Structural Engineer

Structural engineers are highly skilled and imaginative professionals who design the strength and durability of structures, such as bridges and buildings. They play a crucial role in creating a wide range of structures, from homes and office blocks to hospitals and flood defences. Their expertise ensures that buildings are not only safe and robust, but also functional, and sometimes, even beautiful!

Structural engineers meticulously plan structures to withstand floods, strong winds, and, in certain parts of the world, earthquakes. They usually work within multi-disciplinary teams, working alongside other professionals like architects, quantity surveyors, and fellow engineers. Increasingly, structural engineers are designing more sustainable structures, such as buildings that utilise fewer materials and employ more environmentally friendly construction methods.

According to the Institution of Structural Engineers, the average UK starting salary for a structural engineer is around £26,000 per year. You could earn up to £45,000 per year after five years of employment, over £45,000 per year as a Chartered Member of the Institution of Structural Engineers and over £65,000 per year as a Technical Director.

Useful subjects to study to become a structural engineer include maths, English, physics, art, design and geography.

There are several routes that you could follow to become a structural engineer. With each one you will ultimately be required to study for a degree.

You could start as a civil or construction engineering technician and study for a degree qualification while you're working. Some structural engineers choose to work and study through a degree apprenticeship. Others begin their careers by studying towards a relevant degree or postgraduate course such as civil engineering, civil and structural engineering, or architectural engineering.

After completing your studies, you will gain hands-on experience whilst working. You could also undertake further training and eventually, once you have gained enough experience, apply for membership of the Institution of Structural Engineers (IStructE).

To research local education and training opportunities that could lead to a career as a structural engineer, visit our partner website >log on | move on>.

Details of relevant degree courses can be found on the UCAS website.

The Institution of Structural Engineers, what is a structural engineer?

National Careers Service - Structural Engineer

Go Construct - Structural Engineer

Women into Manufacturing & Engineering

Want to know what it's like to work as a structural engineer? Watch the videos in How Did You Get That Job?