WHAT IS A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER?

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A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER ANALYZES AND DESIGNS THE

GRAVITY SUPPORT AND LATERAL FORCE RESISTANCE OF
BUILDINGS, BRIDGES, AND OTHER STRUCTURES.

“A STRUCTURAL ENGINEER”
Structural Engineering is a specialty within Civil
Engineering. Structural Engineers create drawings and
specifications, perform calculations, review the work
of other engineers, write reports and evaluations, and
observe construction sites. A Professional Engineer’s
license is required in order to practice Structural
Engineering. A license can be obtained only after
completing a prescribed amount of education and
work experience, and taking a 2-day exam. In
California and other states, certain structures, such as
hospitals and schools, require a Structural Engineer’s
license, which can be obtained after 3 years
additional experience and taking another exam.

"ANALYZES AND DESIGNS"

The basic tasks of structural engineering relate
numerical quantities of physical forces to physical
configurations of force-resisting elements. Analysis is
the process of determining forces in each element in
a structure (such as a beam) when the configuration
of elements is already defined. Design is the process
of configuring elements to resist forces whose values
are already known. Analysis and Design are
complementary procedures in the overall process of
designing new structures. After performing a
preliminary design, the designer estimates the final
configuration of elements of a structure, but only until
an analysis is performed can the forces in those
elements be known. After performing an analysis, the
element forces are known, and the elements can be
designed (their configuration can be chosen) more
precisely. The process iterates between analysis and
design until convergence is achieved.

"GRAVITY SUPPORT AND LATERAL FORCE RESISTANCE"

Structures are subject to vertical, or "Gravity" Loads
and horizontal, or "Lateral" Loads. Gravity loads
include "dead", or permanent, load, which is the
weight of the structure, including its walls, floors,
finishes, and mechanical systems, and "live", or
temporary load, which is the weight of a structure's
contents and occupants, including the weight of
snow. Lateral loads include those generated by the
wind, earthquakes, or explosions. Structural elements
must be designed so that, as a system, the structure
can resist all loads that will act upon it.

"BUILDINGS, BRIDGES, AND OTHER STRUCTURES"

Structures are any system that resists vertical or
horizontal loads. Structures include large items such as
skyscrapers, bridges, and dams, as well as small items
such as bookshelves, chairs, and windows. Most
everyday "structures" are "designed" by testing, or trial
and error; while large, unique, or expensive structures
that are not easily tested are generally designed by a
qualified structural engineer using mathematical
calculations. Most practicing structural engineers
design and analyze buildings, bridges, power plants,
electrical towers, dams, and other large structures
that are essential to life as we know it.

What is Structural Engineering?

It is a field of engineering dealing with the analysis and design of structures that
support or resist loads.
 Structural engineering theory is based upon physical laws and empirical
knowledge of the structural performance of different materials and
geometries. Structural engineering design utilizes a number of simple structural
elements to build complex structural systems.

Structural engineering depends upon a detailed knowledge of applied

mechanics, materials science and applied mathematics to understand and
predict how structures support and resist self-weight and imposed loads. To
apply the knowledge successfully a Structural engineeringgenerally requires
detailed knowledge of relevant empirical and theoretical design codes, the
techniques of structural analysis, as well as some knowledge of the corrosion
resistance of the materials and structures, especially when those structures are
exposed to the external environment. Since the 1990s, specialist software has
become available to aid in the design of structures, with the functionality to
assist in the drawing, analyzing and designing of structureswith maximum
precision; examples include AutoCAD, StaadPro, ETABS, Prokon, Revit Structure
etc. Such software may also take into consideration environmental loads, such
as from earthquakes and winds.

What Is Structural Engineering?

By Jim Lucas, Live Science Contributor | September 12, 2014 01:20am ET

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Structural engineers design the frameworks of buildings, such as this stainless
steel truss roof of a gymnasium, to make sure they can withstand stress and
environmental conditions.

Credit: niceregionpics | Shutterstock


Structural engineering — a specialty within the field of civil engineering —

focuses on the framework of structures, and on designing those structures to
withstand the stresses and pressures of their environment and remain safe, stable
and secure throughout their use. In other words, structural engineers make sure
that buildings don't fall down and bridges don't collapse.
Structural engineering is among the oldest types of engineering, dating back to
the first instance of tree branches being lashed together with vines to make a
shelter. Throughout recorded history, people have been designing and building
increasingly larger and more sophisticated structures, from primitive huts to
the International Space Station.
The names of the earliest practitioners of structural engineering are lost to
antiquity. We will never know who designed the Hanging Gardens of Babylon,
the Parthenon or the aqueducts of the Roman Empire. Some of the latter-day
practitioners in this field are known, although often not as well as the structures
they designed. Prominent structural engineers include Gustave Eiffel (Eiffel
Tower, Statue of Liberty) and Eero Saarinen (Gateway Arch). However, most
designs for famous modern structures such as the Large Hadron Collider and
the James Webb Space Telescopeare attributed to companies and
government organizations.
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What does a structural engineer do?

