The growing demand for high accuracy in the design and construction of a project requires students to spend more time in different design electives than in the field. Students wishing to pursue consulting should aim for at least a masters degree in their sub-discipline as credibility is often the indication of success. New consultants typically begin work in a consulting department before they begin leading others. Payment varies from lump-sum to by the hour depending on the project. The annual income of a civil engineering consultant, however, is usually high.
Most work takes place at the university level.
While the average salary of a government employee is lower than an engineer in the private sector, the benefits provided level the playing field. The role of a government engineer stretches from city engineers to F.E.M.A. specialists. Students may gain knowledge working for a civil engineering firm as an intern. Comprehensive packages are usually offered by companies to marketable students who apply. An internship only lasts one or two semesters while the co-op rotates one semester of work with one semester of school.