Structural Engineering as a Career Path

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Structural engineering course is a specialized branch of civil engineering discipline. Structural engineering career entails activities like interpretation, strategic preparation, designing and assessing the overall constructions of mega structures like bridges, multiplex buildings, highways, dams and so on. After pursuing such a course, aspirants have to learn the general fundamentals of structural analysis which simply indicates that they have to evaluate the strength, balance, durability and stability of different structures.

As structural engineering is a specialized course, it simply means that it specializes in the specific field. This profession may vary from bridge engineering to pipeline engineering and from building engineering to the creation of gigantic water structures like cruise or ships. The scope of engineering in India is probably high because of its evergreen nature and trend in the current scenario. Both private and government firms are running for the ideal one who can work efficiently under the pressure by strictly adhering to the guidelines. Nearly, in ever construction work we urge to have skilled engineers who can maintain quality over quantity. Majority of the contractors, builders and architects hire structural engineers.

Eligibility Criteria
Examination
Roles and Responsibilities
Finish your education
Create a portfolio.
Skills required for structural engineering

Structural engineering working professionals play a very crucial role as a team player while working and coordinating with other associated members like quantity surveyor, architects’ engineers, survey organizer and so on.

A structural engineer Is a specialist in building real structures that can endure pressure from the outside world. They are worried about making sure that each component of a structure, such as the beams, foundations, columns, and floors, is intact. They must ensure the security of several kinds of structures, including:

Buildings
Bridges
Tunnels
Towers
Dams
Transportation routes
Water treatment facilities

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They increase the structural stability of already-built structures. They might employ substances including concrete, steel, wood, brickwork, and polymers. A structural engineer normally needs to obtain certificates and approval before providing their engineering services to the general public since they are accountable for the safety of the public.

Eligibility Criteria

In reality, it is well-known fact that structural engineering is a branch of civil engineering, so students who want to choose a structural engineering career path in future have the opportunity to opt for Specialization of Civil Engineering at the Masters level. To be eligible for a Postgraduate program in structural engineering, it is necessary to carry an undergraduate degree in a subject. Civil Engineering undergraduate degree preferably with the minimum percentile of 60% at the college level.

Examination

GATE and TANCET are recognized as the two most prominent examinations when it comes to this field. Interested candidates who have a desire to choose structural engineering at PG level can definitely apply for it. In India majority of the well-renowned universities, colleges and technical universities do not consist of structural engineering courses at the undergraduate level. This course is only available as an integrated degree at the undergraduate level.

Integrated

BTech + MTech (Integrated)

Postgraduate

MTech
Post Graduate Diploma
Masters of Science in Civil Engineering
MSc

In India some universities provide part time and distance programmes in structural engineering for the students. However, it is essential to identify whether the course is UGC recognised or not before the students enrol themselves in the course.

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Future Job Prospects in India

Several revolutionary evolutions and explorations have normally created challenges for thembecause they have to offer services beyond the comprehension by maintaining pace with the upcoming changes. Advanced modernised worlds require modern days solutions to fix the problems. Through these practices only we can witness the immaculate changes to establish quality of life.

According to the hypothesis or tentative assumption it has been predicted that upcoming decades can be more intimidating and challenging for structural engineers. It will be complex but lucrative and rewards are also exceptionally high. Moreover, both private and public sectors are going to invest and work on new projects for developing immaculate and captivating infrastructures. So, after looking at these scenarios we can imagine that structural engineers have numerous job opportunities. But for implementing and creating strategies for tackling problems in the best way possible, structural engineers should be good at problem-solving. Good grasp on the concepts of mathematics and physics are plus. Soft skills like leadership and impeccable communication skills can make you an ideal one in your firm

Roles and Responsibilities

Here Is the list of some basic roles and responsibilities which are performed by the candidates

The profile is liable to conceptualize and create the designs models of structures with the support of software’s.
They are responsible for evaluating or examining the structure strength, durability, pressure, stress and reaction of the structures.
Their sole duty is to finalize the concrete materials that are appropriate for the building structure after determining it.
They look after the budget of the project and later they analyze the project.
They perform liaising part to represent their idea and concepts concisely to the construction contractors about the elevated infrastructure.
They have to constantly work on dynamic computer aided design technology in order to replicate the ideas practically.
Create architectural elements like bridges and buildings.
Utilize software for computer-aided design to produce structural models.
Count loads and pressures that the environment or people are putting on you.
Observe the rules for construction safety
Select the proper materials in accordance with the structural requirements.
Keep an eye on the task being done while supervising the staff
Create and distribute budgets
Monitor and update project progress
Work together with project managers and contractors
Creating architectural designs and figuring out how much weight and stress a structure can take
Calculating a building’s response to weather with computer-aided software securing the necessary permits for a building’s construction
Preparing construction cost estimates and choosing building components
Building construction oversight and project manager guidance
Collaborating to complete a project with other experts such as architects, engineers, and builders
Project management and contract management

