A monitoring engineer looks over existing systems and structures and determines when they need to be updated, modified, or replaced. Construction firms, information technology (IT) firms, and energy conglomerates are just a few of the companies that hire people for these positions. Someone working as a monitoring engineer must have completed an undergraduate degree program in civil, electrical, or mechanical engineering, or a related field, as with most engineering jobs. Many employers prefer to hire people who have also completed a postgraduate degree program in a related field.
A monitoring engineer working for a construction or real estate management firm must inspect properties that are being built or have already been built on a regular basis to ensure that they are structurally sound. If defects are discovered, such as concrete rot, sinking foundations, or other problems, the monitoring engineer must devise a plan to correct the problem. These people usually use computer models and mathematical calculations to figure out how big the problem is and how long it will take for it to get to a critical stage. If the damage is too severe to repair, the engineer may recommend replacing parts of the structure or even demolishing it.
Monitoring engineers work for IT companies, and they’re often in charge of overseeing the installation of new network systems. Many companies replace hardware, software, and in-house systems in stages to avoid widespread disruption, and the engineer is responsible for developing a suitable timetable for the changes and ensuring that the installation goes smoothly. If problems arise, this person will need to collaborate with computer technicians to find a solution. The monitoring engineer is in charge of maintaining and installing upgrades once a new system has been installed.
Oil companies, hydroelectric plant operators, and companies that own wind turbines all use monitoring agents to ensure that dams, oil rigs, and other structures remain structurally sound. Because many of these structures are located at sea, the monitor must evaluate the impact of hurricanes, cyclones, high winds, and other weather-related events on a regular basis. Many countries have laws requiring engineers at nuclear power plants and other facilities to complete weekly or even daily monitoring checklists. If problems are discovered, the engineer may be tasked with finding a temporary solution while a team of structural or civil engineers is tasked with developing a long-term solution.