what is a civil engineer?
As a civil engineer, you bring stability to structures. You ensure that they can withstand all loads. Whether in building construction, civil engineering, or water engineering, the static calculations must be spot on. You use suitable materials such as concrete, steel, or even wood. Safety is your top priority in your projects. But they also need to be functional and cost-effective. This applies to all the buildings you’re responsible for, including residential buildings, tunnels, or bridges. Of course, you don’t create technical masterpieces on your own. You plan and develop them together with architects. While the architect focuses on the aesthetics, it’s important to you that the structures stand the test of time. As a civil engineer, you have a variety of tasks. Therefore, you usually specialise in a specific field. This could be environmental engineering, geotechnical engineering, or construction and maintenance management. Is this profession something for you? Then keep reading to find out what skills and qualities you should have to succeed as a civil engineer.
civil engineering jobsworking as a civil engineer.
Your tasks as a civil engineer are diverse. They mainly depend on your area of specialization. Essentially, you design structures and ensure they are built on time and within budget. Find out more about your responsibilities as a civil engineer here.
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your area of responsibility
Your typical tasks as a civil engineer include:
- Planning: To be able to plan a construction project, you need a requirements profile. This involves recording all the wishes of your clients. These are usually private individuals, companies, or public authorities. You take into account economic, technical, and ecological aspects. You present your clients with different options along with cost estimates.
- Preparation: The decision has been made, you’re creating your concept and detailed drafts. Your construction project is already taking shape in your mind. You’re obtaining building permits and awarding the contracts. At the same time, you make sure that materials and machinery are ready on the construction site.
- Construction management: The building is taking shape. You coordinate and oversee all the people involved in the construction. Additionally, you ensure that everyone complies with safety standards and environmental guidelines. If something goes wrong on the site, you step in.
- Communication: As the construction progresses, you keep your clients informed. At the same time, you stay in touch with everyone involved in the project, such as architects or construction engineers. If it becomes necessary to make changes to the plans, you coordinate with all parties involved.
- Handover: The work is done. You're satisfied with the result. Now you check the quality of the work. If everything is perfect, you hand over the construction project to the client.
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who are your colleagues?
Civil engineers mainly work on construction sites alongside architects. You share the responsibilities. The architect primarily relies on their eyes, while you rely on your expertise. A construction project is always a team effort. Many specialists are involved, such as building services engineers, roofers, and masons. Which colleagues you work closely with depends on your area of specialization. For example, in infrastructure projects, you may also collaborate with project managers from public authorities.
types of civil engineers.
As a civil engineer, you have many specialisations available to you. Here’s a selection:
- Construction: In this specialization, everything revolves around load-bearing structures. They need to be stable. Whether it's bridges, industrial buildings, towers, or residential houses, the choice of materials is crucial. You design models using concrete, glass, and steel. Additionally, you combine different building materials. Throughout the process, you always keep the function and lifespan of your structure in mind.
- Construction and maintenance management: This specialised area also revolves around building projects. You don't just oversee their construction, but also ensure they are maintained. You pay attention to making sure they are economical and environmentally friendly. You evaluate how to make the best use of existing space, whether in transportation or infrastructure planning.
- Geotechnics: In this field, it’s all about going beneath the surface. You work with the ground itself. After all, the foundation needs to be solid. To ensure this, you use sensor technologies to examine the rock and any potential natural hazards. If necessary, you improve the soil with modern techniques.
- Hydraulic engineering and water management: The power of water is at the heart of your work as a water engineer. On one hand, you harness it; on the other, you protect against it. This involves planning and constructing hydropower plants and dams. You also take care of revitalising water bodies. The measures aim to ensure high water quality and protect groundwater.
salary as a civil engineer.
On the popular job platforms, you can find the average gross salaries for civil engineers. As a sought-after professional, your monthly salary is already in the higher range. Your individual base salary mainly depends on your education, specialization, and experience. A university degree pays off. As a newcomer, you can expect an annual salary of around 88,000 CHF. That corresponds to a gross monthly salary of approximately 7,300 CHF. Most companies also pay you a 13th month salary. Find out more here about your gross salary as a construction manager.
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how much do I earn as a civil engineer in a permanent position?
