If you’re a technical person with an interest in infrastructure and enjoy designing as well as drawing then a career as a Civil Engineering Technician could be for you.
Career Overview
Civil Engineering Technicians assist civil engineers in the designing, planning and building stages of all things infrastructure. Part of the responsibilities that come with the role include observing process on job sites, collecting data and completing reports.
Civil Engineering Technicians use computers for most of their work and this requires them to have good computer skills as well as strong analytical skills.
Required School Subjects
You will need to have taken the following subjects at high school:
- English
- Pure Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
Recommended subjects:
- Geography
- Engineering, Graphics and Design (EGD)
- Computer Applications Technology (CAT)
Institution and APS
The following are highly recommended institutions for studies in Civil Engineering Technician:
- Stellenbosch University – APS of 600
- University of Cape Town (UCT) – Faculty Point Score (FPS) of 420
- University of Witwatersrand (Wits) – APS of 40+
- University of Pretoria (UP) – APS of 42
Required Qualification/s
A Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering or similar programme is accepted by most companies however there are some organisations that are willing to accept a Higher National Certificate or Diploma for the role.
Required Skills
The following are some key skills that make for a great Civil Enginering Technician:
- Critical-thinking Skills
- Decision Making Skills
- Problem-solving Skills
- Communication Skills
- Computer Skills
- Detail-oriented
- Team worker
- Time Management
Where you can work
As a Civil Engineeing Technician, you will be able to work in one of the following environments:
- Mining Industry
- Government
- Architecture Firms
- Private Companies
- Self-Employed
Working Hours
Standard hours apply for Civil Engineering Technicians, covered Monday to Friday. Some projects might require more hours to meet deadlines, if that is the case then working late is a high possibility. Projects usually dictate how many hours need to be covered.
Expected Salary
The current estimated salary in South Africa is between R99 000 to R359 000, with the average being an estimated R186 896. Some Civi Engineering Technicians may be contractors and if that is the case then an hourly rate is applicable and the current estimated average hourly rate is R57.87. The value is influenced by qualifications and years of experience. Bonuses are only offered to permanently employed technicians.
What to expect
Here are a few things you can expect from a career as a Civil Engineering Technician:
- possible long hours spent on solving difficult problems (as well as the reward of actually resolving the issue)
- having to stay on top of the latest software developments – perhaps further study will be needed
- constantly in demand
Related Articles
Pros and Cons of Distance Learning in South Africa
Distance learning is a great way to study from the comfort of your own
First-Year in BSc Civil Engineering
Are you considering a degree in Civil Engineering? Tondani recounts her first-year experience and
Pros and Cons of Distance Learning in South Africa
Distance learning is a great way to study from the comfort of your own
Study Engineering: Everything You Need to Know
Eager to study engineering in South Africa? Whether you’re a local student or an
