Civil Engineers
Overview
Introduction
Civil engineering involves the application of theoretical knowledge to the practical planning of the layout of our cities, towns, and other communities. It is concerned with modifying the natural environment and building new environments to improve life for the general public. Civil engineers are involved in the design and construction of the physical structures that make up our surroundings, such as roads, bridges, buildings, harbors, tunnels, and water and sewage systems. There are approximately 326,300 civil engineers in the Unit...
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Civil engineers are among the lowest paid in the engineering field; however, their salaries are high when compared to those of many other occupations. The median annual earnings for civil engineers were $95,890 in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The lowest paid 10 percent made less than $63,220 per year, and, at the other end of the pay scale, 10 percent earned more than $150,6...
Work Environment
Many civil engineers work regular 40-hour weeks, often in or near major industrial and commercial areas. Sometimes they are assigned to work in remote areas and foreign countries, especially in developing countries such as China. Because of the diversity of civil engineering positions, working conditions vary widely. Offices, labs, factories, and actual sites are typical environments for engine...
Outlook
Employment opportunities for civil engineers are projected to increase by 5 percent (faster than the average for all careers) from 2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). "With continued investment in U.S. infrastructure, civil engineers will be needed to manage projects that meet societys need for upgrading bridges, roads, water systems, buildings, and other structures,"...