Ensuring your curriculum vitae effectively showcases your proficiency in structural analysis and design can be a daunting task. Our guide will provide you with clear strategies to highlight your technical skills and project experience, making your application stand out to potential employers.
- Create an attention-grabbing header that integrates keywords and includes all vital information;
- Add strong action verbs and skills in your experience section, and get inspired by real-world professionals;
- List your education and relevant certification to fill in the gaps in your career history;
- Integrate both hard and soft skills all through your CV.
Discover more industry-specific guides to help you apply for any role in the links below:
Structuring and formatting your structural engineer CV for an excellent first impression
The experts' best advice regarding your CV format is to keep it simple and concise. Recruiters assessing your CV are foremost looking out for candidates who match their ideal job profile. Your white space, borders, and margins. You may still be wondering which format you need to export your CV in. We recommend using the PDF one, as, upon being uploaded, it never alters your information or CV design. Before we move on to the actual content of your structural engineer CV, we'd like to remind you about the Applicant Tracker System (or the ATS). The ATS is a software that is sometimes used to initially assess your profile. Here's what you need to keep in mind about the ATS:- All serif and sans-serif fonts (e.g. Rubik, Volkhov, Exo 2 etc.) are ATS-friendly;
- Many candidates invest in Arial and Times New Roman, so avoid these fonts if you want your application to stand out;
- Both single and double column CVs can be read by the ATS, so it's entirely up to you to select your CV design.
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For certain fields, consider including infographics or visual elements to represent skills or achievements, but ensure they are simple, professional, and enhance rather than clutter the information.
The top sections on a structural engineer CV
- Personal Profile details your expertise and goals, enticing recruiters.
- Work Experience showcases relevant projects and responsibilities.
- Education and Qualifications highlight structural engineering credentials.
- Key Skills reflect essential engineering competencies and software proficiencies.
- Professional Memberships display commitment to the field and ongoing learning.
What recruiters value on your CV:
- Highlight relevant engineering qualifications and continuous professional development, including your degree in civil or structural engineering, and any additional certifications such as Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
- Emphasise your proficiency with industry-standard design software like AutoCAD, Revit, STAAD.Pro, and ANSYS, showcasing projects where you've successfully applied these tools.
- Detail your experience with various structural materials and construction methods, focusing on your understanding of their applications and limitations within different engineering projects.
- Include specific examples of projects you've worked on, such as bridges, buildings, or tunnels, and mention your role in the design, analysis, and management of these structures.
- Discuss your ability to comply with building codes and regulations, highlighting any experience you have in liaising with local authorities and stakeholders to gain project approvals.
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How to present your contact details and job keywords in your structural engineer CV header
Located at the top of your structural engineer CV, the header presents recruiters with your key personal information, headline, and professional photo. When creating your CV header, include your:
- Contact details - avoid listing your work email or telephone number and, also, email addresses that sound unprofessional (e.g. koolKittyCat$3@gmail.com is definitely a big no);
- Headline - it should be relevant, concise, and specific to the role you're applying for, integrating keywords and action verbs;
- Photo - instead of including a photograph from your family reunion, select one that shows you in a more professional light. It's also good to note that in some countries (e.g. the UK and US), it's best to avoid photos on your CV as they may serve as bias.
What do other industry professionals include in their CV header? Make sure to check out the next bit of your guide to see real-life examples:
Examples of good CV headlines for structural engineer:
- Chartered Structural Engineer | MEng Civil Engineering | High-Rise Structures Expert | 10 Years' Experience
- Senior Structural Analyst | Project Management Pro | Earthquake Resistant Design Specialist | 15+ Years in Industry
- Graduate Structural Designer | Proficient in BIM and CAD | Scaffold Design Enthusiast | IStructE Cert.
- Principal Structural Consultant | PhD in Structural Dynamics | Infrastructure Renewal Strategist | 20+ Years' Expertise
- Mid-Level Structural Engineer | MSc Structural Engineering | Steelwork Design Aficionado | 5 Years’ Professional Practice
- Lead Structural Engineer | Chartered Member of IStructE | Expert in Retrofitting Heritage Buildings | 12 Years Experience
Your structural engineer CV introduction: selecting between a summary and an objective
structural engineer candidates often wonder how to start writing their resumes. More specifically, how exactly can they use their opening statements to build a connection with recruiters, showcase their relevant skills, and spotlight job alignment. A tricky situation, we know. When crafting you structural engineer CV select between:
- A summary - to show an overview of your career so far, including your most significant achievements.
- An objective - to show a conscise overview of your career dreams and aspirations.
Find out more examples and ultimately, decide which type of opening statement will fit your profile in the next section of our guide:
CV summaries for a structural engineer job:
- Dedicated Structural Engineer with over 12 years of experience in designing resilient infrastructures, including high-rise buildings and bridges. Proficient in using advanced finite element software, and has significantly improved load-bearing efficiency by 18% in previous projects through innovative engineering solutions.
