Apply theory and principles of civil engineering in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of structures and facilities under the direction of engineering staff or physical scientists.
SOC: 17-3022.00
Common Job Titles
Civil Engineering Technician
Engineer Technician
Engineering Assistant
Engineering Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeEvaluate construction site conditions and materials compliance with engineering specifications using field data collectors, GPS receivers, and surveying equipment.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate CAD software and digital terrain modeling systems to draft technical drawings and specifications for civil engineering projects.
Proficient
KnowledgeInterpret engineering plans, technical specifications, and construction blueprints to communicate design intent and requirements to construction teams and stakeholders.
Proficient
KnowledgeEstimate quantities of materials, labor, and project timelines using spreadsheet software and project management tools to support construction planning.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess construction progress and project deviations from design documents through on-site inspections and monitoring to ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
Proficient
MindsetPrioritize competing project demands and technical requirements while maintaining professional standards and meeting client expectations under time constraints.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply civil engineering principles and mathematical calculations in planning and designing infrastructure projects under the direction of engineering staff.
Developing
KnowledgeAnalyze soil, concrete, and construction materials test data in laboratory settings using compression testing machines and analytical balances to ensure quality standards.
Developing
Hands-onExecute field surveying procedures using theodolites, total stations, and transit levels to collect accurate topographic and boundary data under varying site conditions.
Developing
MindsetEngage with interdisciplinary teams and external stakeholders to coordinate project activities and resolve technical conflicts in field and office settings.
Developing
Hands-onPerform geotechnical investigations and materials sampling using soil augers, split spoon samplers, and field testing equipment following established protocols.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate geographic information system (GIS) data and spatial analysis tools to support infrastructure planning and environmental impact assessments.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
62,130
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $43,550. 25th percentile: U.S. $51,730. 50th percentile: U.S. $64,200. 75th percentile: U.S. $79,550. 90th percentile: U.S. $97,840. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$43,550
10% of workers earn the following or more
$97,840
Workers on average earn
$68,450
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Engineering and Technology4.5/5
Mathematics4.2/5
Building and Construction4.2/5
Design4.2/5
Administrative3.6/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
