Civil Engineer vs. Software Engineer: What Are the Differences?

There are many different types of engineers, each with their own unique skills and responsibilities. Two common engineering roles are that of a civil engineer and a software engineer. Though both positions require a high level of education and training, there are several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between civil engineering and software engineering, and we provide additional engineering professions you may be interested in pursuing.

What is a Civil Engineer?

Civil Engineers are responsible for the design and construction of public and private infrastructure projects, such as bridges, roads, tunnels, water treatment plants and buildings. They work with other professionals, such as architects, to create plans and specifications for these projects. They also oversee the construction process to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget and up to code. Once the project is completed, Civil Engineers may also be responsible for its maintenance.

What is a Software Engineer?

Software Engineers design, develop and test software programs. They work with other engineers and programmers to create applications that solve specific problems. They also collaborate with project managers to ensure that software meets all requirements and is completed on time. Software Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. They must be able to understand complex technical problems and have strong analytical and problem-solving skills. They must also be able to effectively communicate their ideas to others.

Civil Engineer vs. Software Engineer

Here are the main differences between a civil engineer and a software engineer.

Job Duties

Both civil engineers and software engineers have varied job duties. Civil engineers often perform research, design projects and oversee construction projects. Software engineers may conduct research, develop new programs or applications and test products before releasing them for public use. Professionals in both careers may also supervise employees, manage budgets and maintain project records.

Civil engineers typically work with teams to complete projects on time and within budget. They often collaborate with architects, surveyors, construction managers and other professionals. Software engineers usually work alone in offices, cubicles or rooms with computers. However, they do communicate with colleagues via email, text messages and phone calls to discuss projects.

Job Requirements

Civil engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, although some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree. These programs usually take four years to complete and include coursework in topics like mathematics, physics and computer science. Some civil engineering programs also require students to complete an internship before they can graduate.

Software engineers often need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, although some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree. These programs typically take four years to complete and include coursework in topics like programming languages, software development and data structures. Many software engineering programs also require students to complete an internship before they can graduate.

Work Environment

Civil engineers and software engineers work in different environments. Civil engineers typically work outdoors, often on construction sites or other locations where they can observe the land and its features. They may also work in offices to complete paperwork and communicate with clients. Software engineers usually work in an office environment, but some may travel to client sites to install programs and ensure that their products are working properly.

Skills

Both civil engineers and software engineers use problem-solving skills in their jobs. For civil engineers, they typically design products that will solve a problem or address a need facing individuals, families and business owners. For software engineers, one of their primary duties is responding to calls from customers about issues with their software systems.

A civil engineer needs technical skills to perform their job, including circuit design, advanced mathematics, linear systems and analysis and electrical schematics. A software engineer also needs technical knowledge, but they need to know more basic information about how software systems work. Both of these professionals need to have the ability to follow safety protocols because they are often working with dangerous materials.

While a civil engineer uses communication skills when they are creating reports of their research, corresponding with other engineers and colleagues and developing blueprints for their products, they are not necessarily going to be interacting with customers directly. A software engineer is going to need interpersonal skills because they will most likely be interacting with people on a daily basis while they assist customers with solving software issues.

Salary

Civil engineers earn an average salary of $92,614 per year, while software engineers earn an average salary of $106,619 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the size of the company you work for, your location and your level of experience.