Construction Engineering is a professional discipline that deals with the designing, planning, construction and management of infrastructures such as roads, tunnels, bridges, airports, railroads, facilities, buildings, dams, utilities and other projects. Construction engineering is similar to civil engineering, which also focuses on infrastructure design and development, but with more emphasis on managing the construction process on project sites. It is an important field because it ensures structures are safe, well-made and dependable. It also makes sure construction projects get finished by a set date and according to strict plans and building codes.
Construction engineers are involved in nearly every step of a construction project, from its design to its implementation. They manage building projects and maintenance, often being present to oversee workers and activities on-site. Projects and infrastructure that construction engineers might work on include:
- Roads and highways
- Bridges
- Tunnels
- Railroads
- Housing projects
- Airports
- Energy sources like dams
- Facilities such as wastewater treatment plants
- Utilities
- Drainage and sewage systems
- Public buildings such as hospitals and sports stadiums
The typical duties of a construction engineer include:
- Calculating the cost of inspections, testing, materials, equipment and labor to create a budget for each project
- Managing funds appropriately to stay within budget
- Using computer software and simulations to create project designs and 3D models
- Performing risk analysis
- Surveying potential construction sites and planning their layouts
- Preparing bids from contractors and managing the contracting firms they hire
- Choosing and acquiring materials and equipment
- Hiring and overseeing workers and setting their schedules
- Making sure projects follow environmental laws, government regulations and building codes
- Designing and overseeing the construction of temporary structures needed on-site
- Using engineering and business skills to solve any problems that might occur during construction
- Staying up-to-date on the latest technology, building laws and construction processes
Successful construction projects require a highly coordinated team effort. Builders and skilled trade’s people are required to lay brick, construct frames, install plumbing and electrical systems and ensure completion of a long list of other elements. With a large-scale construction project, construction engineers play an essential role in designing and implementing complicated building plans. They may also oversee the development or maintenance of critical infrastructure, ranging from roads and bridges to dams and water supplies.
