Airfields, roads, bridges, buildings, power plants, docks, and water treatment plants on military bases around the world are continually being built, repaired, and improved. Civil engineers plan, design, and direct the construction of military facilities.
What They Do
Civil engineers in the military perform some or all of the following duties:
- Study the need for roads, airfields, buildings, and other facilities
- Direct surveys of construction areas
- Design construction projects
- Help select contractors to build facilities
- Check construction progress to see that it meets plans
- Plan and direct facility maintenance and modernization
- Plan temporary facilities for use in emergencies
- Keep master plans for military bases up to date
Helpful Attributes
Helpful attributes include:
- Interest in engineering principles and concepts
- Interest in working with mathematical formulas
Training Provided
No initial job training is provided to officers in this occupation. However, advanced courses are offered to support medical service and environmental control building programs.
Work Environment
Civil engineers work in offices when designing projects or reviewing reports. They work outdoors when overseeing survey or construction activities.
Civilian Counterparts
Civilian civil engineers work for engineering firms, construction companies, and government agencies. Some may work for public utilities, railroads, and manufacturing firms. Civilian civil engineers perform duties similar to those performed in the military; however, they often specialize in certain types of projects.
