Project Engineer
What's it like to be a Project Engineer?
Project Engineers manage civil engineering projects, such as the construction of roads, bridges, dams, and water/sewer/gas pipelines, among other projects. They plan the projects from the earliest stages, usually with a team of other Civil Engineers, and oversee its completion. Some of a Project Engineer’s work will be in an office but much of it will also be on-site. Project Engineers need high-level knowledge of construction methods, materials, safety, costing, and labour utilisation, and well as strong communication skills.
Tasks and duties
- Developing and maintaining project documentation including QA/QC (Quality Assurance/Quality Control) standards.
- Determining construction methods and materials.
- Drafting and interpreting specifications, plans, drawings and designs.
- Directing work site labour, delivery of materials and equipment and establishing detailed plans for coordination of site activities.
- Undertaking site inspections to ensure compliance with project specifications.
- Assisting in regular forecasting of project costs, revenue and margin.
- Interpreting architectural and engineering drawings to estimate total costs.
- Obtaining and analysing soil and rock samples to determine strength, compressibility and other critical site factors.
- Assessing subcontractor and supplier quotes.
- Ensuring on–site compliance with safety protocols.
- Monitoring changes to designs and assessing impacts on project costs.
How to become a Project Engineer
Project Engineers typically need a Bachelor of Engineering degree.
Complete a three-year Bachelor of Engineering, a broad degree that will teach you the skills you need to work as a Project Engineer.
Consider completing a one-year honours year, or a two-year Master of Engineering degree. These further qualifications will teach you extra skills and may improve your employability.
Gain work experience on engineering projects. While not all Project Engineer jobs are senior positions, some employers and projects require Project Engineers to have a proven work track record alongside qualifications.
Join Engineering New Zealand, a professional association that provides community, support, and professional development opportunities for engineers in New Zealand.
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