Your median salary as a civil engineer is around 8,500 CHF per month. That amounts to approximately 102,000 CHF per year. In the construction industry, university degrees pay off. With one, you can add about 8,000 CHF to your base salary. The more experienced you are and the more successful construction projects you've completed, the higher your salary. With high qualifications and practical experience, it’s possible to earn up to 200,000 CHF per year. The region where you work also plays a significant role. Companies in Zurich and Graubünden tend to pay more than those in Bern.
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In which industry do I earn the most as a civil engineer?
As a qualified civil engineer in the construction industry, you earn an excellent salary. Due to the skilled labour shortage, many companies are competing for you. If you're a recognised expert, you can easily negotiate a high base salary and good working conditions. With work experience, further training, and specialisations, you can increase your gross income in the construction sector.
education and further training as a civil engineer.
To work as a civil engineer and earn a good income, you need to have a university degree. Your path typically starts with an EFZ qualification in the construction field. Alternatively, you can begin your studies directly after completing your Matura at a university of applied sciences or ETH Zurich. Depending on which institution you attend, you'll find different specializations. If you're interested in research after your studies, you might choose a program at a university. On construction sites, you never stop learning. As a civil engineer, you keep your expertise constantly up to date. You regularly inform yourself about changes in building laws and updated construction standards.
positions as civil engineer.
Civil engineers are highly sought-after, well-qualified professionals. After completing your studies, you have excellent prospects on the job market. Even career changers from fields like electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, or civil engineering have good chances. It’s also possible to advance to a civil engineering role even if you’re a qualified bricklayer or roofer. Look into part-time courses and further training. Gaining additional qualifications, work experience, and scientific skills will make it easier for you to start a degree.
job openings for career changers as civil engineers.
Your prospects as a civil engineer are excellent. Typically, you already coordinate a construction project as a project manager shortly after starting your career. In large companies or public administrations, you may also serve as chief technology officer (CTO). Additionally, a master's degree is available to specialise in certain areas. Depending on your interests, options include construction economics, sustainable building, or heritage conservation and adaptive reuse. Some companies require civil engineers to hold a doctorate. In any case, further qualifications open many doors for you. If you're interested, you can venture into research and development. If you’re looking for leadership responsibilities, you might stay in the private sector. Technical expertise is the foundation of your success as a civil engineer. To fulfil your leadership role effectively, soft skills are also essential. You can acquire all the necessary competencies through seminars or coaching sessions. Want to develop further as a civil engineer? Check out our tests and tips.
career opportunities and development potential as a civil engineer.
Your prospects as a civil engineer are excellent. Typically, you already coordinate a construction project as a project manager shortly after starting your career. In large companies or public administrations, you may also serve as chief technology officer (CTO). Additionally, a master's degree is available to specialise in certain areas. Depending on your interests, options include construction economics, sustainable building, or heritage conservation and adaptive reuse. Some companies require civil engineers to hold a doctorate. In any case, further training opens many doors for you. If you're interested, you can venture into research and development. If you’re looking for leadership responsibilities, you might stay in the private sector. Technical expertise is the foundation of your success as a civil engineer. To fulfil your leadership role effectively, soft skills are also essential. You can acquire all the necessary competencies through seminars or coaching sessions. Want to develop further as a civil engineer? Check out our tests and tips.
skills as a civil engineer.
Your success as a civil engineer is based on technical skills and soft skills. The following competencies and qualities will help you along the way:
- Organisational talent: As a civil engineer, you plan, develop, and execute projects. You need a good team, the right materials, and a thorough situational analysis. With proper organisation and well informed decisions, you bring your construction project in on time and within budget.
- Number affinity: In your profession, you perform static calculations. You deal with dimensioning, prepare cost estimates, and write reports. At the end of the construction project, you handle billing. If you struggle with numbers, you'll find it challenging. Software programs assist you with analyses and designs. Nevertheless, mathematical skills help you spot errors in the system.
- Leadership qualities: You work as a civil engineer in a team. It’s up to you to motivate your team to perform at their best. When problems arise, you find solutions. You strike the right tone and show appreciation to each individual team member. That’s how you manage to have your team stand by you through thick and thin.
advantages of working as a civil engineer at randstad.
There are many good reasons to work at Randstad as a civil engineer.
✓ exciting jobs with well-known companies
✓ a reliable contact person whenever you need one, personal advice really matters
✓ attractive employment conditions and good social benefits
✓ continuing education courses and personal development opportunities
✓ clear information in the myRandstad app
✓ do you have a fixed-term contract? Often, there’s a chance to secure a permanent position afterwards. Many popular companies also recruit their staff directly through Randstad.
your professional development budget as a civil engineer at randstad.
