Lia, Hamilton asked Laura Helbling, Aster Brands AddedMonday, January 9, 2017 at 10:15 PM Perks of working as a civil engineer I'm in my final year of high school, and I am trying to decide between Civil and Mechanical Engineering. I am currently leaning towards Civil, but would that mean I would have to travel frequently? I do not mind travelling from time to time, but I do want to be close to friends and family. I also heard that there were design firms, where civil engineers have office jobs, but do they require previous experience of being on-site (which probably means travelling a lot?) ? Would it also require higher education from just a Bachelors? Thanks Related to Choosing a Degree, Civil, International Travel, Internships & Jobs, Preparation for College, Work Environment Reset Sort By Default Laura Helbling , Aster Brands Answered Monday, January 9, 2017 at 10:15 PM Lia, I am a geotechnical engineer, a field of civil engineering that focuses on the mechanics of subsurface soil and rock and the design of structures placed on these materials. I work for a consulting firm that specializes in retaining wall design. We have an office setting, and occasionally have to work in the field inspecting projects. I travel about 10% of the year for job specific purposes, as well as trade shows and other industry events which is typical for most engineering disciplines. I enjoy the time I spend travelling for work purposes because it is not too much of my time and I get to see new places around the country. I currently hold a Bachelor of Civil and Environmental Engineering. I plan on getting my Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, however that is not a requirement for my job. Lastly, all jobs are different, and your concerns could be addressed before employment so you know exactly what your environment would be like. Good luck in your decision! I hope this information was helpful for you. Best regards, Laura Helbling