- Resourceful Civil Engineer transitioning into Structural Engineering, bringing 5 years of experience in sustainable urban development. Equipped with a deep understanding of material science and adept at structural optimization, aiming to contribute to complex architectural projects requiring advanced technical knowledge.
- Accomplished Mechanical Engineer refocusing career towards structural engineering, leveraging a strong background in dynamics and materials strength analysis. With over 8 years of experience, aims to address modern engineering challenges in civil constructions by implementing robust design principles attained from the automotive industry.
- Dynamic graduate with a MEng in Structural Engineering from University College London, aspiring to apply theoretical knowledge and fresh perspective to practical challenges. Adept in 3D-modelling software and eager to contribute to impactful infrastructure projects, underscoring a commitment to sustainable and innovative design practices.
- Seeking to embark on a career in Structural Engineering, enthusiastic to develop specialised skills in seismic-resistant techniques and to utilise a solid foundation in physics and mathematics. Committed to lifelong learning and eager to grow within a firm that values cutting-edge solutions to design and building challenges.
How to meet job requirements with your structural engineer CV experience
We've now reached the essence of your actual CV - your experience section. This is the space where you can list your career roles and on-the-job successes. Many candidates tend to underestimate just how much time and effort they should put into writing this CV section. Your experience shouldn't be a random list of your responsibilities, but instead:
- Match the job description with your skills, values, and accomplishments;
- Start each bullet with a strong action verb, followed up with one key skill and your outcome of applying this skill;
- Spotlight parts of your career history that are relevant to the job you're applying for.
Before we move on, make sure to check out some professional CV experience sections.
Best practices for your CV's work experience section
- Analysed structural components for commercial and residential buildings, employing advanced software tools to ensure compliance with relevant codes and safety standards.
- Coordinated with architects and construction teams to integrate structural systems into overall building designs, delivering project solutions within established timelines and budgets.
- Conducted on-site inspections and structural assessments of existing structures for renovation projects, identifying critical areas for reinforcement and providing detailed reports.
- Prepared technical documentation, including structural calculations, drawings, and specifications, ensuring all materials and designs adhered to legislative and industry best practices.
- Led a team of junior engineers and technicians, providing mentorship and overseeing their work to maintain high quality and accuracy in structural analysis and design.
- Utilised Building Information Modelling (BIM) techniques to create detailed 3D models, facilitating better communication and coordination among various disciplines.
- Implemented sustainable design principles in structural engineering projects, optimizing material usage to reduce environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency.
- Stayed abreast of technological advancements in the field of structural engineering, integrating innovative materials and methods to improve design outcomes and operational efficiency.
- Presented findings and progress updates to clients and stakeholders during project meetings, effectively communicating technical information to non-engineering audiences.
- Led the structural analysis and design of a 30-story mixed-use high-rise incorporating sustainable building practices, delivering the project 10% under budget.
- Managed a team of 6 junior engineers and 2 technicians, fostering skill development and leading to the successful deployment of an advanced finite element analysis software across the department.
- Authored and presented a white paper on earthquake-resistant design methodologies at an international engineering conference attended by 500+ industry professionals.
- Oversaw the construction phase of a £20M pedestrian bridge, ensuring structural specifications were upheld and quality standards met, resulting in zero safety incidents throughout the duration of the project.
- Conducted advanced dynamic analyses for structural vibration issues on large-scale machinery foundations, enhancing operational efficiencies by 15%.
- Spearheaded the implementation of Building Information Modelling (BIM) processes, reducing project delivery times by an average of 25% across the company.
- Played a key role in the structural renovation of historic Grade I listed buildings, ensuring compliance with stringent heritage conservation regulations.
- Collaborated with architects to integrate innovative structural solutions that increased floor space by 20% without compromising building integrity.
- Developed and executed a comprehensive risk assessment protocol that decreased project delays by 30%, directly impacting profitability.
- Currently leading the seismic retrofitting project for a government complex, enhancing the structure's resistance to earthquakes by 50%, safeguarding hundreds of employees.
- Directing a cross-functional team to deploy modular construction techniques in a series of residential buildings, accelerating project timelines by 40% whilst maintaining high-quality standards.
- Pioneered the adoption of ultra-high-performance concrete in the construction of a major bridge, reducing maintenance costs by an estimated £1M over the lifespan of the structure.
- Designed and supervised the installation of an innovative glass curtain wall system for a high-profile commercial skyscraper, achieving a LEED Silver certification for sustainability.
- Expertly addressed unique geotechnical challenges during the groundwork phase of a large urban development, minimising the risk of subsidence and maximising land use.
- Implemented cost-saving measures that reduced the overall material expenditure by 12%, without compromising on the structural integrity and design aesthetics.
- Developed bespoke structural solutions for complex geometric façades in collaboration with renowned architects, contributing to the firm's reputation for innovative design.
- Utilised 3D structural simulation to optimise design proposals, ensuring efficient material usage and meeting all regulatory requirements.
