CIVIL ENGINEERING PLACEMENTS

Can you do a placement in civil engineering?

Absolutely! That’s exactly why we put this guide together. There’s never been a better time to kick-start a career in civil engineering, but with a record number of applicants per graduate role, standing out is essential.

A civil engineering degree is a fantastic achievement, but it’s only part of the picture. To really set yourself apart, gaining hands-on experience is key, and that’s where a placement comes in.

A civil engineering placement is typically a full-time job lasting anywhere from a few months to a year. You’ll get paid, work on real projects, and develop essential skills that employers value. It’s a brilliant way to build your CV, grow your professional network, and gain a clearer idea of which area of civil engineering you’d like to pursue.

Why should I do a civil engineering placement?

Civil engineers are in high demand, and there’s never been a better time to gain experience in the field. 

With the government investing heavily in infrastructure and transport projects across the UK, from high-speed rail to flood defence systems and sustainable housing developments, opportunities are growing fast. 

Doing a placement gives you the chance to be part of real projects that shape the world around us. Not only will you build vital technical and teamwork skills, but you’ll also get a clearer sense of what area of civil engineering excites you most, whether it's structural, environmental, geotechnical, or transport engineering. 

Plus, with employers actively seeking graduates who already have practical experience, a placement can give you a major advantage when it comes to landing your first job.

Here’s what a placement student said about their time with Mott MacDonald:

What happens during a civil engineering placement?

While this will vary depending on your employer and what their business needs are, you can usually expect:

• Site work. This will include supporting construction teams, surveying and setting out using tools like GPS. You could also be monitoring health and safety.

• Design and planning. You will be trained up in CAD software (like Civil 3D and AutoCAD) to draft technical drawings or modify existing plans. You could also be assisting with calculations and reviewing engineering plans, and learning how different teams collaborate. 

• Project management support. This includes helping with scheduling and tracking progress to ensure timelines and budgets are met. Attending site meetings to learn about the decision-making process. Also, documenting work like progress reports, quality checks or regulatory compliance notes. 

• Materials Testing and Analysis. You might work in labs or on-site to test soil, concrete, steel, or other materials to ensure they meet safety and quality standards.

Here’s what another placement student said about their time with Mott MacDonald:

How much do civil engineering students earn during their placement?

While it will depend on where you are located and what company you are working for, on average, a civil engineering placement will pay you £20,000 a year. You’ll also receive company benefits, such as paid holidays and sick leave. 

However, it’s important to note that this is only the beginning. By doing a civil engineering placement, you will have so much experience that helps separate you from your competition when you are looking for a graduate job. That extra years' worth of experience goes a long way in helping you achieve a healthy, future salary.

How to apply

There’s a couple of things you can do to give yourself the best possible chance:

• Apply early. Most placements go live in September-November, and employers may close applications before the deadline if they receive too many, so don’t miss out!

• Do your research. You’ll be spending a whole year with the company that hires you, so it’s more important than ever to properly research them before applying.

• Be yourself. Employers look for people they can see themselves working with long-term, so always bring your authentic self to interviews and assessment centres. 

Make sure your CV and cover letter are ready as well, they are usually asked for in the first stage. Good luck!