An airport engineer assists in the planning, design, and construction of public and private airport facilities. He or she creates blueprints and computerized simulations to fine-tune design concepts before overseeing ongoing construction projects. Airport engineering is a broad field that includes civil, electrical, and transportation engineering, as well as architecture and project management. Although an airport engineer may specialize in one area, such as laying out plans for runways and hangars, many professionals oversee all aspects of design and construction.
An engineer reviews budget statistics and topographical measurements provided by land surveyors before creating the initial blueprints for a new airport. He or she then draws several rough sketches of each component, such as runways, towers, terminals, passenger lounges, check-in areas, and parking structures. To create detailed three-dimensional blueprints and models, most airport engineers use computer-aided drafting (CAD) programs. Simulators are used to test CAD designs to ensure that they are safe, effective, and efficient.
Construction can begin once an airport engineer’s plans have been finalized and approved by the responsible government agency. Most airport engineers are hands-on during construction, collaborating with site supervisors to ensure that everything is built according to plan. By making quick decisions, an engineer inspects progress and addresses any problems or design flaws. When the construction is finished, the engineer personally inspects all areas to ensure they were built safely.
Airports are large, expensive structures that are built to last for decades. When wear-and-tear and outdated technology compromise an airport’s quality and safety, an engineer is usually consulted before renovation decisions are made. In order to equip older airports with the most efficient systems, an airport engineer must keep up with the latest advances in transportation engineering technology. Larger waiting areas, new passenger flight information centers, or cutting-edge control tower equipment are all possibilities.
A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering is usually required to work as an airport engineer. After earning a degree, an individual can begin building his or her credentials by taking the first of a two-part professional engineer exam. After that, he or she can apply to private contracting firms, engineering consulting firms, and regional and national government agencies. For several years, entry-level engineers typically work as assistants to gain experience and establish professional relationships in the field. After four to five years of experience, a worker can sit for the second professional engineer exam and start looking for senior airport engineer jobs.