Aaron Owen

Geotechnical engineers deal with soil and rock-related work on diverse projects. It’s an arm of civil engineering where professionals deal with tasks such as dam designs, waste containment, and flood protection structures using scientific methods and technology. Geotechnical engineering opportunities are springing up worldwide, especially in cities such as California. These cities need their expertise to assess and interpret soil properties and participate in planning and design to ensure their construction projects’ success. 

What will geotechnical jobs look like?

Geotechnical engineering jobs are vital to the success of every construction project. No structure goes up without approval on the state of the ground. Analysis and approval determines whether the site is ideal for the structure and won’t be affected by floods, droughts, or other environmental factors. Their report also informs what materials are suitable for the foundation and design of the structure to ensure its safety for habitation. 

Some of the job responsibilities of a geotechnical engineer include the following:

• Collecting and organizing data 
• Consulting on construction materials sustainability 
• Designing analytical 3D and 2D models
• Examining sites for sensitive projects such as landfills
• Advising clients on best site selections using maps and aerial photos
• Analyzing geological hazard risks and ensuring they’re identified and managed   
• Drilling for and analysis of bedrock and deposits samples 
• Testing construction materials, such as bricks, gravel, sand, and clay 

What will the market look like?

Geotechnical engineering careers are highly competitive, although numerous companies are hiring. The industry is expected to grow by 6.5 percent by 2027 and continue to expand in the following years. This engineering field relies heavily on technology, and experts project the industry will keep getting stronger as scientists develop new technologies. There’s also a growing need for commercial and residential infrastructure globally using innovative construction materials. 

This is promising news for AEC professionals interested in a career in this field. According to salary.com, as of November 2024, the median salary for geotechnical engineers is $81,871 per annum. Engineers in the ninetieth percentile earn as much as $92,117.

How do you get hired? 

There are several ways to land a job as a geotechnical engineer. You can either gain relevant experience and skills or by getting an education in a related field. Here are three suggestions.

1. Get an undergraduate university or college degree in geotechnical engineering or a related course, such as geophysics, mining engineering, geology, or geo-technology. You can also obtain a postgraduate qualification in soil or rock science, hydrogeology, or geotechnical engineering. 

2. Internships and apprenticeships are also used to gain entry into this field. Completing an internship at a reputable Geotech firm can help you get hired by other companies or move higher in the same company. You’ll gain on-the-job experience and learn from working with seasoned professionals.

3. Getting certifications if you have some experience in a similar field, such as civil engineering, can also help you get hired. Examples include the Geotechnical Engineering Specialist Certificate, taking the Geotechnical Engineering exam and obtaining a license. Find all the information you need for other qualifications, such as the Certified Engineering Geologist, Certified Hydrogeologist, and Professional Geologist here. 

You’ll have the advantage if you’ve worked on projects, such as dikes and dams, and have design knowledge using software such as GeoStudio and Plaxis. You can also work as an assistant to or on a team of geotechnical engineers and learn from them.

Working with an engineering staffing agency such as Certis Solutions can help you find the right geotechnical engineering opportunities. We work with an extensive database of job openings to match our applicants with roles that fit their qualifications and skill set. Contact us today to get started. 

Electrical engineering jobs are a respected career choice worldwide. These professionals are responsible for numerous innovative technological developments so it remains an attractive choice for many. However, it’s not unusual to find yourself wondering just how lucrative a career in electrical engineering is.

Electrical engineering in California is in demand

There’s an increasing need for electrical engineers in California. Statistics from May 2023 show it has the highest demand for electrical engineers, followed by Texas and New York. It’s a great time to be an electrical engineer, especially if you’re interested in entry-level positions as a recent graduate or considering becoming an electrical engineer. 

There will be no shortage of jobs for California’s electrical engineers in the next few years. The state is home to Silicon Valley and other tech communities, such as Santa Clara and Sunnyvale, where electrical engineers thrive. These areas have a high demand for electrical engineers and pay more than the average salary in California.

The job outlook for 2024 and beyond

The electrical engineering industry hasn’t been hit with job loss as hard as others in the last few years. More companies are looking to employ electrical engineers for projects that require their expertise. The number of electrical engineers in California is projected to grow by 13.9 percent by 2030, which translates to 3,900 jobs.