ENTRANCE EXAM QUESTIONS

How to enter the structural engineering field

To become a structural engineer, you can do the following steps:

Finish your education

The minimum educational requirement for structural engineer positions is often a bachelor’s degree. Get a four-year degree in structural engineering, civil engineering, or a related subject by enrolling in a college or university. The following are some possible courses for this kind of programme:

Calculus

Geometry

Engineering mathematics

Physics

General chemistry

Probability and statistics

Mechanics of materials

Engineering hydraulics

Structural steel design

Structural analysis

Soil structure interaction

Theory of elasticity and plasticity

Structural dynamics

Earthquake engineering

Make sure the engineering programme you select has All India Council for Technical Education accreditation. This guarantees that your technical education is of the highest calibre and adheres to all applicable national criteria.

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Consider doing an engineering internship.

Before graduating from many engineering academic programmes, students must take an internship. An ideal way to learn more about the subject and decide if you want to pursue a career in structural engineering is to participate in an internship at a building company, engineering firm, or another location. Additionally, you might get to know and become friends with coworkers and managers, which can help you expand your professional network and open up doors to future career prospects.

Think about getting a postgraduate degree.

Candidates for structural engineering positions might need to have a master’s or higher degree, according to some employers. Think about getting a master’s in mechanical and structural engineering or a related discipline. You can improve your work prospects, raise your earning potential, extend your knowledge base, and make a good impression on future employers by completing a master’s or other postgraduate degree. More education and training experience often increase your competitiveness as a job prospect.

You might pursue one of the following particular concentrations at your academic institution:

Earthquake engineering
Fire engineering
Roof engineering
Tower engineering
Wind engineering

Create a portfolio.

Consider creating a portfolio or collection of all your best work as you gain knowledge, abilities, and experience. These might be any plans or initiatives you have worked on or accomplished that demonstrate your knowledge of structural engineering as well as your creativity and problem-solving abilities. Possessing a strong portfolio will help you demonstrate your abilities to potential employers

Acquire credentials

It is crucial that structural engineers obtain certifications that attest to their knowledge and abilities because they oversee constructions that affect the safety of the general public. The Institution of Engineers India offers the Professional Engineers certification (IEI). You must have a bachelor’s degree in engineering or technology, five or more years of relevant experience, and membership in a professional society in order to qualify for this. This acknowledges your degree of engineering proficiency and adherence to the code of ethics. The IEI also provides a certification for International Professional Engineers, among other things.

Submit a job application for structural engineers

Once you have established a strong professional foundation for yourself, look for available structural engineer opportunities. Determine the jobs that, in light of your experience and education, you are best suited for. After that, make sure your resume emphasises your best abilities and capabilities. Use a personalised cover letter and your most recent CV to apply for each position.

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Skills required for structural engineering

A few skills can help structural engineers be successful in their jobs. They work in an exciting, fast-paced career field. These are some necessary qualifications for this position:

Computer skills: Design and calculation software like AutoCAD and RISA are needed for structural engineer jobs. These experts are also proficient with spreadsheets, word processing programmes, and email.
Communication abilities: Structural engineers must deliver their designs and written reports to audiences. Additionally, they must communicate the status of the project to clients—audiences that might not be conversant with structural engineering jargon.
Analytical abilities: A structural engineer evaluates data and facts before drawing conclusions, particularly when fixing problematic structures. Maintaining the safety of the general public depends on having the ability to analyse information and identify solutions.
Organization: Structural engineers that possess strong organisational abilities can maintain track of project assignments, procedures, and deadlines. When working on various projects, they might also need to carefully separate and file material.
Detail-oriented: To maintain the stability of a structure, those in this position must pay close attention to both the big and little features of its design. Paying close attention to the details reduces errors and increases accuracy and safety.
Leadership: Project managers and other team leaders frequently make up this group of experts. A project manager’s duties include leading a team and making sure it completes a project in accordance with schedules and plans.
Problem-solving: Repairing damaged structures including bridges, tunnels, and buildings is the responsibility of structural engineers. They investigate and take into account societal demands when designing structural solutions.

Average structural engineering salary

A structural engineer typically makes $20,771 per month. But their pay may differ depending on their workplace, industry, years of experience, credentials, and other things. In general, structural engineers can bargain for a better income if they complete more study and have specialized certificates. They might also look into managerial positions, which can pay more.

Environment for structural engineering during work

Structural engineers may work in a range of settings, including engineering consulting organizations, government institutions, utility corporations, and construction enterprises. They frequently perform needed work both in an office setting and on project sites. The job of a structural engineer may require travel if the client’s projects are in another city. Job locations can range from urban to rural areas. These experts often work full time during regular business hours, though they might need to put in extra hours if their project has strict deadlines.