- Mentored a multi-disciplinary graduate program, leading to improved project delivery and the cultivation of a talent pool highly proficient in the latest structural design software.
- Utilised progressive collapse analysis to ensure a robust design for a government embassy, meeting top-tier security standards and accommodating anti-terrorism considerations.
- Orchestrated a research project into the use of carbon-fiber composites in reinforced concrete, yielding a 25% increase in tensile strength for tested elements.
- Actively engaged with key stakeholders throughout project lifecycles, resulting in consistently met deadlines and increased client satisfaction by 18%.
- Directed the development of an experimental lightweight floor system that provides a 20% reduction in material weight while sustaining high-load capacities.
- Successfully navigated the complexities of cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction for residential buildings, setting a precedent for sustainable practices in the industry.
- Played a pivotal role in creating a detailed structural health monitoring plan for critical infrastructures, enhancing longevity and reducing unforeseen repair costs.
How to ensure your structural engineer CV stands out when you have no experience
This part of our step-by-step guide will help you substitute your experience section by helping you spotlight your skill set. First off, your ability to land your first job will depend on the time you take to assess precisely how you match the job requirements. Whether that's via your relevant education and courses, skill set, or any potential extracurricular activities. Next:
- Systematise your CV so that it spotlights your most relevant experience (whether that's your education or volunteer work) towards the top;
- Focus recruiters' attention to your transferrable skill set and in particular how your personality would be the perfect fit for the role;
- Consider how your current background has helped you build your technological understanding - whether you've created projects in your free time or as part of your uni degree;
- Ensure you've expanded on your teamwork capabilities with any relevant internships, part-time roles, or projects you've participated in the past.
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PRO TIP
If you have experience in diverse fields, highlight how this has broadened your perspective and skill set, making you a more versatile candidate.
Hard skills and soft skills to showcase your unique skill set on your structural engineer CV
Did you know that your CV will mostly likely be assessed by recruiters based on skill alignment? And that means that the way you feature your key skills across different CV sections will play a crucial role in landing you that first interview. We recommend you add your:
- technical capabilities or hard skills in your CV experience, certificates, projects, etc. Use your past accomplishments to prove your technical capabilities. List up to a dozen different software or hardware in your dedicated skills section to match the job keywords;
- personal and communication skills or soft skills in your CV strengths, achievements, summary/ objective, etc. Soft skills are a bit more difficult to prove. How do you define your aptitude in active listening? So, instead of just listing the skill name, include a tangible metric to show your success.
On a final note, when you're in a hurry to create your profile, you may misspell a particular technology or soft skill. That's why we suggest you copy and paste the particular skill name (or keyword), directly from the job advert. This would also help you to pass any initial Applicant Tracker System (ATS) tests.
Top skills for your structural engineer CV:
Structural analysis
Structural design
Knowledge of building codes and standards
Proficiency with structural analysis software (e.g., SAP2000, ETABS, STAAD.Pro)
Reinforced concrete design
Steel structure design
Finite element analysis
Seismic design and analysis
Foundation design
Understanding of construction methods
Problem-solving
Critical thinking
Attention to detail
Communication skills
Time management
Project management
Teamwork and collaboration
Adaptability
Leadership abilities
Continuous learning
PRO TIP
Focus on describing skills in the context of the outcomes they’ve helped you achieve, linking them directly to tangible results or successes in your career.
CV education and certificates: your academic background as proof of your skill set
A common misconception about your structural engineer CV education is that you only need it, if you have less professional experience. That is completely false. The CV education section serves to back up your technical (and sometimes personal) capabilities, fill in gaps in your work history, and show you have the initial industry background and know-how. When creating your education section:
- List your degrees in the reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent (and relevant) ones first;
- Include your degree and university names, start and graduation dates. It's optional to also denote you received a "First-Class Honours" for diplomas that are more relevant to the role;
- Curate your relevant university coursework, projects, or thesis work if you happen to have less professional expertise and need to integrate more job keywords and skills.
Your professional qualifications don't need to stop at your academic background. It's advisable to also select up to three of your most noteworthy (and relevant) industry certificates and feature them in a dedicated section. Once more, include the certificate name, the institution that issued it out, and the date you obtained it on. You could feature both hard skills and soft skills certificates, as in the examples below:
PRO TIP
If you have received professional endorsements or recommendations for certain skills, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, mention these to add credibility.
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Key takeaways
Here are five things you need to remember about writing your structural engineer CV for success:
- Sort your experience based on the reverse chronological order, starting with your most recent career items, to showcase how you've grown your career;
- Include within your CV header your relevant contact details, a headline that could spotlight your unique value, and a photo - if you're applying for roles outside the UK or US;
- Decide to use the CV summary, if you happen to have more professional experience, and an objective, if you want to showcase your career goals;
- Within the experience section, write your bullets using action verbs, skills, and success, instead of just merely listing your on-the-job responsibilities;
- Prove your technical skills, using your education and certificates, and your soft skills, with your achievements and strengths sections.
