Civil Engineer vs Structural Engineer vs PE: What's the Difference?

Civil Engineer vs Structural Engineer vs PE: What's the Difference?

Many project owners are unsure whether they need a civil engineer, structural engineer, or licensed professional engineer. These terms are related, but they do not always mean the same thing.

What Is a Civil Engineer?

A civil engineer works on infrastructure, land development, grading, drainage, roads, utilities, site plans, stormwater systems, and public works. You may need a civil engineer for site development, grading plans, drainage design, roadway design, utility layouts, subdivision plans, stormwater management, and land development permits.

What Is a Structural Engineer?

A structural engineer focuses on the strength and stability of buildings, bridges, towers, walls, foundations, framing, and load-bearing systems. You may need a structural engineer for foundation design, beam sizing, load-bearing wall review, structural inspections, building additions, retaining walls, roof support, and damage assessments.

What Is a PE?

A PE, or professional engineer, is an engineer licensed by a state board. A civil engineer or structural engineer may also be a PE if they have met licensing requirements. The term PE refers to licensure, not a specific discipline.

Which One Do You Need?

You may need a civil engineer for site and land development work, a structural engineer for building strength and stability, and a licensed PE when stamped drawings or certified engineering documents are required. For complex projects, you may need more than one type of engineer.

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