The outlook for the coming years is good for those interested in this industry. The hourly median pay for electrical engineers in California is $72.98 in 2024, significantly higher than the national average.

Electrical engineering jobs: FAQ guide

Is it a good career choice?

Electrical engineering is considered a good career choice since there’s high demand for it. It offers a diverse range of specializations, and you can work in numerous sectors. The average annual pay for an electrical engineer is also good, with decent growth opportunities. 

What skills are essential for electrical engineering jobs?

You need to have various skills to excel as an electrical engineer. Some of the most sought-after skills in this industry include:

• Computer skills: almost all electrical engineers work with computers and use various software. You’re expected to be well versed in applications relevant to your field of engineering to do well on the job. It’s also essential to know programming languages, such as Python and C++.
• Communication skills: working well with others is necessary for every work environment. Communicating effectively will help you collaborate with teammates and deliver your best work.
• Problem-solving skills: you need critical thinking and problem-solving skills to identify, analyze, and solve any problems as you test products you develop.

What basic qualifications are needed?

You need an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering or a related field to qualify for a job in engineering. Some related disciplines are electronics engineering and electrical engineering technology. Lacking a degree in these fields doesn’t mean you can’t get a job as an electrical engineer. 

You can opt to increase your qualifications for an electrical engineering job by furthering your education. One way to do this is by getting an advanced degree like a master’s in electrical engineering. You can also take the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam, although it’s not required in every industry. 

What should I include on my resume?

Your resume is the first contact you’ll make with a potential employer, so it’s essential to make it stand out. Your resume should include your name and contact information at the top of the page. It should also have your work experience, educational background, relevant skills, and licenses or certifications.

Where can I apply for electrical engineering jobs?

There are numerous websites where you can find electrical engineering jobs. Job websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are popular. There are also job search engines dedicated to posting engineering jobs only. You may also find an excellent electrical engineering job by signing up with an engineering staffing agency like Certis Solutions.

How do I know if the job is the right fit for me?

Deciding whether a job is right depends on what you consider important. You can start by writing down everything you want in a position and seeing if the job description matches it. You may include salary expectations, job responsibilities, growth opportunities, and work hours. You can rank their importance from high to low priorities. Most jobs won’t have all your requirements, so you might have to choose which one that meets most of your high-priority requirements. 

Benefits of working with an engineering staffing agency

Most electrical engineers will find that securing a good position isn’t always easy, although there are many job prospects. You’ll have no trouble finding a good place if you work with the right team. We advise most job seekers to sign up with and receive guidance from a qualified engineering staffing agency. 

The hiring process is often long and time-consuming. Finding a position with an agency will speed up the application process since they have all your information readily available. Their recruiters will match you with jobs available in their database and provide helpful tips for acing interviews. You’ll have no trouble finding work with their extensive resources of job vacancies in the AEC industry. Certis Solutions is a professional staffing agency that helps AEC professionals find their ideal jobs. Our team of skilled recruiters can help if you want to work as an electrical engineer. With an extensive list of contacts and connections with top engineering firms, we have access to jobs other candidates are not privy to. Contact us today to land your next job.

Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) engineers typically work on building projects where they’re in charge of developing the visual computer model for buildings. They’re part of the larger construction team of architects, electricians, and other construction personnel. Regardless of the project size, it’s essential to have these specialists in charge of each critical aspect of the project to ensure things run smoothly. 

Given their work, it’s important to be well versed in all things VDC engineering before getting into the field. You’ll need knowledge, such as familiarity with software applications, acute attention to detail, and practical understanding of essential skills to create value as a VDC engineer. 

Becoming a VDC engineer: What you need to know

AEC professionals looking to become VDC engineers should know what the job involves and what career requirements are needed. It’s a lucrative field, and according to salary.com, the median pay for a VDC engineer was $86,038 as of November 2024. 

The area is experiencing rapid growth as the job outlook shows a growth rate much higher than the average growth in other industries. Several cities like San Jose, Santa Clara, and Fremont in California are among the highest paying cities for VDC engineers who earn as much as $107,978 a year. 

