Structural Engineering Careers: Opportunities for Graduates

The engineering field is one found to have much relevance in the labour market as long as there are innovations to improve human existence. Due to their high demand, career opportunities abound both in the private and public sector of the economy for structural engineering graduates.

Most Engineers who do not like the stress that comes with civil engineering specialize in structural engineering.

Although similar, structural engineers focus more on designs of building and factors that can lead to better building structures and edifices.

READ ALSO:  Opportunities for Telecommunication Engineering Graduates 

What is Structural Engineering?

Structural Engineering is a field under civil engineering which examines the stability and strength for building structures, design innovation and on-site project supervision.

It is quite important that buildings have a proper plan with proper inspection of the whole process in order to ensure the safety of building and bridges for users and the environment at large.

As a structural engineer, you would be required to work alongside architects, civil engineers and contractors to research, design and advise building contractors on the most appropriate materials for building.

Working hours could extend beyond 9-5 especially when deadlines are approaching.

Industries Where a Structural Engineer Can Work in Ghana

As a Structural Engineer, you can work in various positions across the industry as a:

• Building and Construction Consultant
• Design engineer
• Site Manager
• Structural engineer
• Aviation design engineer
• Environmental consultant
• Quantity Surveyor

Responsibilities of a Structural Engineer

As a Structural Engineer, you should:

• Be able to analyze and interpret information on structural components
• Give appropriate information on measurements and materials used in building structures
• Have good interpersonal communication skills, especially with architects, in order to come up with safe designs for people and their environment.
• Be goal-oriented and have a good eye for details especially in investigating the suitability of sites for projects.
• Be organised and able to multitask
• Have no breach of communication at all times.

Qualifications to Become a Structural Engineer

You can get into structural engineering with a bachelors degree in civil engineering with a sub-specialisation in structural engineering.

Furthermore, studying towards a masters degree in structural engineering will provide practical knowledge about the commercial aspects of projects in structural engineering.

Work Experience with Structural Engineering Jobs

Look out for opportunities in supporting roles, such as Assistant building surveyor or junior design engineer. Professional qualifications would also aid your progressing into management.

Joining a relevant professional body to gain relevant experience that would enable you to function better as a structural engineer, later on, is highly important.

Skills to Include in Your CV for Structural Engineering Jobs

Some of the skills to include in your CV includes:

• Excellent organization skills
• Strong interpersonal skills to work alongside other teams members
• Ability to understand technical building and design information
• Critical thinking and mathematical ability
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills;
• Excellent communication skills both written and verbally
• Being computer literate with knowledge of three-dimensional design

Universities in Ghana Where You Can Study Structural Engineering

• Accra Institute of Technology
• Ghana Technology University College
• Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology
• University of Ghana
• University of Cape Coast

It is important to note that some universities in ghana offer structural engineering as a subspeciality under civil engineering.