Insights What qualifications do you need to be a structural engineer in Hong Kong?

The construction industry in Hong Kong continues to grow. In terms of GDP, construction reached 26140 million HKD in Q4 of December 2021. Hong Kong has grown in reputation for its rapid and high-quality construction projects and has quickly become a regional leader for its design and building prowess. What makes Hong Kong such a leader in the industry is thanks to the high-calibre, qualified professionals bringing these projects to life, such as structural engineers. 

Structural engineers serve a crucial role in designing and developing safe infrastructure. The focus of these engineers is to ensure the safety and integrity of structures, such as buildings and bridges. For example, helping them resist high pressure and forces to being flexible enough to handle high winds, storms, earthquakes, and any other unforeseeable hazards.

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What makes structural engineering such as exciting career path is that every day requires the application of a variety of skills and experiences. From researching a variety of construction materials and determining the most suitable from scientific evaluations to applying mathematical principles to ensure construction safety, a structural engineer's role is dynamic and multi-faceted. 

What's more, as Hong Kong recovers from the pandemic, skills in this sector are becoming more sought after. 

Post-pandemic acceleration of construction in Hong Kong

The shock of a worldwide pandemic meant that quick, creative thinking and problem-solving were needed. The agility shown by the talent in the industry has enabled Hong Kong to bounce back. Now the focus is on embracing industry 4.0 in the construction sector, such as incorporating the latest digital techniques into engineering. 

It is these new innovations that are driving a more efficient approach to construction. This is helping to recoup the slow-down of the industry during the pandemic. What's more, it is the new talent in the sector that is able to bring new ways of thinking and digital transformations that are helping to put the industry on a positive trajectory. 

As such, the industry is always on the lookout for talent that can drive innovation and change. As well as a forward-thinking approach, however, there are a few qualifications to acquire before applying for structural engineering jobs in Hong Kong. 

Qualifications required for structural engineering jobs

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Due to the specialist nature of the role, it is important to have the right qualification. The main priority for a career in structural engineering is to hold a bachelor's degree in engineering – ideally structural or civil engineering. 

If your programme is in civil engineering, but you know you want to look for structural engineering jobs in Hong Kong, it is best to opt for several structural engineering modules to showcase your specialism. 

In Hong Kong, the best way to ensure your qualification is accepted across the industry is to ensure it is accredited by the Hong Kong Institute of Engineers (HKIE). 

To apply for a bachelor's degree in structural engineering, you will need to have International A-Levels, Higher Diploma or equivalent. Your chosen training provider will set out their individual entry requirements. 

Hong Kong also offers a five-year programme for more intense training that combines a bachelor's and master's degree in one programme. This can help to provide more experience and knowledge. However, an accredited bachelor's degree is generally sufficient to enter the industry. 

Obtain a license

While not strictly a qualification, a requirement to work as a structural engineer in Hong Kong is to obtain a license from the Hong Kong Institute of Engineers. To receive this license, you will need to undertake a structural exam that tests your skills, knowledge, and ability to design structures while considering the implication of a variety of risk factors. 

Engineering membership

Finally, a key consideration that can help propel your structural engineering career in Hong Kong is to ensure you are a member of professional organisations. Membership in the Institute of Civil Engineers, Hong Kong, Institution of Structural Engineers and the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers - Hong Kong, for example, could help to advance your career in the industry. 

Supporting your structural engineering career at AtkinsRéalis

At AtkinsRéalis , we're excited to see the transformation of the industry and looking to support the new talent who can digitise the engineering sector and take the industry to the next level. 

We recognise that budding structural engineers have a unique set of skills, from problem-solving to critical thinking, and in-depth analysis to detailed designs. As such, we want to support these skills through our supportive and encouraging career advancement strategies

Our mission is to build a high-performance culture across our projects in Hong Kong. If you're excited to build, develop and transform the industry, we'd love to support you. From our graduate and internship engineering programmes to taking your career to the next level with our structural engineering job openings, we support your career at every stage. 

If you're ready to take the next step in your structural engineering career in Hong Kong, apply today or sign up to receive our job alerts.