VDC engineer requirements

Specific requirements must be met to qualify as a VDC engineer. Not only do these qualities show your knowledge in the field, but they also make it easier for employers to hire you.

Education

Most VDC engineer jobs require candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as civil engineering or architecture. To further your skills and make you stand out from the competition, you’ll need to get higher education, such as a master’s degree or graduate certificate like this one offered at Stanford. You can also take certifications to boost your knowledge in key concepts like Building Information Modeling (BIM). 

Professional skills and qualities

VDC engineers are usually part of a bigger team, so you’ll need various skills and qualifications  to navigate the work environment and efficiently execute your duties. Some of these skills include being flexible and managing many tasks and individuals while putting out high-quality work. A VDC professional should also have an advanced understanding of construction documents, such as technical drawings. A few other skills include: 

• Communication, written and oral 
• Collaboration 
• Time management 
• Technical knowledge in software, such as MS Office, PM tools, AutoCAD, Revit, and more. 
• Ability to work in fast-paced environments
• Teamwork and management  
• Time management and organization 
• Professionalism and ownership of projects

Licenses and certifications

Another requirement for VDC engineers to be successful is licenses and certifications. This training helps engineers become more conversant with VDC principles and practices. They’re great for growing competencies that make you more employable in the industry. 

Examples are management methods that boost productivity and improve business performance. Some of the most common VDC licenses include BCA Academy’s diploma in Virtual Design and Construction Design-Build Institute of America DBIA Certification. Some VDC software, such as Fuzor, also offer training in best practices for their applications. 

Where to look for VDC engineer jobs

Job seekers can effectively search for and apply for VDC engineering jobs in many places. Jobs boards like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Ziprecruiter, and Indeed are just a few places candidates may look for jobs. Other options are researching AEC companies you’d like to work with and searching their career page for job openings. Then you can go ahead and apply if there are any relevant positions available. 

Looking for jobs in any AEC field, not just VDC engineering, can be time-consuming. One way to lessen the hassle and hasten the process of job searching is by working with a technical staffing agency. Finding a job can be much easier and quicker using their extensive resources.

Preparing for your VDC job interview

Interviewing for a role as a VDC engineer can be nerve-racking. Job seekers may apply the following tips to prepare for a VDC job interview. It’ll ensure you’re ready and show the necessary skills and expertise to land the job. 

Update your resume 

The first step to getting your foot in the door is to have a stand-out resume. The recruiter or hiring manager will refer to your resume throughout the interview, so it needs to be updated with your most recent qualifications and work experience. Only include relevant information so it’s not overpopulated and hard to follow.

Review study materials 

Go over relevant research and study materials to refresh your knowledge of the skills required for the role. Review the job description again to ensure you’re familiar with the job requirements, so you know what to study for. Even if you’re not well-versed with all the technical requirements for the job, having a basic understanding of each area can improve your chances of landing the job. 

Prepare to take an assessment 

Some companies may require candidates to take an assessment test to show their skills. This might require completing a design based on an example brief to allow them to get a feel of your design process. You may be asked to complete it during the interview or as a take-home assignment. Whatever the case, be prepared to show off your design skills in relevant software applications. 

Get started as a VDC engineer with Certis Solutions

Take the hassle of job hunting off your plate by working with an experienced technical staffing agency. Certis Solutions is one of the leading AEC recruitment agencies in California, USA. 

We work with many companies searching for top talent to fill vacant positions in their firms, with an extensive list of industry contacts matching you to your dream role as a VDC engineer. Contact us today to get started. 

Many workplaces today strive to make the job environment as safe as possible. In 2022, there were almost 2.8 million injuries and illnesses reported by employers in the United States. This shows there’s an ever-present need for specialized attention to workplace health and safety. Industrial Hygienists use their expertise in science and engineering to ensure workers have a safe place to work. 

These individuals are in charge of the health and safety of workers, families, and communities. They’re also enforcers of federal, state, and local laws in the work environment. Industrial hygienists ensure workers’ injuries, impairment of well-being, or illness are anticipated and controlled before they occur.

Industrial Hygienists: Career outlook

The field of Industrial Hygienists looks promising for the next few years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that employment rates of Industrial Hygienists will grow by 14 percent between 2023 to 2033. The COVID-19 global pandemic also increased the demand for Industrial Hygienists’ expertise. 

