What skills or qualifications do you need for structural engineering?
Structural engineering isn’t really something you can pick up at home, especially when it could risk the safety of a large number of people. But indications that it might be the right career include:
- Understanding the technical details of how things work
- Sketching plans
- Good attention to detail
- Excellent mathematical, IT and analytical skills
- Project and budget management skills
- You enjoy collaboration in teams
- Creativity, commercial awareness and problem solving
The two main routes are either via a university degree in civil or structural engineering, or through an apprenticeship. If you’re considering a degree, then you should check it’s accredited by either the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) or the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE).
After completing your academic qualifications and a period of vocational training, you can then become accredited by ICE or iStructE. The three levels are:
- Engineering technician (EngTech – available with GCSE, A levels, HNC/HDN or BTEC/NVQ level 3 or equivalent)
- Incorporated engineer (IEng – available with an accredited degree in engineering)
- Chartered engineer (CEng – available with an accredited Masters or BEng plus a masters)
You’re potentially able to work your way up from technician status, but studying for a degree or masters will be the quickest route to progressing your career. Even as an experienced engineering technician, you’re likely to be professionally outranked by a new chartered engineer.
How can you find clients as a freelance structural engineer?
It’s possible to find projects and clients through general freelancing sites, and those which specialise in engineering (for example, Tasker). It’s important to optimise your profile listings on any sites to ensure you capture attention and display your most suitable skills, qualifications and experience.
The IStructE does have a job listings section, which has the benefit of being filled with relevant opportunities, but does mean you could be up against tough competition to secure jobs.
But it’s always better when clients are approaching you. Make sure you let any relevant contacts and former colleagues know that you are available for freelance work. Personal recommendations can be invaluable when you’re starting a self-employed business.
Relevant networking events can be useful, especially meeting local architects or construction companies who may want to collaborate. It’s also worthwhile creating a Google My Business listing to appear in searches for freelance structural engineers in your local area.
If you enjoy sharing your knowledge, it’s possible to also build up your reputation via articles on your own website, via other content platforms, or via social media. The most important thing is to allow time and effort to build a potential audience, as results usually don’t occur instantly.
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