How to Get a Civil Engineer Job in the U.S.

Civil engineering is one of the world's oldest professions. The work of a civil engineer is essential to the ongoing development of civilization. Civil engineers build roads, buildings, airports, dams, bridges, tunnels, and sewage systems. Civil engineers are responsible for realizing blueprints and designs in alignment with government regulations and environmental concerns. They weight the duration of a project and its durability. Civil engineers specialize in structural engineering, water resource allocation, construction, transportation, geotechnical engineering, and urban planning. The United States job market for civil engineers is expected to grow by 18 percent through 2016.

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  Obtain a bachelor's and a master's degree in civil engineering at an accredited school. A master's degree is strongly recommended by the American Society of Civil Engineers due to the demands of modern construction and design elements. Participate in internships and summer job projects in the civil engineering field. If you obtain your degree outside of the U.S., obtain a U.S. degree evaluation from a degree-evaluation company. A degree equivalent to a U.S. degree is necessary to work as a civil engineer in the U.S.

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  Join the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). This trade association can help you network with other civil engineers. Networking is an effective tool to finding jobs not yet advertised or finding a fitting employer.

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  Conduct job searches. There are job search engines specific to the civil-engineering community. ASCE also has a job search engine on its website. Knowing what opportunities are available helps in getting a job in civil engineering. Aim for jobs in an area of specialty. Specialties in civil engineering are structural, water resources, construction, transportation, geotechnical, and urban planning.

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  Be willing to learn continuously. Civil engineers must constantly learn new skills and refine their old skills. Keeping abreast of changes in the field will help you to get a job in civil engineering in the United States.