What is a civil engineer

Civil engineers are conceptual thinkers and precise implementers. They are experts in designing, constructing, and maintaining the infrastructure that we use in our daily lives, from roads and bridges to tunnels and skyscrapers, and beyond.

Civil engineers, very similar to civil construction engineers and civil structural engineers, are involved in construction processes, ensuring that building projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. They are often responsible for managing the overall project, from the initial planning stages through to completion. This involves coordinating various contractors, suppliers and construction workers, and resources, monitoring progress, and adjusting the project plan as necessary.

In the role of civil engineer, a common responsibility includes the maintenance and repair of infrastructure projects, guaranteeing that they remain safe and functional. This may involve regular inspections, repairs, and upgrades to ensure that the infrastructure continues to meet the needs of a community.

Civil engineers furthermore play a crucial role in ensuring public safety, designing infrastructure projects that are resilient to natural disasters and other threats. They may develop evacuation plans, design structures to withstand earthquakes, and create flood protection systems to protect communities from severe weather events.

Today, civil engineers are increasingly focused on developing infrastructure projects that are environmentally sustainable, taking into account factors such as energy efficiency, resource conservation, and waste reduction. They may use advanced technologies such as green building materials and renewable energy systems to create sustainable infrastructure.

Civil engineers are most often needed in sectors where large-scale construction happens, such as in the building industry. Civil engineers help build airports, tunnels, plants, dams, and many types of massive structures. Civil structural engineers can also work in the oil and gas industry on offshore oil rigs. Next to building structures, they are also regularly involved in the safe demolition of infrastructure.

Civil engineers may specialize in different areas of civil engineering, such as structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, water resources engineering, and environmental engineering.

Apply now for a job as a Civil engineer! 

Project Engineer

Location: Darwin

Branche: Infrastructure

Expertise: HR & Recruiting

Experience: 0 years

Support delivery of civil subdivision projects across Darwin Coordinate site activities, technical documentation, and reporting Work closely with crews, subcontractors, and stakeholders to keep projects on track Ensure safety, quality, and compliance standards are met throughout the build

Senior Project Engineer

Location: Perth

Branche: Infrastructure

Expertise: HR & Recruiting

Experience: 2 years

Own the delivery of project scope to a high standard, ensuring work is completed on time and within budget. Offer and seek out technical input across design, construction, scheduling changes, and structural solutions. Drive strong project outcomes under pressure, taking initiative to resolve challenges quickly and effectively. Make commercially sound decisions that balance cost control with profitability and long-term value. Play a key role in the financial and operational success of the broader project team. Build trusted client relationships through clear communication and proactive collaboration. Ensure all deliverables align with client expectations, budget constraints, contract terms, and quality benchmarks. Mentor and support team members, contributing to a high-performing, collaborative project environment. Oversee subcontractor compliance with company policies, procedures, and HSEQ standards. Champion a safe work culture, ensuring all activities meet HSEQ requirements and project safety plans.

Project Engineer

Location: Mackay

Branche: Infrastructure

Expertise: HR & Recruiting

Experience: 2 years

Project Coordination & Delivery Oversee day-to-day site operations and ensure alignment with project timelines and budgets Coordinate subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants to maintain smooth workflow Monitor progress and proactively resolve issues to avoid delays Technical Oversight Interpret engineering drawings and specifications to guide construction activities Ensure compliance with relevant standards, codes, and council requirements Assist in the preparation of construction methodologies and sequencing plans Stakeholder Engagement Liaise with clients, council representatives, and internal teams to ensure expectations are met Attend site meetings and provide regular updates on progress and challenges Foster strong relationships with local authorities and community stakeholders Quality, Safety & Environmental Compliance Implement and monitor quality assurance procedures Uphold safety standards and promote a culture of zero harm Ensure environmental controls are in place and adhered to Reporting & Documentation Maintain accurate records of site activities, variations, and progress reports Support the Project Manager with forecasting, procurement, and cost tracking Contribute to post-project reviews and continuous improvement initiatives

Senior Project Engineer - SURF

Location: Perth

Branche: Conventional Energy

Expertise: Planning & Testing

Experience: 2 years

Provide engineering leadership across project planning, offshore/site work, tender prep, and execution. Mentor and guide Project & Graduate Engineers, assigning tasks, monitoring progress, and fostering growth. Define and forecast manning/resourcing needs; contribute to cost estimates, engineering task definitions, and CTRs. Generate and review technical documentation - including calculations, specifications, procedures, layouts, schematics, and equipment lists. Lead HAZID workshops; ensure engineering outputs meet MMA and client technical, quality, safety, and regulatory standards. Work with CAD designers across Perth and Singapore; manage external engineering partnerships. Support offshore execution phases with technical oversight and ensure adherence to HSEQ guidelines. Drive innovation-promote improvement in products, services, processes, and support new development opportunities. Handle administrative duties: timesheets, PRs, POs, document control.

Site Engineer

Location: Brisbane

Branche: Infrastructure

Expertise: Controlling

Experience: 1 years

As a Site Engineer, you'll be instrumental in supporting the successful delivery of TMR works, focusing on planning, coordination, and execution. You'll work closely with project managers, supervisors, subcontractors, and consultants to ensure all technical, contractual, and quality aspects of the project are met. Assist with the day-to-day site operations and ensure project milestones are achieved Interpret and apply TMR specifications, drawings, and standards Monitor subcontractor performance and ensure compliance with quality, safety, and environmental requirements Coordinate material procurement, deliveries, and site logistics Assist with preparation of ITPs, quality documentation, and as-builts Provide accurate progress reporting and support cost control efforts Support project engineers and supervisors to resolve technical issues

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Common civil engineer responsibilities 

A civil engineer is responsible for performing a range of critical engineering tasks related to infrastructure. Responsibilities may include:

  • Designing and supervising the construction of roads, bridges, buildings, airports, and other types of infrastructure;

  • Analyzing reports from surveys, maps, and other data sources to plan projects well;

  • Determining the estimated costs of materials, labor, and equipment required for construction projects;

  • Ensuring that projects are completed on time and within budget;

  • Inspecting construction sites to monitor progress and ensure compliance with building and safety codes;

  • Collaborating with architects, construction managers, and other professionals to ensure that projects are completed to specifications;

  • Using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create plans and blueprints;

  • Testing and evaluating materials used in construction projects;

  • Developing and implementing quality control procedures to ensure that projects meet industry standards;

  • Mentoring civil engineering colleagues who are keen to develop their engineering knowledge;

  • Traveling to construction sites to guide and observe building.

Qualifications for civil engineers 

Civil engineers should have at least a Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or a related field. In some cases, a Master's degree or higher may be required for more advanced positions, particularly in research or academia. In addition to a degree, civil engineers need to be licensed in order to practice. Licensing requirements vary by country, but typically involve passing an exam and meeting other criteria, such as having a certain amount of work experience.

Additional supporting skills and experience include:

  • 2-5+ years of civil engineering experience;

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills;

  • Strong math skills, including proficiency in calculus, trigonometry, and statistics;

  • Proficiency in using diverse computer software, including the latest design, modeling, and calculation software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Matlab/LabView, or similar;

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills;

  • Attention to detail and ability to work with precision;

  • Understanding of and adherence to safety and environmental regulations;

  • Ability to work in a team and collaborate with other professionals, such as architects and construction managers;

  • Familiarity with project management principles and software;

  • Willingness to continually learn and stay up-to-date on new technologies and industry developments.