When I was asked what a Civil Designer does, I didn’t have an answer straight away.. So I asked my colleagues, and they looked at me with the same curiosity I had, why was this so tough to answer? So I asked Google, and that answer just created even more confusion. So here I am trying to figure out how to answer this question.
To try to figure this out, I started by looking at my tasks on a typical day. I start the day off with a coffee – that’s not helpful. Then I check my emails – People are waiting for tasks such as a stormwater report, I’m going through my 3D models, and Luke has gotten back to me with a review of my latest drawings. This seems like a starting point to explain what a Civil Designer does!
I am in the process of analysing the impact of a new development on an existing stormwater network for a client. I have to use engineering standards to calculate and simulate how much runoff will be generated from the new development and how it interacts with the existing underground stormwater pipe network. I have finished the calculations and am now writing a report detailing what I have done, the results, and my recommendations for how it can be improved.
I am also part of a project delivery team which is designing an upgrade for an urban road. So far, we have developed a basic model and identified some potential conflicts between underground services and bridge footings. The structural engineers and service providers have provided a few options which could solve the issue, but I have to test the solutions in my 3d model and recommend a preferred solution.
We’ve identified a high number of crashes on an existing curve and are now looking at any way to make the site safer. So far I have conducted a site visit to inspect the condition of the road and surroundings and taken measurements of roadside hazards. I have to review crash information, compare the existing infrastructure to current standards and identify and evaluate treatment options. I also have to write a technical memo to detail my analysis and findings.
Luke has finished his review of my footpath design. This is a simple job, so I have taken on the roles of project manager, designer and drafter. Even for a simple job, we need additional checks to try to minimise mistakes, identify opportunities to create better infrastructure and ensure design and drafting standards have been adhered to. I now have to implement Luke’s comments and submit the design to the client.
After reviewing my emails, I have prioritised and organised my time for the day and I think I have started narrowing down what a Civil Designer does. I also realised how much of my time I spend at the computer and how many different computer programs I use.
My Programs:
– Outlook: for emails and communications
– 12d Synergy: document and file management
– BlueBeam: viewing reviewed pdf plans
– 12d: 3d infrastructure modelling
– AutoCad: to present the 3d model as readable 2d plans (drafting)
– BlueBeam: viewing pdf plans
The other aspect of my role that stands out is the amount of communication and collaboration we do. My position with the project delivery team really highlights this. I play a pivotal role in collating the designs of specialist engineers, architects, and designers, communicating conflicts and impacts of their designs and working to achieve an optimal solution for the client. Without me, these conflicts may have been discovered during construction which leads to delays, and significant costs for the client.
After reviewing my emails and reflecting on my tasks, I think I have figured out how to answer the question: What does a Civil Designer Do?
We apply engineering standards to an infrastructure idea using design tools to ensure an optimal outcome; we communicate our analysis through reports and drawings to constructors and decision makers; we collaborate with other professionals and resolve their infrastructure problems.
Essentially we make sure infrastructure works.
