Structural Engineering is a part of Civil Engineering that deals with the structural integrity and strength of a building or the structure. While constructing a structure, you need to look after key parameters like materials, design, and stability. You don’t want the building/structure to crumple and collapse under applied loads.

To get a job in this field, you need to either have some sort of experience working in the field or have complete technical knowledge of the subject.

To begin with, you should have all your bases covered before your interview as it is one of the most crucial things asked in the interview.

These bases are as follows – 

• Software Base
• Fundamental Base
• Code Base

Software Base – 

One of the most essential things you need to learn about as a structural engineer is software. Software is used for every task in the civil industry like, to design and test projects in the initial stage, getting a visual understanding of a project, and getting a 3-D view of the designs.

There are multiple software used in the civil industry, but the major software providers are – 

• Bentley
• CSI
• MIDAS

i) Bentley

Bentley Systems is a software development company that supports the professional needs of those responsible for creating and managing the world’s infrastructure, including roadways, bridges, airports, skyscrapers, and industrial and power plants, as well as utility networks.

Software developed by Bentley that is used in structural engineering are – 

• STAAD PRO
• STAAD FOUNDATION
• RCDC

ii)CSI

CSI is another enterprise that develops software for the civil industry. Their software is considered to be a versatile program giving a virtual dummy to construct a structure based on user inputs. You can get a complete insight into different parameters of the construction like bents, layout lines, abutments, etc. 

Some of the software developed by CSI is as follows – 

• ETAB
• SAP2000
• SAFE
• CSI-BRIDGE

iii)MIDAS

MIDAS Gen and MIDAS Civil are programs for structural analysis and optimal design in the civil engineering and architecture domains. The program has been developed so that structural analysis and design can be accurately completed within the shortest possible time. The name MIDAS/Gen stands for General structure design.

Some of the software developed by MIDAS are as follows – 

• MIDAS GEN
• MIDAS CIVIL
• MIDAS SDS
• MIDAS SET

Organisations use numerous software for their construction purposes, but which one should you focus on before applying for a job? 

It is important for you as an aspirant to do thorough research about the company you’re applying to as the possibility of you getting questions related to the software they use is highly likely. Practice every software thoroughly before your interview, as it can give you an edge over other applicants.

Construction Codes

Another important thing you should put your focus on to prepare for the interview is different construction codes. These codes are like the set of rules and laws that you need to follow to proceed with any construction project in the world.

The main purpose of building codes is to protect public health, safety, and general welfare as they relate to the construction and occupancy of buildings and structures. The building code becomes the law of a particular jurisdiction when formally enacted by the appropriate governmental or private authority.

To name a few Indian codes – 

• IS 456
• IS 800
• IS 1893
• IS 16700
• IS 875 (PART 1,2,& 3)

There are many international codes as well that you should take into account while working on a project. They are as follows – 

• ACI 318 
• CEB FIP
• UBC 97
• IBC
• NBC
• NBCC
• BS8110
• EC

Finally, the most essential part of getting a job in structural engineering is to have a clear understanding of the basic concepts of Structural Engineering.

You should know about the organisation’s ongoing projects as they might be looking for someone to work on that assignment. Study the company’s history, ongoing projects, and forthcoming plans to prepare yourself for the interview.

“You are the only person that can help yourself!”

Be prepared for every situation, keep things simple & clear, and be confident with your answers. All the best for your future endeavours!