification, Railway Systems Engineering and Integration Certification, or a Certified Railway Signal Engineer

Railway Systems Engineer Duties

Designs and oversees the construction of railway tracks, railway stations, and railway terminals

Is responsible for the design and implementation of signalling systems and train control systems, including the installation of signalling systems, track circuits, interlockings, and communications equipment along railway lines

Uses sophisticated computer design software to help them perform their duties more effectively

Manages railway electrification systems, and performs safety and risk management assessments

Salary £27,591 – £48,882, depending on the employer and years of experience

Railway Maintenance Track Engineering Technician
Railway Maintenance Track Engineering Technicians are responsible for ensuring safe transit along the railway network. Their duties revolve around constructing, inspecting, maintaining, and repairing the rail tracks that make up the transportation system as a whole

For those looking for a career in this field, a high school diploma or suitably high grades in areas like mathematics or physics are highly beneficial, as are additional certifications or vocational training in areas such as mechanical engineering and construction related fields. Additional certifications such as a Track Safety Standards Certification, Railroad Track Inspection Certification, Railway Engineering Technician Certification, or a Rail Safety Worker Certification, are also highly beneficial too, and these can be obtained directly either through external training organisations, educational institutions such as colleges, or through other types of training programs that are sometimes run by rail operators that can lead into full time employment upon their successful completion

Railway Maintenance Track Engineering Technician Duties

Inspects rail tracks, sleepers, ballast, switches, and crossings, and makes repairs as required. Is also responsible for ensuring that railway tracks are properly aligned

Uses techniques such as welding and grinding to repair rail tracks, and installs essential components like sleepers and fasteners as required

Maintains safe and feasible track conditions by clearing foliage and ensuring tracks are obstacle free

Performs tamping, levelling, and other routine maintenance tasks as required

Performs repairs and modifications on existing tracks and railway infrastructure using specialized welding equipment

Assists with site surveys

Assists with the construction and installation of new railway tracks, track bedding, sidings, turnouts, and crossovers. etc

Operates track maintenance equipment such as track tampers, ballast regulators, and track inspection vehicles, as well as other specialised equipment to assist in track maintenance as required

Maintains accurate records of all inspections, maintenance activities, repairs, and tests, etc

Salary £29,312 – £46,995, depending on the employer and years of experience

Structural Engineering
Engineering is a branch that encompasses many different types of fields and specialisations. It revolves heavily around the areas of design, analysis, materials selection, code compliance, and structural health monitoring, all of which are fundamental when it comes to the safe and efficient design of buildings and other structures. As a discipline, this ensures that things like buildings and other structures are not only safe and structurally stable, but that they are viable and cost effective to build too

Structural engineers play a vital role where any type of construction is concerned. They evaluate and analyse the loads and forces acting on structures under construction, including dead loads (the permanent weight of the structure), live loads (temporary loads such as occupancy, furniture, equipment, etc), the capacity of structural elements involved such as beams, columns, slabs, walls, and foundations, the properties of the materials used in that structure’s construction, as well as numerous other safety criteria that are involved in the building of safe and functional structures

As a field, structural engineering is applied throughout several different specialisations within the engineering profession today, including all of the roles we have explored within this section, including

and more

Those who work as structural engineers will, at the minimum, usually have a bachelor’s degree in a field like civil engineering, environmental engineering, or water resources engineering, although master’s degrees are sometimes preferred for certain types of structural engineering roles. Oftentimes structural engineers will hold additional certifications too, such as a Structural Engineering Board Certification, Concrete Institute Certification, or International Code Council Certification, amongst others

Structural Engineering Duties

Ensures that structural safety and stability is achieved in the design of buildings and structures

Employs mathematical calculations when determining mass and dimensions in structural planning

Is responsible for selecting the correct building materials for the job in question

Uses advanced software such as CAD, to simulate the behaviour of materials and structures under different loads and conditions

Performs risk assessments, site inspections, and quality assurance related duties to ensure that plans are being adhered to accordingly and that all materials used are fit for purpose and meet the required specifications

Collaborates closely with engineers and professionals from other relevant fields, as well as with contractors, clients, and stakeholders, to ensure that project outcomes are met on time and within budget

Continuous improvement is also a key part of a structural engineers role, and those working in this field must ensure they stay up to date with the latest advancements in structural engineering practices and technology

Salary £29,005 – £51,584, depending on the employer and years of experience

Traffic Engineering
Traffic engineers are responsible for managing and planning transportation systems, and will conduct their duties with a view to facilitating the most efficient modes of traffic movement within a given area or population centre as possible. As such, they play a key role when it comes to the implementation of transportation infrastructure, and although the duties they perform can vary drastically depending on their exact nature of specialization, safety and efficiency is always at the forefront of any role where traffic engineering is concerned

Those who work in this field will usually have a bachelor’s degree in fields like civil engineering, transportation engineering, or urban planning. They will sometimes hold additional certifications too, such as an International Association of Transportation Regulators Certification, a Certified Road Safety Professional, a Certified Transportation Planner, Professional Traffic Operations Engineer, or Professional in Transportation Operations and Management, amongst others

