What does a structural engineer do?
Structural engineering is a specialisation of civil engineering. A structural engineer uses their knowledge of mathematical concepts and physical laws to help create structurally sound buildings for clients. Their focus is on the suitability of materials used and the ground on which the building is to be erected, always with safety in mind.
Structural engineers typically start their work by inspecting a site, performing calculations and running analyses. Next, they create technical drawings or structural plans and write reports. Their job also involves supervising projects on building sites to ensure their plans are followed.
Structural engineer skills and qualifications
To succeed as a structural engineer, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in engineering design software are essential. Look for individuals who can interpret technical drawings, assess structural integrity and develop safe, efficient solutions. A relevant engineering degree, such as a Bachelor of Civil or Structural Engineering, along with professional registration with Engineers Australia, is typically required, complemented by practical experience in design, construction and project management.
A successful structural engineer should have the following skills and aptitudes:
- excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- mathematical aptitude and good at physics
- good IT skills
- an interest in buildings and their construction
- good technical drawing skills
- excellent organisational skills to handle different project stages.
Structural engineer experience requirements
Many companies require a structural engineer to have several years of work experience. Some university programs offer engineering students the opportunity to gain practical work experience alongside their studies. This work experience always has to be supervised and monitored by an experienced structural engineer.
Some states, like Queensland, require at least four years of work experience after a structural engineer has completed their degree before they can register as a practising engineer in the state. Again, it’s worth checking local requirements here, as they may differ from state to state.
Structural engineer education and training requirements
A four-year bachelor degree in civil engineering or in engineering with a major in civil engineering is a must, and postgraduate studies leading to a qualification as a professional engineer, such as a Master of Professional Engineering, are desirable and pursued by many structural engineers.
Registration is required in some jurisdictions: New South Wales, the Northern Territory, Queensland, Tasmania and Victoria currently require structural engineers to register in certain circumstances, but it’s always important to check government websites for up-to-date requirements in each state or territory.
In addition, Engineers Australia maintains a voluntary National Engineering Register that a structural engineer might want to register with. Although this is optional, it is highly recommended.
Structural engineer salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a structural engineer is $121,725 per year. Salary may vary depending on the employer, location and the candidate’s experience and qualifications.
Job description samples for similar positions
There are several roles that are similar to that of a structural engineer. Take a look to see if you need to hire one of these workers instead of a structural engineer for your site:
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