If you enjoy working outdoors and have a keen interest for construction on a large scale then a career as a Civil Engineering Technologist could be for you.
Career Overview
Civil Engineering Technologists work closely with the civil engineers in analysing, designing and reporting information and a big part of their job involves gathering information from sites by manually measuring, taking photos, surveying and sketching the site – in essence they are like researchers. They are also responsible for interpreting the data collected into preliminary plans and maintaining the documents as changes occur throughout the duration of the project.
The job requires the technologist to be accurate and responsible individuals who exercise excellent time management, as deadlines rarely ever get moved.
Required School Subjects
You will need to have taken the following subjects at high school:
- English
- Pure Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
Recommended subjects:
- Civil Technology
- Construction Technology
- Engineering, Graphics and Design
Institution and APS
The following institutions are highly recommended for studies in Engineering:Â
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT) – APS of 24
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – APS of 28
-  Durban University of Technology (DUT) – APS of 28
** Some universities of technology are phasing out the BTech/Diploma programme but still offer the Diploma/BTech in Engineering Technology in Civil engineering programme. Please consult the website of the university of interest to check latest offerings.
Required Qualification/s
BTech in Engineering is the required qualification but there is also an exception for a National Diploma in Engineering obtained specifically from a university of technology. Civil Engineering Technologists need to be registered as a professional technologist with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA).
Required Skills
You will need to have the following skills to succeed as a Civil Engineering Technologist:
- Teamworker
- Communication Skills
- Problem-solving Skills
- Lateral thinking Skills
- Detail Oriented
- Reliable
- Technological
- Initiative
- Analytical Skills
Where you can work
As a Civil Engineering Technologist, you will be able to work in one of the following environments:
- Civil Engineering Contractors
- Consulting Engineers
- Government Departments (Local, Provincial and National)
Working Hours
Working hours vary depending on the deadlines and number of projects taking place at the same time. Usually hours are standard 8am – 5pm when it isn’t busy but working on site might require longer hours and having to meet deadlines should also be taken into account.
Expected Salary
The current estimated annual salary for a Civil Engineering Technologist in South Africa ranges between R194 000 and R 617 000, with the average being R 334 301.
What to expect
Here are a few things you can expect from a career as a Civil Engineering Technologist:
- Working outdoors is a regular occurance
- Traveling is to be expected. Depending on the type of organisation of employment, it can be nationally and internationally
- Career is extremely challenging, mentally and physically as well
- Working without supervision and being able to adapt to a team environment when required
- There are many fields to choose from within civil engineering
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