Civil engineering technician
Help to survey sites and draw technical designs for major construction projects. Organise the work and materials for the project and check its progress.
About the job
What it's like
Civil engineering technicians support engineers in designing, building and maintaining infrastructure. You'll play a key part in turning plans into reality, working on projects that shape daily life.
You'll focus on helping civil engineers with technical tasks, from site surveys to drafting plans. It’s a hands-on role where you’ll see the results of your work in roads, bridges, buildings and more. It's a rewarding role to solve real-world problems and contribute to safer, more efficient communities.
You might work on construction sites, in offices or labs, using the latest technology to collect data and create drawings. Projects can range from highways and railways to flood defences and water systems.
You’ll support the civil engineers working in one of these specialist areas:
structural - dams, buildings, offshore platforms and pipelines
transportation – roads, railways, canals and airports
environmental – water supply networks, drainage and flood barriers
maritime – ports, harbours and sea defences
geotechnical – mining, earthworks and construction foundations
Your tasks might include:
preparing technical drawings using CAD software
carrying out site surveys and collecting measurements
testing materials like concrete and soil in the lab
assisting with cost estimates and project schedules
monitoring site progress and reporting issues
supporting engineers with environmental impact assessments
Green job
In this job you could be doing work to help the environment. You might:
support the design of sustainable drainage systems
help monitor and reduce construction waste
Hours
You'll usually work Monday to Friday.
You might work evenings, weekends or nights when projects require it.
You could be part of an on-call rota to deal with urgent issues.
Environment
You’ll split your time between office-based tasks and being out on site, often moving between locations as projects progress.
Expect to work outdoors in all seasons, wearing a safety helmet and protective boots to meet site regulations.
Projects range from roads and bridges to water treatment plants, so your surroundings and daily routines will change with each assignment.
Travel
You'll often travel to construction sites to carry out inspections and monitor progress.
Some projects may require regular travel to different locations, with occasional overnight stays depending on site distance.
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Energy Construction and built environment
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- time management
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- researching
- observation
- problem solving
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Design and Manufacture
Design and Technology
Engineering Science
Graphic Communication
Maths (Mathematics)
Physics
Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
Foundation Apprenticeship: Civil Engineering
Skills for Work: Building Services Engineering
Applications of Mathematics
Foundation Apprenticeship: Automotive
Foundation Apprenticeship: Construction
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
A National Certificate (SCQF level 7), Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8).
Or relevant work-based experience and qualifications such as a Modern Apprenticeship leading to a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Construction: Civil Engineering (SVQ level 2/3) or Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7).
Entry requirements for Modern Apprenticeships and college courses vary but most require qualifications at SCQF level 5 to 6. Some employers require up to three Highers (SCQF level 6).
Qualifications that demonstrate an understanding of construction, design and practical skills, such as Skills for Work Construction Crafts (SCQF level 4/5).
A driving licence can be useful.
You must hold a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card or equivalent and pass a health and safety test to work and train on construction sites.
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