Structural Engineering: Career Path and Job Outlook
The word ‘structure’ refers to buildings. Footings, frameworks, bridges and even space frame, which can be formed from novel materials or composites. The structural engineering profession, thus, has a creative side to it, contributing significantly to the infrastructural industry and several residential and entertainment developments as well.
Structural engineer is a profession, which is concerned with planning, designing, constructing, inspecting and monitoring various kinds of structures, regardless of whether they are permanent or temporary. Maintenance and rehabilitation of these structures is also considered, along with their technical, economical, social and aesthetic aspects.
Several engineering schools in Australia offer a four year program for acquiring a structural engineering degree.
What are you expected to do?
In a typical structural engineering job, you will be expected to determine strength, prepare structural drawings and figure out the extent to which a frame can avoid a collapse. You’ll consider the manner in which the structure has to be set up, and ensure that it would be able to withstand weather and other natural forces. You will also be researching and testing new materials and forms, and develop innovative solutions, aimed at making environment friendlier buildings.
Mostly, you will be involved with bridges and buildings, but in some cases, you will also have to work with tunnels, large tanks and mining structures.
If you gain specialization, then you can also work with aircraft design, shipbuilding and oil drilling frames.
Which professionals will you be working with?
A structural engineer works in a team, which comprises of builders, architects, and engineers from the chemical, electrical and mechanical fields. All of you collaborate and ensure that each and every component of the structure is safe and can perform the intended function.
Which skills do you require?
If you want to succeed as a structural engineer, you should be analytical and pay attention to details. You should have a creative edge and excellent communication skills.
How do you begin your job search?
Work on your resume before you start applying for a job, and make sure it contains no errors of any kind. Then start searching for online openings; GradAustralia is a good starting point that provides you access to several structural engineering graduate jobs. Become active on LinkedIn and reach out in your social network for references. Groom yourself, build your connections and follow up with hiring managers regularly.
How much can you earn?
The average salary for structure engineers is $69,580 AUD. If you are involved in construction or project management, you can earn higher figures. Experience is important, but its impact on your income is less when compared to other professions.
If your experience is less than 5 years, then your income annual income will be around $64,000 AUD, which includes overtime and bonuses. When you have spent about 5 to 10 years in the field, you can earn as much as $82,000, and at the height of your career, you earnings can be well above $110,000.
Generally, Perth and Brisbane offer the highest salaries to structural engineers.
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