More communities and businesses are aware of working toward hazard management and are keen to limit the spread of diseases. If you’re interested in exploring a career as an Industrial Hygienist, there are many lucrative jobs opening up. The BLS reports there will be around 21,900 job openings in this field within the next decade. Other careers related to this sector include health and safety engineers, occupational health, and varying other positions according to your location or industry.

What to expect when working in Industrial Hygiene jobs

The responsibilities of an Industrial Hygienist include identifying and assessing risk factors to people’s health and safety. When these potential threats are identified, you’ll take steps to limit your workers’ exposure to them. There’s more to the job besides touring and inspecting worksites for safety hazards. You can also expect to spend most of your work hours seated at a desk performing tasks, such as creating reports. 

Also known as Occupational Hygienists, the need for workers’ safety and minimal environmental mishaps is standard in every workplace. Industrial Hygienists can expect to work in various industries. To succeed as an Industrial Hygienist, you’ll need astute observational and reporting skills. These skills are necessary because you have to take note of small details and any possible health and safety hazards to assess and communicate potential problems. You’ll also need to spot when safety protocols aren’t in place and implement them.

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills come in when you need to develop solutions to safety challenges in the workplace. You’ll also need them to work on strategies to prevent future occurrences. Industrial Hygienists are also expected to have and use practical life-saving skills. Their knowledge of equipment, materials, and other factors threatening the safety of their colleagues and community can save many lives.

Industrial Hygienist salary: What’s the average?

In the United States, the average annual salary for Industrial Hygienists is $97,577 as of November 2024, according to salary.com. However, your salary can range between $71,092 to $132,442 depending on a variety of factors. 

Some of these include your location, years of experience, certifications, skills, education, and more. Industrial Hygienists practicing in California can make an average of $107,627 annually, which is about $10K above the national average.

Search for Industrial Hygiene jobs with Certis Solutions

Finding the right Industrial Hygiene job can be time-consuming and complex. However, navigating the job search with the right engineering staffing company helping you makes it easy. Certis Solutions enables its clients to land their dream job roles through resume reviews, interview preparations, and coaching sessions. 
Our extensive database of contacts and connections in the AEC industry is valuable in connecting our clients with available job opportunities. Contact us today if you’re interested in pivoting into a new career or a new engineer looking to break into the health and safety field.

At Certis Solutions, we are thrilled to announce our compliance with the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a significant milestone that reaffirms our commitment to supporting clients and consultants in the renewable energy sector. This achievement empowers us to provide exceptional workforce solutions while adhering to industry standards, playing a vital role in the expansion of clean energy initiatives nationwide.

What is the Inflation Reduction Act?

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law on August 16, 2022, is one of the most comprehensive climate bills in U.S. history. It provides over $300 billion in tax incentives to accelerate clean energy and energy efficiency investments across the nation, including $270 billion in tax credits for renewable energy projects like solar, wind, hydrogen, and electric vehicle infrastructure.

The response has been significant, with private companies investing over $86 billion into more than 200 clean energy and electric vehicle initiatives. As demand for renewable energy surges, with 2025 projected to be a record year for new projects, IRA compliance is now crucial for companies looking to thrive in this rapidly expanding market. Certis Solutions is proud to support the renewable sector by meeting these evolving needs.

Why This Matters

Achieving IRA compliance means Certis Solutions is fully equipped to handle your staffing needs while adhering to the rigorous standards set forth by the Inflation Reduction Act. This compliance positions us to help drive the growth of renewable energy initiatives and ensure we are delivering solutions that align with both industry requirements and sustainability goals.

