Researching potential employers in civil engineering is essential for graduates looking to find the right fit and make a good impression in interviews. A thorough understanding of the company’s role in the industry, whether as a consultant, contractor, or client, will not only help tailor your applications but also enable you to assess whether it aligns with your career goals. Here’s a guide for how to research civil engineering companies, focusing on resources like LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and social media.
1. Understanding Company Roles: Consultants, Contractors, and Clients
Civil engineering firms can broadly be divided into consultants, contractors, and clients, each with distinct responsibilities and work environments:
- Consultants: These companies focus on planning, design, and analysis. As a graduate, if you’re interested in technical or advisory work, look for firms that provide consulting services. Popular consultants in the UK include Arup, WSP, and AECOM.
- Contractors: Contractors handle the hands-on construction of projects, whether buildings, roads, or utilities. Graduates interested in site work and project management might prefer contractors like Kier, Balfour Beatty, or Skanska.
- Clients: Clients are often the owners or operators of projects, such as government departments or private developers. Working with clients involves more oversight and coordination across the project lifecycle. Examples include Transport for London (TfL) and Network Rail.
Knowing which type of company you want to work for can guide your research and application strategy.
2. Connect with Current Employees and Attend Career Events
One of the best ways to gain insights into a company is to speak with people who work there. Networking with current employees on LinkedIn or attending industry events, such as career fairs, workshops, or job shows, provides valuable perspectives on company culture, work environment, and day-to-day responsibilities. Engaging with professionals at these events also gives you the chance to ask specific questions and showcase your genuine interest in the field. Many civil engineering companies hold information sessions and industry talks that can help you connect directly with hiring managers, engineers, and recruiters. This kind of interaction not only helps you understand the company’s operations and expectations but also leaves a positive impression that could benefit your application.
3. Use LinkedIn for Insights
LinkedIn is invaluable for civil engineering graduates researching potential employers. It allows you to:
- Learn About Company Culture and Projects: By following company pages, you can see their latest projects, updates, and culture posts. Reviewing posts and employee updates can reveal insights into the day-to-day activities and values of the company.
- Connect with Employees: Reaching out to recent graduates or employees in similar roles can give you an insider’s perspective. When contacting professionals, be polite and express genuine interest in their experiences.
- Explore Organisational Structure: Many companies on LinkedIn have org charts that outline departments and roles. This structure can help you understand the company hierarchy and where you might fit in as a new graduate.
4. Research on Glassdoor for Employee Reviews
Glassdoor is an excellent tool for researching salaries, interview experiences, and company reviews. For civil engineering companies, you can:
- Read Reviews and Company Ratings: Check what employees say about working conditions, management, and growth opportunities. Keep in mind that reviews vary, so look for common themes.
- Understand Interview Processes: Glassdoor often has interview feedback, including typical questions and the structure of the hiring process. Preparing based on real interview insights can help you feel confident and prepared.
- Check Salary Ranges and Benefits: Glassdoor’s salary data can provide benchmarks for what to expect as an entry-level engineer. Knowing average salaries helps you negotiate better and understand industry standards.
5. Use Social Media to Get a Feel for Company Culture
Civil engineering companies often use social media platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook to showcase their projects, community initiatives, and company culture.
- Follow Project Updates and Innovations: Posts often highlight recent projects and innovations, which can be valuable talking points in your application or interview.
- Engage with Content: Liking or commenting on posts (when appropriate) can show your enthusiasm for the company and keep you updated on company news.
6. Analyse the Company Website
The company website is a primary source of information, offering insight into the organisation’s values, projects, and goals. Look for sections on:
- Current Projects: Explore their “Projects” or “Portfolio” section to learn about past and ongoing projects. This information can help you understand their specialisations and which industries they work in, such as transport, energy, or construction.
- About Us: Learn about the company’s mission, vision, and values. This knowledge helps you assess whether you’d fit into their culture and allows you to align your answers with their values during interviews.
- Leadership and Organisation Structure: The “Leadership” or “Our Team” section often lists key executives and department heads, helping you understand the structure and decision-makers.
7. Review the Company’s Organisational Chart
Many large civil engineering companies publish an org chart or at least some form of team structure on LinkedIn or the company website. Understanding this layout is useful for several reasons:
- Identify Potential Supervisors and Mentors: See who’s in charge of departments or projects related to your field. This insight can help you understand who you might report to and whom to approach with specific questions.
- Understand Reporting Lines: Knowing the hierarchy can help you anticipate team dynamics, especially if you’re interested in growing into leadership roles.
8. Research the Industries They Operate In
Civil engineering companies often work across various sectors, such as infrastructure, environmental engineering, or urban development. To get a full picture:
- Review Sector-Specific Case Studies: Company websites, LinkedIn, and industry publications like New Civil Engineer or ICE’s website frequently feature case studies. These help you see how the company approaches complex projects within specific industries.
- Consider Industry Trends: Look at industry news to understand challenges, demands, and opportunities within those sectors. For instance, you might find that some companies are expanding into sustainable infrastructure, which could align with your interests in green engineering.
By following these steps, you’ll be equipped with the background knowledge needed to tailor your application, impress in interviews, and choose a company that’s a strong match for your career in civil engineering.