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Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
SOC: 17-3022 • Data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics & O*NET
What They Do
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians typically perform the following tasks:
• Calculate dimensions, square footage, profile and component specifications, and material quantities, using calculator or computer.
• Read and review project blueprints and structural specifications to determine dimensions of structure or system and material requirements.
• Draft detailed dimensional drawings and design layouts for projects to ensure conformance to specifications.
• Confer with supervisor to determine project details such as plan preparation, acceptance testing, and evaluation of field conditions.
• Analyze proposed site factors and design maps, graphs, tracings, and diagrams to illustrate findings.
• Prepare reports and document project activities and data.
• Report maintenance problems occurring at project site to supervisor and negotiate changes to resolve system conflicts.
• Inspect project site and evaluate contractor work to detect design malfunctions and ensure conformance to design specifications and applicable codes.
• Conduct materials test and analysis, using tools and equipment and applying engineering knowledge.
• Develop plans and estimate costs for installation of systems, utilization of facilities, or construction of structures.
• Develop project budgets by estimating the cost of project activities.
• Plan and conduct field surveys to locate new sites and analyze details of project sites.
• Respond to public suggestions and complaints.
• Negotiate with contractors on prices for new contracts or modifications to existing contracts.
• Operate drones for site surveying and inspection, providing detailed aerial views of project sites.
Career Video
Video from CareerOneStop, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor
Key facts
Median: $64,200
Employment: 64,900
Growth (2024–2034):
+2.0%
Education:
Associate's degree
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Intelligence Metrics
Automation Risk Assessment
Low RiskWork-Life Balance Score
8.0/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
8.2
Realistic
8.8
Investigative
6.4
Artistic
5.2
Social
5.8
Enterprising
6.6
Conventional
Powered by O*NET Career Profiling
Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Top Skills
Critical-thinking skills
Decision-making skills
Math skills
Observational skills
Problem-solving skills
Writing skills
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 6,650
- Texas 5,790
- Illinois 3,490
- Florida 2,760
- North Carolina 2,530
- Pennsylvania 2,480
- Michigan 2,400
- Kentucky 2,250
- Washington 1,930
- Georgia 1,910
BLS OEWS data (2024-05)
Regional Wage Variations
-
California +27%$81,240
-
Texas -5%$61,190
-
Illinois +15%$73,520
-
Florida 1%$64,740
-
North Carolina -6%$60,460
-
Pennsylvania -3%$62,160
-
Michigan -5%$60,710
-
Kentucky -17%$53,450
-
Washington +22%$78,110
-
Georgia -11%$57,400
BLS OEWS state wage data
Top Metropolitan Areas
New York-Newark-Jersey City
Employment: High
Growth: +3.2%
Los Angeles-Long Beach
Employment: High
Growth: +2.8%
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Employment: Medium
Growth: +1.5%
Dallas-Fort Worth
Employment: Medium
Growth: +4.1%
San Francisco-Oakland
Employment: High
Growth: +2.3%
Based on BLS metropolitan area data
Industries with Highest Concentrations
Local government, excluding education and hospitals
85%
Engineering services
70%
State government, excluding education and hospitals
55%
Regional Job Market Outlook
Strong
West Coast
Stable
Northeast
Growing
South