Civil / Structural Engineering
Civil engineers are expert in the planning, design, construction and maintenance of public infrastructure such as buildings, bridges, roads, harbours, dams and water supply functions. They have an aptitude for mathematics and physics and a desire to meet environmental and technological challenges.
In the minerals industry Civil/Structural Engineers may take on the following tasks:
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Perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures and facilities;
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Analyse survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, aerial photography, and other topographical or geologic data to plan projects;
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Plan and design transportation or hydraulic systems and structures, following construction and government standards, using design software and drawing tools;
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Direct construction, operations, and maintenance activities at project site;
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Direct or participate in surveying to lay out installations and establish reference points, grades, and elevations to guide construction;
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Conduct studies of traffic patterns or environmental conditions to identify engineering problems and assess the potential impact of projects;
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Prepare or present public reports, such as bid proposals, deeds, environmental impact statements, and property and right-of-way descriptions;
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Provide technical advice regarding design, construction, or program modifications and structural repairs to industrial and managerial personnel;
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Test soils and materials to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations, concrete, asphalt, or steel;
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Inspect project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design specifications and safety or sanitation standards, and
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Compute load and grade requirements, water flow rates, and material stress factors to determine design specifications.
Money
Project Manager: $140,000 – $220,000
Civil/Structural Engineer: $85,000 – $140,000
Site Engineer: $75,000 – $130,000
Source: www.hays.com.au (July 2008)
Pathways
Entry to this occupation is generally through bachelor degree or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is also required. Areas of study include structural engineering, hydraulic engineering, transportation engineering, geomechanics, hydrology, construction and economics.