Structural engineers often work alongside civil engineers and architects as part
of a construction team. "In a nutshell," according to the Institution of Structural
Engineers, "if a structure was a human body, then the architect would be
concerned with the body shape and appearance, and the structural engineer
would be concerned with the skeleton and sinews."
Structures must be able to deal with the conditions in which they are built. A
house in Canada must have a roof that can bear the weight of heavy snow and
a stadium in California must be able to withstand earthquakes, for example.
When building bridges, designers must take into account the conditions of
terrain, wind, water and traffic volume. Structural engineers consider all of these
factors and provide technical advice about the project.
"Structural engineers battle gravity, wind, snow and rain every day to provide
the world with outstanding structures," Kate Leighton, a structural engineer, said
in "Careers in Structural Engineering, a publication of the Institution of Structural
Engineers. "They are experts at solving problems, meeting challenges and
providing creative solutions."
Structural engineers "design roof framing (beams, rafters, joists, trusses), floor
framing (floor decks, joists, beams, trusses, girders), arches, columns, braces,
frames, foundations and walls," according to the National Council of Structural
Engineers Association. "In bridges, they design the deck — or riding surface,
girders or stringers, and piers. The materials they use include steel, concrete,
wood, masonry, and aluminum. Engineers design the structure to resist forces
from gravity, earthquakes, high winds, water, soil, collisions and blast explosions."
 According to [Link], a structural engineer's job includes:
 Analyzing blueprints, maps, reports, and topographical and geological data;
 Estimating the cost and quantities of materials, equipment and labor;
 Computing load and grade requirements, water flow rates and material stress
factors to determine design specifications;
 Inspecting project sites to monitor progress and ensure the project is being
constructed according to design specifications;
 Conducting studies of traffic patterns or environmental conditions to identify
potential problems and assess how they will affect the project.
Critical skills that a person needs in structural engineering include an in-depth
understanding of physics and mathematics. A structural engineer must also
know the properties of various materials, such as their density, hardness, tensile
strength, bulk modulus and bending strength. They need to be able to calculate
how different materials will perform under stresses such as compression, tension,
bending and twisting, as well as under various environmental conditions of
temperature, pressure, corrosive gases and liquids, and even radiation. They
also need to be able to predict how these materials will perform over an
extended period of time.
Structural engineers rely increasingly on computer-aided design (CAD) systems,
so proficiency with computers is essential. In addition to speeding up the
drafting process, CAD systems allow for quick and easy modifications of designs
and three-dimensional (3D) visualization of finished parts and assemblies.
Structural engineer salary
Most structural-engineering jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree in
engineering. Many employers, particularly those that offer engineering
consulting services, also require certification as a professional engineer. A
master’s degree is often required for promotion to management, and ongoing
education and training are needed to keep up with advances in technology,
materials, computer hardware and software and government regulations.
Additionally, many structural engineers belong to the Structural Engineering
Institute of the American Society of Civil Engineers.
According to [Link], as of July 2014, the salary range for a newly
graduated structural engineer with a bachelor's degree is $41,045 to $62,883.
The range for a midlevel engineer with a master's degree and five to 10 years of
experience is $74,600 to $102,063; and the range for an engineer with a master's
degree and more than 10 years of experience is $87,562 to $113,770. Many
experienced engineers with advanced degrees are promoted to management
positions or start their own businesses where they can earn even more.
The future of structural engineering
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) states that employment of civil engineers
(there is no separate information about structural engineers) is projected to
grow 20 percent from 2012 to 2022. There should be opportunities for highly
qualified applicants, particularly those who have kept abreast of the latest
developments in technology. Having good grades from a highly rated institution
should give a job seeker an advantage over the competition.
Structural Engineers: Roles and Responsibilities

Published: 18 Jul 2013

The role of the structural engineer is a key component in the construction
process. Part of the wider discipline of civil engineering, structural engineering is
concerned with the design and physical integrity of buildings and other large
structures, like tunnels and bridges. Structural engineers have wide range of
responsibilities - not least a duty to ensure the safety and durability of the project
on which they are working.

Unlike architects, who must focus on the appearance, shape, size and use of
the building, structural engineers must solve technical problems - and help the
architect achieve his or her vision for the project.

What do structural engineers do?

Structural engineers work in offices and on construction sites - or may split their
time between both contexts. Locations can be varied, including work in
metropolitan and rural environments. Depending on the size of the project,
structural engineers may also be required to work long hours - in teams
consisting of professional, skilled and semi-skilled workers.

