What is a structural engineer and what do they do?

So, what does a structural engineer do?

It’ll come as no surprise that here at DSA, we believe that structural engineers are the backbone of any safe and durable construction project. Our structural engineers ensure that buildings, bridges, and other structures are strong enough to hold intended weight and can withstand the pressures caused by the environment and human use without compromising safety. Working closely with architects, builders, and property owners we design structures that are both functional and resilient. And it’s not just about new work – we also play a pivotal role in assessing historic properties, making sure that older buildings continue to perform effectively over time.

When and why you need a structural engineer

We like to get involved for many reasons! If you’re planning significant home renovations, maybe adding extra floors, removing structural walls, or extending your property, then it’s essential you engage a structural engineer. Works such as these can fundamentally impact the sturdiness of a building and requires an expert’s input to guarantee stability. If you notice structural issues like cracks in walls, sagging roofs, or uneven floors, get us involved and we can diagnose the problem, determine the root cause, and recommend appropriate repairs.

It’s a different approach, but same rationale, for new construction projects. Whether residential or commercial, DSA’s engineers will help ensure compliance with current regulations, environmental resilience, and structural integrity. Even more critical, if it’s in a disaster-prone area, you’ll find our expertise is indispensable in assessing issues such as flooding.

Finding the right structural engineer

Like most things, a recommendation from a trusted source is the best way to make a reliable selection – and this applies to structural engineers too. Asking around and making your usual online searches and service reviews will help point you in the direction of a reputable structural engineering company – probably DSA! We’ve lots of happy customers that are only too pleased to give you a DSA recommendation.

The costs involved in hiring a structural engineer

DSA understands that you might view a structural engineer as just another expense in what is already probably an expensive project, but it’s not one you can afford to cut corners on – it really is a case of spend now, save later! We tailor our pricing to suit individual projects, considering location and project complexity, which is why we encourage you to get in touch and discuss your needs before we start talking any numbers. Following this we’ll provide a detailed quote to ensure transparency about what is and isn’t included.

Due diligence in structural engineering

We take due diligence very seriously – it’s vital to our work. Our engineers adhere to strict safety protocols and best practices to ensure the integrity of every design. Before starting a project we conduct comprehensive risk assessments to identify potential project vulnerabilities so we can build in any reinforcement measures that are needed, ensuring compliance with building codes and safety regulations all non-negotiable. Regular inspections and ongoing evaluations are part of our commitment to long-term stability and safety. Our experience has shown that if you neglect due diligence then catastrophic failures, legal repercussions, and financial losses are likely to follow—risks that DSA can otherwise help you to avoid.

Essential tools and resources for structural engineers

We use the latest tools and resources to deliver exceptional results, for example, structural analysis software such as TEKLA, to enable precise load and stress calculations. Tools like this assist in accurate design and we use 3D modelling software like AutoCAD and Revit to visualise and refine designs before implementation. Ensuring compliance to the various building codes and standards set by professional bodies is also much more than a box-ticking exercise – it’s how we deliver the highest safety levels.

We’re a social bunch too. Platforms like LinkedIn and industry-specific directories help us stay connected with clients and peers, to set and follow trends in the world of structural engineering.

Common challenges faced by structural engineers

We may appear to seamlessly navigate the daily complexities of structural engineering with ease – but we all know making things look easy demands the highest skill. We’d say one of the biggest challenges we often face is balancing safety with cost-effectiveness. We understand clients want value for money which means budget-friendly solutions without compromising structural integrity – and this is what we always aim to achieve.

Structural engineering is a fast-paced industry with constant evolution and innovation, which means endless building codes, materials and influences to incorporate into every project. DSA are great at collaborating with architects, contractors, and regulatory bodies to ensure seamless project execution and a strong team ethic, even when facing design changes or unexpected obstacles.

Steps to becoming a structural engineer

Interested in becoming a structural engineer? Who can blame you! DSA are big on nurturing the next generation of structural engineers and always welcome contact from potential or experienced civil or structural engineers. The journey often begins with an apprenticeship or degree in civil or structural engineering from an accredited institution and is helped by practical experience gained through apprenticeships or under the mentorship of qualified engineers. Once in the role, continuous learning is essential to stay abreast of evolving building codes and technologies. We also encourage joining professional organisations, attending industry conferences, and networking to advance in this dynamic field.

Tips for aspiring structural engineers

Commitment and passion is key to achieving success as a structural engineer because the landscape never stands still and demands a dynamic project approach. At DSA, we advise aspiring engineers to master industry-standard software used for design and calculations, whilst staying up to date with building codes and construction techniques, vital for compliance and safety. Sometimes it’s about who you know, so networking through conferences, industry groups, and professional connections can lead to valuable career and business opportunities. Gaining hands-on experience through internships and mentorship programs provides practical insights into real-world structural challenges can also be invaluable.

Salary expectations for structural engineers

There is scope to earn good money as a competent structural engineer with an entry-level engineer typically earning between £25,000 and £45,000 per year. Depending on position, experience, specialism, scale and complexity of project, this can rise significantly. As in most roles, advanced certifications and market demand can significantly influence earning potential. For example, engineers working on large-scale projects or in high-demand sectors like transportation, infrastructure and renewable energy tend to command higher salaries.

Conclusion

At DSA, we are passionate about the critical role structural engineers play in ensuring the safety and durability of our built environment – we call it engineering for life. We’re committed to delivering excellence and fostering growth in the structural engineering field. Whether you’re looking for expert guidance for your next project or you are considering a career in structural engineering, we hope you’ve found our feature helpful in understanding the responsibilities, costs, and qualifications involved.