Are you someone who likes practical, technical work? Do you want to shape the built environment that our society relies on? Then civil engineering is the perfect career choice. It suits those who like seeing projects progress from early design through to construction and long-term operation. While the role is often associated with design offices and major infrastructure schemes, civil engineering also sits alongside a range of related disciplines that focus on hands-on delivery.
At Lanes, civil engineers work closely with drainage engineers, jetting engineers and CCTV drainage engineers across water management, construction and infrastructure projects. This article explores the job prospects and progression for those looking to enter the field.

What Does a Career in Civil Engineering Involve?

A career in civil engineering covers the planning, design, construction and maintenance of infrastructure like roads, water networks and drainage systems that we all rely on every day.

Civil engineers typically split their time between design work and site work. In office-based roles, engineers use computer-aided design software, review technical data and develop plans that meet safety, environmental and regulatory requirements. On site, they oversee construction processes, monitor quality, manage contractors and make sure work meets agreed specifications.

The role involves working closely with architects, contractors, consulting engineers and other engineers across different stages of a project. Attention to detail, clear communication and an understanding of construction processes are key to delivering work that meets client and regulatory expectations.

Is Civil Engineering a Good Career for Graduates and Career Changers?

For graduates with a civil engineering degree, foundation degree or engineering science background, civil engineering offers a clear route into professional practice. Many roles include structured training, initial professional development and support to gain practical experience alongside academic knowledge.

Civil engineering can also suit career changers who have experience in construction, technical trades or site-based roles. People entering through apprenticeships, a year in industry or further study often find that practical skills developed on site transfer well into civil engineering roles.

The career offers a balance between technical knowledge and real-world application, making it appealing to those who want to build skills that are used directly on live projects.

Civil Engineer Job Prospects in The UK

Civil engineer job prospects in the UK remain strong due to ongoing demand for infrastructure, construction and water management projects. The need for more housing, drainage systems and environmental protection continues means there will be a long-term need for people with good engineering skills.

Aside from new projects, the need to maintain existing infrastructure such as drainage networks means there is demand for engineers with specific skills too. Overall, the demand for civil engineers, and the need for many companies to retain talent means that civil engineers can expect job security, and support from their employers to upskill and move up the career ladder.

Specialisms Within Civil Engineering and Related Engineering Roles

Civil engineering includes a wide range of specialist areas, and many engineers develop their careers in disciplines that focus on specific project needs. These include structural engineering, water management and environmental engineering.

At Lanes, civil engineers often work alongside drainage engineers, jetting engineers and CCTV drainage engineers on construction, repair and infrastructure projects.

Professional Development and Career Progression

Professional development plays a central role in civil engineering careers. Many engineers follow structured routes that include initial professional development, memberships and preparation for professional review.

Progression towards Chartered Engineer (CEng) status reflects increasing responsibility, technical capability and experience. As your engineering skills develop, you may take on more responsibility for managing projects, coordinating teams or moving into engineering project manager roles.

Further study, postgraduate qualifications or specialist training can support development into specific technical or leadership positions.

Working in Civil Engineering Within a Large Employer Like Lanes

Working within a large civil engineering company like Lanes means getting exposure to a wide range of projects, clients and technical challenges. Civil engineers work alongside drainage engineers, jetting engineers and other specialists on long-term contracts for our major water companies and infrastructure clients.

Our structured in-house training programme and supportive teams means you will have countless opportunities to develop skills and learn from experienced colleagues. We also offer plenty of benefits, alongside a great salary.

Exploring civil and other engineering roles at Lanes today.

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