Hiring a qualified civil engineer is an important step for any construction or development project in both the private and public sectors. Here are three things you need to know about hiring an engineer.
1. Look for One That Provides the Service You Need
First, you need to find engineers who provide the civil engineering services you need. Depending on the project, you may need an engineer to perform one function or several, including wall check surveys, house stakeouts, stormwater management design, site and grading planning or feasibility studies. Not every engineer provides all engineering services, so ask if the engineer can meet your needs and what types of tools or technology he or she uses to conduct those services.
2. Check the Engineer’s Project History
You want to hire an engineer with a proven record of experience and successful projects. Review his or her portfolio and project history. Request client and customer reviews or testimonials to learn more about how their projects turned out. Talk to the engineer about whether he or she has worked on projects similar to yours in size, scope or style in the past. You may also want to ask about the engineer’s educational and training background and the amount of time he or she has been working as an engineer.
3. Conduct an Interview in Person
Always interview potential engineers in person before agreeing to work with them. Doing so can help you get to know them more easily, begin to develop a rapport with them and determine whether their communication skills are adequate. Communication and collaboration are key components of any successful civil engineering project.
A civil engineer can provide many useful services on your project. He or she can provide design input, perform safety and functionality checks and oversee the project. Make sure he or she also has good problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
