Applying for jobs listed in trade magazines is a common way to land a job as an offshore structural engineer.
To become an offshore structural engineer, you must first earn a degree in civil engineering. A bachelor’s degree is the minimum level of education required to be hired for the position, but in some organizations a master’s or doctorate is preferred. Additionally, structural engineering training is required in order to successfully perform the job once hired. Jobs are available from the government, through oil companies, and with other companies completing offshore projects that involve the construction and maintenance of underwater structures. Once you meet the necessary requirements, you can start applying to companies to officially become an offshore structural engineer.
A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering is the foundation for a career in offshore structural engineering. Look for a program with a structural engineering concentration within the civil engineering department to learn the information needed to become an offshore structural engineer. You will take basic science and math classes, as well as specific courses in the design, fabrication, and operation of structures. The degree typically takes four to five years to complete and will allow you to take the licensing tests, if a license is required in the area of the world in which you will be working professionally.
If you’re looking to fast-track your career, consider earning a master’s or doctorate in structural engineering. This gives you more opportunities to get hired for jobs, gives you additional knowledge and experience, and leads to faster promotion after employment. Certain positions, especially in management or as a supervisor, require employees to have an advanced degree.
Once you complete your educational goals, you can start applying for jobs to become an offshore structural engineer. Consider using structural engineering association job postings to find available openings around the world. Most applications require you to submit a cover letter, resume, and a list of professional references. An interview will be held if the employer considers you a suitable candidate for the position.
Once you’ve been hired to become an offshore structural engineer, you should expect to spend some time in on-the-job training to become proficient in the field. People are usually trained by other people who know what it takes to become an offshore structural engineer as they have spent a lot of time working in the field. Continuing education is a part of many positions because you need to keep up with the newest technologies and techniques taking place in offshore structural engineering.