Construction & Built Environment
Construction & Built Environment
Civil Engineer
Design and deliver the infrastructure that keeps Greater Manchester moving, from roads and railways to flood defences.
Civil engineers plan, design and manage the construction of infrastructure such as roads, bridges, railways, tram lines, flood defences, water and drainage systems. Greater Manchester’s ongoing investment in transport, housing and regeneration means civil engineers are needed by consultancies, contractors, local authorities and utility companies across the region.
Salary in Greater Manchester
- Average in Manchester: around £35,000 a year, with most civil engineers earning between £27,000 and £61,000
- UK range: from about £29,000 for new starters up to £63,000 for experienced engineers
- Chartered engineers and those in senior or project management roles can earn more
Career path
- Getting started: civil engineering technician, apprentice or graduate engineer
- Civil engineer: producing designs, assessing risks and managing parts of projects
- Chartered or incorporated engineer: professional registration opens senior roles with more responsibility
- Next steps: senior management on large projects, specialising in a field such as transport or water, research, or engineering consultancy
How to get started
You can start with a foundation degree, HNC or HND in civil engineering, or a Level 6 Civil Engineer degree apprenticeship. Many engineers begin as technicians and qualify on the job. Use the View Courses button to see GMIoT courses linked to this career.
Salary figures are a guide, based on National Careers Service and PayScale data for 2025 to 2026. Actual pay varies by employer, sector and experience.
Key Responsibilities
Work with clients to understand their needs
Analyse data using mathematical modelling
Produce designs and models using computer software
Assess project risks and environmental impacts
Monitor progress at each stage of construction
Lead teams, coordinate work and manage budgets
Skills Needed
- Maths and engineering science
- Design skills and knowledge
- Logical thinking and advanced problem solving
- Attention to detail
- Strong verbal communication
- Confidence with computers and design software
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