Giselle , Burlington asked Barbara Mulkey, Mulkey Engineers & Consultants

AddedSunday, May 1, 2016 at 12:06 AM

Hearing from an old student

Hello Barbara, My name is Giselle and you had answered a question for me a few years ago, "Do structural engineers often work internationally? Hello Barbara, I am currently a second year civil engineering student, and I am hoping to choose structural engineering for my third year of studies. I am having my doubts if structural engineering is the right choice for me. I had thought about going into architecture but I thought structural engineering would give me a broader perspective and more opportunities. What i want most is to travel for work, and see the world while working on different international projects. Can this be done as a structural engineer and what kind of jobs should I be looking to pursue if I want to travel? posted by Giselle, Burlington on January 13, 2014" So I am happy to say I have completed my degree in Civil Engineering a few days ago, and now I am on the job hunt. I have still not been able to find a career that will allow me to travel. From my past summer work experiences I have found that I like working on both the contractor side and seeing the project come to life, as well as on the consultant side with design. Do you have any idea what kind of jobs would allow me to travel internationally for work with a civil engineering degree? Thank you, Giselle
  • Barbara Mulkey , Mulkey Engineers & Consultants
    Answered Sunday, May 1, 2016 at 12:06 AM

    First of all, congratulations on your graduation!

    My suggestion would be that you focus your job search on the construction side if you desire travel. While designs can be done from locations far away from a projects, the construction phase requires that construction phase personnel be on the job. I also suggest that you focus your  job search on larger contractors - do your research and find out what contractors work globally. Also, if you have skills in multiple languages, be sure to highlight that on your resume. Make sure that your resume expresses your willingness to travel and relocate frequently. 

    Good luck and I hope this helps,

    Barbara Mulkey