CIVIL ENGINEER :

Many of these branches overlap, but in all areas your typical duties would inclu de: Discussing requirements with the client and other professionals like architects, surveyors and building contractors Analysing survey, mapping and materials-testing data with computer modelling sof tware Drawing up blueprints, using computer aided design (cad) packages Judging whether projects are workable by assessing materials, costs, time and la bour requirements Assessing the environmental impact and risks connected to projects Preparing bids for tenders, and reporting to clients, public agencies and planni ng bodies Managing, directing and monitoring progress during each phase of a project Making sure sites meet legal guidelines, and health and safety requirements. Hours and environment You'll work between 35 and 40 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Your time will be split between the office and working on site. Sitework would b e in all weathers and may involve extensive travel, sometimes overseas, dependin g on the contract. Skills and interests To be a civil-engineer technician, you'll need: Excellent maths, science, and IT skills The ability to explain design ideas and plans clearly The ability to analyse large amounts of data and assess solutions Confident decision-making ability Excellent communication skills Project management skills The ability to work within budgets and to deadlines Good teamworking skills A comprehensive knowledge of relevant legal regulations.

Analyze survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, aerial photography, and othe r topographical or geologic data to plan projects. Plan and design transportation or hydraulic systems and structures, following co nstruction and government standards, using design software and drawing tools. Compute load and grade requirements, water flow rates, and material stress facto rs to determine design specifications. Inspect project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design speci fications and safety or sanitation standards. Direct construction, operations, and maintenance activities at project site. Direct or participate in surveying to lay out installations and establish refere nce points, grades, and elevations to guide construction. Estimate quantities and cost of materials, equipment, or labor to determine proj ect feasibility.

Prepare or present public reports, such as bid proposals, deeds, environmental i mpact statements, and property and right-of-way descriptions. Test soils and materials to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations, concrete, asphalt, or steel. Provide technical advice regarding design, construction, or program modification s and structural repairs to industrial and managerial personnel. Conduct studies of traffic patterns or environmental conditions to identify engi neering problems and assess the potential impact of projects.

QUANTITY SURVEYOR Typical work activities Typical tasks may include: preparing tender and contract documents, including bills of quantities with the architect and/or the client; undertaking costs analysis for repair and maintenance project work; assisting in establishing a client s requirements and undertaking feasibility stud ies; performing risk and value management and cost control; advising on procurement strategy; identifying, analysing and developing responses to commercial risks; preparing and analysing costings for tenders; allocating work to subcontractors; providing advice on contractual claims; analysing outcomes and writing detailed progress reports; valuing completed work and arranging payments; maintaining awareness of the different building contracts in current use; understanding the implications of health and safety regulations. Areas requiring more specialised knowledge include: offering advice on property taxation; providing post-occupancy advice, facilities management services and life cycle c osting advice; assisting clients in locating and accessing additional and alternative sources o f funds; enabling clients to initiate construction projects; advising on the maintenance costs of specific buildings.