Traffic Engineering Duties

Analyses traffic volume, vehicle speed zones, traffic signal points, and roadway geometry with a view to enhancing safety, optimizing traffic flow, and reducing congestion

Designs traffic signal systems, signal timing plans, phasing, and coordination of traffic management systems

Is responsible for planning and designing roadway layouts – including hard shoulders, lanes, medians, and pavement markings

Plans the location and implementation of pedestrian crossings, variable message signs, traffic signals, traffic monitoring systems, traffic cameras, and traffic calming measures

Forecasts travel volume, using travel demand modelling as a means to facilitate long-term infrastructure planning. Also analyses high-risk locations through accident statistics and factors these into infrastructure planning too

Develops parking policies and parking regulations to optimize space and meet demand

Is responsible for collaborating with other transportation agencies and businesses with a view to helping integrate transportation services into existing transportation networks and transit hubs

Liaises with government agencies and other external stakeholders, gathering input and using feedback as a means to progress transportation initiatives

Salary £28,572 – £43,677, depending on the employer and years of experience

Water Resources Engineer
Water resources engineers are concerned with water related infrastructure. As such, they will help design and implement infrastructure and projects related to the management of water systems such as tunnel and drainage systems, dams, water supply systems, and more…

Those who work in this field will usually at a minimum hold a bachelor’s degree in a field like civil engineering, environmental engineering, or water resources engineering. They will oftentimes hold additional certifications too such as a Certified Floodplain Manager, Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control, Certified Professional in Stormwater Quality, or a Project Management Professional Certification, amongst others

Water Resources Engineer Duties

Designs and implements systems related to water related infrastructure, such as water treatment plants, wastewater collection facilities, treatment and disposal systems, and distribution networks in the form of tunnels, pipes, and storage facilities etc

Collects and manages water by assessing water availability, rainfall patterns, surface runoff, and groundwater recharge over a given area using techniques like hydrological analysis

Uses numerical modelling and statistical analysis techniques to estimate streamflow, flood risk, and drought frequency

Develops water supply strategies based on current and future projected demands and uses this to optimize water allocation and distribution

Performs aquifer testing and conducts geophysical surveys to assess groundwater dynamics, recharge rates, and groundwater-surface water interactions

Works with advanced computer software, using statistics and modelling to simulate water behaviour

Performs field and laboratory testing to test water for factors such as pH, dissolved oxygen, nutrients, contaminants, and pathogens

Performs public outreach duties and is responsible for helping to develop water conservation programs

Salary £27,320- £45,700, depending on the employer and years of experience

There are other inter-related disciplines that fall within the scope of civil engineering too, and these include the following:

Transportation Engineering

Transportation engineering focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of transportation systems and their related infrastructure. As a discipline, it not only concerns facilities and transportation infrastructure like canals, roads, railways, ports, airports, and mass transit systems, but is also concerned with areas like public transit and traffic engineering, which is based around the management of traffic flow and safety on roadways.
Highway Engineering, Traffic Engineering, and Railway Engineering, are all disciplines that would fall under the bracket of transportation engineering

Railway Engineering

This vocation of engineering is centred around the design and construction of railway track lines, as well as around the construction of railway stations and terminals. Those involved in this branch of engineering may also be responsible for the design and implementation of signalling systems and train control networks, including the installation of signalling apparatus, track circuits, interlockings, and communications equipment along railway lines. They will also be responsible for the construction of buildings and other infrastructure necessary for the facilitation of rail services including rail bridges, viaducts, tunnels, and underground structures too

Railway Maintenance Track Engineering Technician, Railway Systems Engineer, Railway Maintenance Engineering Telecoms Technician, and Railway Maintenance Engineer (Overhead Line Technician), are all roles that would fall under the bracket of railway engineering

Aviation Engineering

This is a branch of engineering concerned with the design, construction, and maintenance of aircraft and aviation related equipment and infrastructure. As such, some of the duties involved in this branch will also fall under the civil engineering classification in that the airports (including the runways, taxiways, aprons, terminals) and air transportation facilities will utilise expertise from branches various disciplines with the civil engineering field

As an engineering discipline, aviation engineering focuses on the design, maintenance, and management of aircraft and aviation-related systems and infrastructure. It encompasses aircraft design, avionics systems, air traffic management, airport operations, as well as maintenance, repair, and servicing, on top of the construction of aviation related infrastructure. While there is some overlap with fields such as civil engineering, the majority of the duties aviation engineers perform mainly revolve around service, maintenance, and repair. As such, they will perform inspections, troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues, and conduct maintenance in line with regulatory and industry requirements

Aviation engineering deals with areas including:

Aviation engineering is often compared to aeronautical engineering because both disciplines are concerned with aspects of aircraft and aerospace technology, however, where aeronautical engineering focuses on the design of aircraft and spacecraft, aviation engineering centres more around the maintenance and servicing of aircraft and aviation systems, although there are some aspects of aviation engineering that also digress further into aircraft operations and aircraft infrastructure too