Structural engineers play a major role in both the construction of new buildings and the conversion of existing buildings. They calculate the statics of buildings, engineering structures and other structural works by determining, for example, how strong the walls and ceilings of a house must be.
Structural engineers have good career prospects. The number of structural engineers subject to social insurance contributions has risen continuously throughout Germany during the last few years. They can work in a wide variety of industries, e.g. in the construction industry, in engineering offices or in the service sector. Approximately 15 per cent of all structural engineers work in public administration. It is also possible to work as a freelancer in a planning office.
Structural engineers deal with a great variety of tasks. They perform static calculations and determine the thickness of walls and ceilings as well as the costs of buildings. They also prepare the proof of stability required according to building regulations law.
To work as a structural engineer, either a Bachelor’s degree in architecture or civil engineering or a completed dual course of study supplemented with training at a company is required. Structural engineers require knowledge in the fields of structural design, architectural statics, materials science and building technology. In addition, they have to be able to perform complex calculations. Expert knowledge in building informatics, business administration and geology as well as in building and architectural law is required as well.
Structural engineers should also have strong communication skills as well as the ability to provide detailed advice and expert support to customers.
Structural engineers receive a salary according to the current collective bargaining agreements. The starting salary amounts to about EUR 45,000 per year, which rises to approximately EUR 55,000 after two years of professional experience, and even further with increasing professional experience and responsibility. Structural engineers who work as divisional managers, for example, have an average annual salary of EUR 78,600.
As a structural engineer, you deal with a broad range of tasks, from performing static calculations for new buildings up to preparing expert opinions for existing buildings, e.g. if interior walls are to be removed as part of a conversion.
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