Comprehensive Support for Your Projects

At Certis, we don’t just provide staffing; we offer comprehensive workforce solutions tailored to the unique demands of the renewable energy sector. Our IRA compliance allows us to offer a seamless experience by providing:

• Adherence to Prevailing Wage Requirements: We ensure all workers are paid fairly in accordance with federal guidelines, promoting ethical standards in the workforce.
• Registered Apprenticeship Program: Our apprenticeship program is designed to help you achieve the required labor hours while fostering the next generation of skilled tradespeople. We work with our clients to ensure a minimum of 15% labor hours on IRA-supported projects.
• Tailored Solutions for Your Workforce Needs: From management to specialized labor for solar installations or large-scale renewable energy projects, we provide the expertise and resources to deliver the right team for the job.
• Technical Expertise: Our in-house technical staff are involved in qualifying job requirements and evaluating candidates, ensuring that each placement is the perfect fit for your project.
• Data-Driven Insights: We use data-driven insights to refine our recruiting processes, extending the tenure of successful placements and improving overall workforce performance.
• Streamlined Onboarding: We offer a streamlined interview and onboarding process, allowing us to quickly and efficiently place the right professionals for your needs, reducing downtime and accelerating project timelines.

Our Commitment to People

At Certis Solutions, our people are our greatest asset. We prioritize taking care of our consultants by offering comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as a 401(k) plan with matching contributions. We also provide dedicated HR support to address the needs and concerns of both clients and consultants. This reflects our deep commitment to creating a work environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Join Us on This Journey!

We invite you to partner with Certis Solutions as we embrace this exciting chapter of growth and compliance. Whether you’re a company seeking skilled workforce solutions or a professional looking for your next opportunity in the renewable energy sector, we are here to support your success.

Contact Us Today

Ready to learn more about how our IRA compliance can benefit your projects? Get in touch with us today to discover how we can work together to drive success in the renewable energy industry!

Vertical and horizontal construction represent two distinct streams within the construction industry, each offering  AEC professionals a diverse array of job opportunities. In this blog, we’ll delve into the core differences between these two types of construction.

Vertical Vs. Horizontal Construction: Core Differences

Both vertical and horizontal construction require careful attention to safety, budgeting, and timelines to meet client expectations. They also utilize advanced construction methods and efficient workflows. However, it’s essential to understand that these two approaches are fundamentally different in several ways. Below, we’ll break down these distinctions to give you a clearer picture of each type.

Vertical Construction

At its core, vertical construction refers to projects where height exceeds width. This category encompasses most commercial architecture found in urban centers, including skyscrapers, office buildings, apartment complexes, parkades, and other structured facilities.

Typically, funding for these projects is secured through private organizations, with architects often taking the lead role in the planning and execution phases.

Vertical construction presents a unique set of challenges. While it optimizes limited land space in urban environments, the construction process can become more complex due to the necessity of transporting materials vertically up the building.

Horizontal Construction 

In contrast, horizontal construction involves projects where width surpasses height. This category includes essential infrastructure such as roads, railways, bridges, electric lines, fiber optic cables, pipelines, and sewer systems.

Unlike vertical projects, horizontal construction initiatives are more frequently funded by government sources. The primary objective here is not to expand living or retail space but to enhance the transport and energy needs of existing communities.

In horizontal construction, structural engineers play a pivotal role. Although transporting materials is generally more straightforward in horizontal projects, challenges can arise, particularly in urban settings, especially if the project necessitates access to subterranean regions.

Which Kind of Construction is Right For Me?

Vertical construction often involves complex coordination among architects, engineers, and construction teams, leading to increased risks in terms of safety and financial investments. The vertical nature of these projects introduces hazards such as falling objects and worker safety concerns. Delays are also more common; if one section of a vertical project is not completed, work on higher levels cannot proceed until issues are resolved.

On the other hand, horizontal construction generally carries lower risks and places more control in the hands of engineers. Even if issues arise in one section of a pipeline, teams can continue working on other areas, allowing for a more fluid workflow. Additionally, horizontal projects often rely heavily on government contracts, resulting in quicker project completion times.

While opportunities in horizontal construction can be lucrative, vertical construction tends to offer a wider range of job openings and potentially higher salaries. The collaborative nature of vertical projects necessitates a diverse range of expertise, leading to increased demand for skilled professionals.

Construction Job Openings in California 

In California, horizontal construction engineer positions can be financially rewarding but often come with the caveat of part-time work. Once a project concludes, employment typically ends. Efficient hiring practices are crucial for both contractors and architects, which is where Certis Solutions steps in.

Our dedicated technical recruiters and account managers are here to assist AEC professionals in not only securing the jobs they need but also the positions that align with their career aspirations.

Get in touch with us today to explore the projects that will best serve your professional and personal goals.