In a nutshell, structural engineers design structures for human use, such as houses or hospitals. It's also their responsibility to ensure that their structures will easily endure the environmental conditions they're exposed to.

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FAQs

FAQs

What does a Structural engineer do?

A Structural Engineer job description will typically include the below duties:

Design structures - such as a house, office building, hospital, bridge, ship, aircraft, or oil rig
Consider the different pressures, stresses and conditions that the components of a structure would need to withstand
Apply knowledge of the various building materials available in terms of strength and quality and identify which ones should be used
Identify where support appliances need to be applied
Investigate and survey the earth of building sites prior to work beginning
Communicate and coordinate with other stakeholders involved in the project, such as architects, landscape architects, engineers and environmental scientists
Organise and manage materials and equipment being delivered to the project construction site
Assist government inspections (when required)
Manage and supervise the onsite labour (when required)

How much does a Structural engineer get paid?

The average structural engineer salary is £22,000 to £28,000 per annum. After a few years of experience, a graduate can earn up to £40,000. Senior level professionals are generally paid between £40,000 to £70,000.

A Chartered Engineer will typically earn a salary that is somewhere within the higher region of the salary range mentioned above. This is a qualification that can be achieved during the first few years of working.

What qualifications does a Structural engineer need?

In order to qualify for graduate structural engineering jobs, you'll need a degree in civil or structural engineering. If your degree isn't related to this, consider studying for a master's degree (MSc) in structural engineering before you start your job search.

Once you're in employment, you'll have the option to work towards Chartered statuses - specifically the Associate Member and then the Chartered Member qualification with IStructE. Bear in mind that the degree (or related qualification) you hold must be accredited by IStructE, of which all accredited courses are listed on their website.

Once you've become an Associate Member, you can become a Chartered Member (MIStructE) if you have an accredited master's degree or equivalent. An accredited diploma will see you gain Technician Member (TIStructE) status.