Outsourcing Civil Engineering Services

Civil engineering services involve designing and constructing infrastructure that is essential for the functioning of society. These services can be broadly categorized into two types - those responsible for design and consultation and those responsible for on-site construction supervision. The success of any infrastructure project relies on the efficient collaboration between these two types of civil engineers. Projects worked on by civil engineers include bridges, airports, roads, mines, ports, factories, harbors, irrigation systems, sewerage and water supply systems.

There are several sub-disciplines of civil engineering, including site, coastal, construction, earthquake, environmental, forensic, geotechnical, material science, structural, transportation, urban or municipal, and water resources engineering. Though not required to specialize in any sub-discipline, construction and engineering companies may seek civil engineers with experience in specific areas depending on project requirements.

The global civil engineering market has been growing rapidly, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.7% from 2021 to 2028¹. Construction and engineering companies must find ways to reduce employment costs without compromising quality to keep up with this growth. One solution is to outsource civil engineering services.

The Benefits of Outsourcing Civil Engineers

Outsourcing civil engineers to offshore locations is a cost-effective way to complete many repetitive and time-consuming drafting tasks. By hiring offshore civil engineers, companies can save up to 70% compared to hiring locally. Moreover, outsourcing routine tasks to an offshore team can increase productivity levels within construction and engineering services, allowing onshore teams to focus on higher-value work. This additional capacity can help companies grow their business sustainably.

Qualifications and Skills for Successful Civil Engineers

A thorough understanding of science, including physics, chemistry, biology, and computer science, is fundamental to success in civil engineering roles. Civil engineers must also have a good understanding of mathematical principles such as algebra, calculus, trigonometry, geometry, and statistics. They must possess excellent communication skills to collaborate with various stakeholders.

Civil engineers must hold a degree or certificate in civil engineering. Some may choose to specialize in specific areas such as transportation, structural, environmental, or geotechnical. There are three levels of experience in civil engineering: graduate or junior, intermediate, and senior.

Tools and Systems for Successful Civil Engineers

Civil engineers rely heavily on computer systems and surveying equipment to design and manage projects. They may use surveying tools, tools for testing concrete, sand, soil, or water quality, highway construction tools, and metrics. The tools required may vary depending on the project they are working on.

Tips for Employing Civil Engineers

When outsourcing civil engineering services, it is essential to ensure that the offshore team is familiar with the systems and software used by the onshore team. Hiring an offshore team member with experience working on similar project sizes can help ensure effective communication and understanding of timelines and expectations. Companies can recruit as many civil engineers as needed, including senior civil engineers or project managers to manage offshore teams. A team lead can help streamline communication and project updates.