Construction Engineering

Take the chance to leave very visible marks on the world.

Primarily related to infrastructure in the built environment such as roads, railways, harbours, airports, tunnels, buildings and even facilities within buildings – like power generation and ventilation systems, for example – core employers tend to fall into two categories.

Consultants are the first category, with organisations like Mott MacDonald, Surbana Jurong consultants and Arup counted within its ranks, and contractors such as Lendlease and Sembcorp Specialised Construction in the second category.

These are not the only employers in the industry, though, and graduates may find themselves approached by developers, retailers and even the public sector in the form of Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority (BCA) and the Housing Development Board (HDB).

Career overview

Fast-paced and with lots of teamwork, projects in this sector can vary in length from a scant few months to 10 years from inception to completion.

Typically, engineers are based in one geographical region, and are expected to travel to sites and client meetings. While opportunities to work overseas are available, they also tend to be optional.

While civil and structural engineers are indispensable, depending on the project, they may be joined by specialists from other disciplines as well.

Moreover, increased global awareness regarding environmental sustainability and pollution have also given environmental engineers a boost in this sector.

Trends and developments

Issues presently prevalent include cost efficiency and environmental sustainability. Clients, as well as the government, have also reduced their budgets for most projects, and the onus has fallen on engineers to find alternative solutions to minimise expenditure without compromising on quality and safety standards.

Rising concerns over chronic water shortages, global warming, and sustainable energy use have also prompted engineers to keep an eye out for new and environmentally-friendly materials and processes, particularly in regards to carbon emissions and footprints.

Yet another trend is the growing use of advanced technology. 3D modelling technology, for instance, has burgeoned in popularity as it allows engineers to project and pinpoint setbacks in the planning stage, rather than encountering them after construction has begun.

Career highlights

Making a visible difference

Graduates working in this field tend to find great satisfaction in seeing their projects completed and making a difference to a local area.

Wide exposure

There will be opportunities to meet with, and learn from, engineers from other disciplines, leading to an enhanced understanding of the industry and engineering in general.

Working abroad

Certain positions with selected employers may also give graduates the chance to travel the world.

Skills required in construction engineering

• Basic understanding of other engineering disciplines • Ability to work in a team • Ability to juggle several projects simultaneously and effectively • Good interpersonal skills