Structural engineers must have a strong grasp of physics, three-dimensional

conceptual skills and creative problem solving. Outside of an ability to apply
principles of mechanics, mathematics and physics to construct safe, sustainable
buildings, the roles and responsibilities of structural engineers include:

Design: Many structural engineers deal primarily in the design of structures -

calculating the loads and stresses the construction will have to safely withstand.
Structural engineers should be able to factor in the different qualities and
strengths delivered by a range of building materials, and understand how to
incorporate support beams, columns and foundations.
Investigation: Before work can begin, structural engineers are involved in the
investigation and survey of build sites to determine the suitability of the earth for
the requirements of the upcoming project.
Communication: Structural engineers will be required to co-ordinate and consult
with other members of their projects, including engineers, environmental
scientists, architects and landscape architects. They may also be required to
assist government bodies in their own inspections relating to the project.
Management: Structural engineers are often responsible for the organisation
and delivery of materials and equipment for the needs of the construction
project. The supervision and management of on-site labour may also be a
necessity.
Training
Because of the safety issues involved in their work, structural engineers must be
trained to strict standards. Most structural engineering courses require a related
undergraduate degree in an engineering discipline. After graduation, structural
engineers work towards professional qualifications - becoming Associated and
then Chartered Members with the Institution of Structural Engineers.

Structural engineering courses can be very competitive and prospective

candidates should look for practical experience to bolster their applications.
After qualification, work experience placements are useful for getting a foot in
the door of the industry - and developing network contacts.

Becoming a structural engineer takes a substantial amount of time and

dedication - including a focus on professional development. Once qualified
however, the learning process continues - as new methods and materials are
introduced into the construction industry. Structural engineering jobs can take
place across national and international contexts and involve work on some of
the most exciting construction projects in the world.

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Structural engineer: job description

Structural engineers design, plan and oversee the construction of new buildings
and bridges, or alterations and extensions to existing properties or other
structures.

It can be very satisfying to have the chance to see something you've had a part
in become a reality.

What does a structural engineer do? Typical employers | Qualifications and

training | Key skills
Structural engineers are primarily concerned with designing and constructing
buildings and structures that are safe and capable of withstanding the elements
to which they will be exposed, as well as improving the structural integrity of
existing buildings. The job is very closely related to that of civil engineer.
Key tasks include:

 preparing reports, designs and drawings

 making calculations about loads and stresses
 selecting appropriate construction materials
 providing technical advice
 obtaining planning and/or building regulations approval
 liaising with relevant professional staff such as architects
 monitoring and inspecting work undertaken by contractors
 administering contracts
 managing projects
 inspecting properties to check conditions/foundations
Most structural engineers work either for construction/engineering consultancies
– where they focus on designing structures and tend to work in an office
environment – or for contractors, where they will oversee the construction of the
structure, working on site. Most engineers will specialise in a type of project (or
infrastructure), such as bridges or buildings. See a list of the main specialisms
here.

Working hours for consultant structural engineers are typical office hours, with
some overtime to meet deadlines; engineers working on site tend to have
longer hours and shiftwork.

Typical employers of structural engineers

 Construction/engineering consultancies

 Construction/engineering contractors
 Utility companies
 Local authorities
 Central government organisations
Vacancies are advertised by TARGETjobs, by university careers services, by
recruitment agencies, via professional bodies such as the Institution of Structural
Engineers, and in national newspapers and magazines such as
TARGETjobs Engineering, Building Services Journal, Construction News and New
Civil Engineer as well as their online equivalents.
Qualifications and training required
There are routes into a career in structural engineering for both university
graduates and school leavers.

Graduates will need a degree in civil or structural engineering accredited by the

Institution of Structural Engineers. You can then obtain one of two recognised
professional qualifications with the Institution of Structural Engineers. You can
apply for incorporated engineer (IEng) status with a BEng, or charted engineer
(CEng) status if you graduated with a BEng plus a masters, or an MEng. Both
titles will help career prospects, but chartered engineers are often of greater
value to employers.
 You then need to complete period of vocational training with an accredited
employer, as well as a professional review, before you can obtain either of these
titles. For more information, see our article on achieving chartered status.
Relevant work experience will boost your graduate application. Many
employers offer sponsorship, vacation work and 'year out' placements which
can provide valuable contacts and a useful insight into the profession. Read our
guide to getting work experience within the construction industry.
To find out about how you can get into this career via a school leaver route (eg
an apprenticeship or school leaver training programme) see the construction
and property sector of TARGETcareers, our website aimed at school leavers, and
particularly our article on civil and structural engineering.
Key skills for structural engineers
 Creativity

 Commercial awareness
 Teamworking and communication skills
 Excellent mathematical, IT and analytical skills
 Good attention to detail
 Project and budget management skills
A good working knowledge of construction methods, materials and legal
regulations is important.

Next: search graduate jobs and internships

 View our graduate structural engineering and civil engineering jobs and
internships
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What to expect

 The work is office-based with occasional visits to construction sites in order

to visit other professionals and clients, or to measure progress of a building
project.
 When visiting sites, appropriate safety equipment needs to be worn.
 According to WISE, approximately 23% of graduates working in
engineering roles are women. Various organisations, including WISE
and Equate Scotland, aim to redress this imbalance, by encouraging
more women into engineering careers.
 Travel during the working day is common to visit sites. Working away from
home on a project is also possible from time to time, especially for senior
structural engineers and project managers.
 As an engineering consultant, you can work on projects anywhere in the
world, for example repair projects following large-scale natural disasters
such as earthquakes or tsunamis.