What they do
Civil engineering technicians support engineers with planning, designing and overseeing the construction and maintenance of buildings, roads and other infrastructure projects. They assist with estimating costs, preparing timetables and planning the specifications for materials needed for projects. Prior to the commencement of construction they may survey and measure proposed sites and consult with clients, contractors, members of the public and other stakeholders about each group's particular requirements and/or concerns. Once construction has begun, civil engineering technicians may work closely with builders and site managers, overseeing the project to ensure a high quality of materials are used, and work is maintained.
Working conditions
Civil engineering technicians work in offices and on building and construction sites throughout Western Australia. They generally work standard business hours, however evening and weekend work may be required when working to a deadline. When working on construction sites, they may spend a large amount of time working outdoors in most weather conditions. All workers on a construction site must undergo construction induction training and will be required to follow strict safety guidelines, including wearing protective clothing.
Tools and technologies
Civil engineering technicians often use surveying and measuring equipment, and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software in the planning phase of a construction project. When working on a construction site they may use two-way radios and will be required to wear safety equipment, which may include hard hats, steel-capped boots, ear muffs, safety glasses and high-visibility clothing. They will also need to be familiar with the properties and prices of a variety of building materials and machinery so that they are able to develop the most accurate and efficient cost estimates.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a civil engineering technician, you usually need to undertake a traineeship in civil construction manager or civil and structural engineering. The civil construction manager (level 5) and civil construction senior manager traineeships usually take 36 months to complete.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.