Structural engineer

As a structural engineer  you could:

• develop engineering plans using computer software
• investigate the properties of building materials like glass, steel and concrete
• work out the loads and stresses on different parts of a building
• use computer models to predict how structures will react to the weather
• inspect unsafe buildings and decide whether they should be demolished
• work out why and how buildings have collapsed

We've identified this as a potential green job

For a structural engineer to be a green job, you could:

• create energy efficient building designs
• recommend the use of low-carbon materials like sustainably sourced timber and recycled steel
• design structures which can be used to generate sustainable energy

Find out more about green careers

• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• maths knowledge
• knowledge of building and construction
• design skills and knowledge
• excellent verbal communication skills
• complex problem-solving skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

You could move into:

• construction design
• project management
• research or lecturing
• freelance consultancy work, like providing services to building insurers
• work on construction and engineering projects overseas, with disaster relief agencies

You could also specialise in:

• renewable energy projects
• sustainable building materials
• forensics, where you investigate why a building or structure has failed