If you work as a civil engineer for Randstad, you have access to further training courses. As part of the TempTraining program from swissstaffing, you can attend training sessions. You will get the course fees reimbursed later, provided you pass the course exam. Your consultant from Randstad is there to support you if you have any questions. This way, you can acquire additional language skills or job-specific knowledge, all during your working hours as a civil engineer.
application tips for civil engineers at randstad.
Have you found your dream job as a civil engineer? It’s not just qualifications and certificates that determine the success of your applications. Careful, error-free, and personalized documents will definitely help you in your job search. Here are a few useful tips to improve your chances:
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1. how to find a job as a civil engineer
Search through the Randstad job offers. If you don’t find a position that’s exactly right for you, you’re still welcome to get in touch with us personally without any obligation or to create a Randstad profile.
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2. applying as a civil engineer
The job ad continues right away: apply online, give us a call, or send us an email.
Make sure your documents are complete:
✓ CV with photo
✓ Work references and diplomas
Don’t have a CV yet or only an outdated version? Put together a new layout using a free online template. -
3. preparing for a job interview as a civil engineer
A good preparation will help you stay calm during the interview as a civil engineer.
Here are some tips for your job interview.
frequently asked questions.
Here you'll find answers to frequently asked questions about working as a civil engineer.
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what does a civil engineer do?
Stable structures that can withstand any load are your calling as a civil engineer. Whatever you plan, develop, and implement, the structural integrity must be precise. Whether you use concrete, steel, glass, or a combination of these materials, safety is your highest priority. You also make sure that structures are both functional and cost-effective. You develop technical masterpieces such as bridges, residential buildings, and tunnels together with architects and bring them to life with a construction team. Usually, you specialise in a specific field. Learn more here about your responsibilities as a civil engineer.
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how much do I earn as a civil engineer?
As a civil engineer, your average gross monthly salary is around 8,500 CHF, which amounts to approximately 102,000 CHF per year. Your salary increases with your education and experience. If you hold a university degree, you earn more than someone with a diploma from a Fachhochschule. Additionally, your area of specialization influences your monthly pay. Want to find out how you can boost your gross salary as a civil engineer? You’ll find the tips here.
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is being a civil engineer a good profession?
If you’re fascinated by structures, a career as a civil engineer is the right choice for you. Your main challenge is to design buildings that stand the test of time across generations. They need to perform their function reliably and be economically viable. You take pride in the finished result and feel proud of your work. Every construction project is different and challenges you anew. You won’t get bored in this profession. Plus, your career prospects and gross salary are quite attractive. Want to work as a civil engineer? Read on to find out what awaits you.
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is being a civil engineer difficult?
Statics and a well-functioning team are your daily challenges as a civil engineer. Through your studies, you prepare yourself professionally for your career. In practice, you gain experience and learn to handle your responsibilities. To succeed, you continuously further your education and acquire any missing skills. Exciting, demanding tasks await you, providing variety. Find out more about your role as a civil engineer on this page.
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do you need experience to become a civil engineer?
Practical experience helps you get started with your studies. Even with a basic qualification as a bricklayer or roofer, you have an advantage because you know all the processes on a construction site. If you begin your studies immediately after completing your matura, use the semester breaks to gain hands-on experience in construction. For career changers from related fields, work experience is mandatory. Some companies require several years of professional experience for demanding construction projects. Through Randstad, you can find positions for career changers and experienced professionals. On this page, learn which skills you need as a civil engineer.
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what requirements do I need to meet to become a civil engineer?
As a civil engineer, you need a degree from a fachhochschule (FH) or a university qualification. Large companies and public administrations require a master's degree for complex construction projects. Work experience and successfully completed projects increase your chances. As a career changer from related fields, you also have good prospects. If you also have organisational talent and leadership skills, nothing stands in the way of your career in the construction industry. Are you looking for an attractive position with responsibility and prospects? Discover our offers for civil engineers here.
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how do I apply for a job opening as a civil engineer?
Your application as a civil engineer is straightforward. Create a Randstad profile and browse our job portal for open positions in your area. Found an interesting offer? Then send us your cover letter, CV, and certificates right away. Need help with your application? Our application tips will help you easily put together a compelling application.
