Civil engineering technologists and technicians (NOC 2231)

Civil engineering technologists:

• develop engineering designs and drawings from preliminary concepts and sketches
• prepare construction specifications, cost and material estimates, project schedules and reports
• supervise or conduct field surveys, inspections or technical investigations of topography, soils, drainage and water supply systems, road and highway systems, buildings and structures to provide data for engineering projects
• conduct or supervise inspection and testing of construction materials, and may supervise, monitor and inspect construction projects and provide project negotiation and facilitation

Civil engineering technicians:

• Assist in developing engineering specifications and drawings
• Participate in field surveys, inspections or technical investigations of topography, soils, drainage and water supply systems, road and highway systems, buildings and structures to provide data for engineering projects
• Perform other technical functions in support of civil engineering activities.

The majority of civil engineering technologists and technicians work regular hours in laboratories, offices and industrial plants and working conditions may include a combination of indoor and outdoor work.

Outdoor work includes conducting field inspections or investigating topography, soil, drainage and water supply systems, road and highway systems, or buildings and structures. Individuals may also work from an office where they incorporate field findings into their designs or in virtual teams communicating with telephone conference calls or videoconferencing. Opportunities for international work may be available for some workers.

Technological advances in surveying, environmental monitoring, data management and civil design has allowed for work to be completed more quickly than in the past. Workers may be exposed to hazards from equipment, chemicals or toxic materials when performing field work.

Expansion in construction and municipal and resource based infrastructure drives the demand for civil technologists and technicians. As such, areas of urban growth or industrial activity will likely see the most demand for these occupations in upcoming years. Growth in research and development areas may also result in increased employment opportunities.

More of the new opportunities for qualified civil technologists and technicians are opening in the private sector. However, upcoming retirements will increase demand for new technologists and technicians in both private industry and government.

While most civil technology jobs are found in mid- to large-size cities, jobs in rural areas are available in government departments, transportation, and with consulting firms.

Sustained competitiveness in a knowledge-based global economy requires vigorous and ongoing commitment to scientific and technological innovation. For this reason, workers should keep abreast of developments within their area of expertise. The trend of green building construction, for example, will require workers in this occupation group to be familiar with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Green Building Rating System (LEED).

Periods of retraining and professional development are common, and those with updated skills and knowledge will have an advantage over others when competing for employment.