What is the impact of big data on civil and structural engineering?

Since the rise of industry 4.0, many sectors have experienced a radical transformation, and big data is having a huge impact. In engineering, big data is transforming the sector, creating new opportunities, from saving time to increasing efficiency and improving environmental performance. Big data allows civil and structural engineers to gain a better understanding of their products and to maximise value.

At AtkinsRéalis, we have a strong understanding of both civil and structural engineering. We work with global teams to help our clients overcome their challenges. With our experience and industry knowledge, we deliver outstanding project outcomes that set us apart from the competition. So, how is big data specifically impacting the civil and structural engineering sectors?

What is big data?

Big data is the processing of collections of enormous data sets that continue to expand exponentially. The difference between data and big data is that big data has greater volumes, variety, and velocity. Fortunately, we’re in a place where artificial intelligence and automation can gather, process, and spot trends in the data in real-time. Instead of manual inputting, searching, and trawling through data, big data makes it easy to find information and create solutions.

How to use big data in civil and structural engineering?

Net-zero building is a big target, and many organisations are looking to create sustainable developments from the outset. Civil engineers can make this goal a reality. With the use of big data, civil engineers can look to previous projects to understand their successes and pitfalls to ensure they use the smartest green techniques.

Big data can also be used for predictive analytics, which can provide information on the exact quantities of materials required, helping to reduce wastage and limit the impact on the environment. At AtkinsRéalis, we have pledged to become net-zero carbon by 2030. Consequently, our civil engineers harness big data tools to lower energy usage and manage processes to ensure minimal waste and environmental impact.

Speed up field data

Structural engineering jobs offer growth, agility, creativity, and design, which can all be incredibly rewarding. However, in the past, structural engineers have had to handle a vast amount of field data, which can be time-consuming and take engineers away from what they do best. Now, it is possible to collate data in a more structured manner with big data. From systemising to analysing, big data makes it easier for structural engineers to prepare reports, provide technical advice and make calculations.

The benefit of speeding up field data in structural engineering jobs is that it saves time, eliminates an arguably mundane task to free up valuable resources and increase project efficiency. For those looking to grow their structural engineering careers, knowing that big data can help to support and simplify field data research can ensure that your future roles will best utilise your skills and reduce time spent trawling field data.

Set and achieve expectations

For civil engineers, another huge benefit of big data is the ability to enhance work breakdown structures (WBS) for greater client transparency. In addition, using predictive analytics on big data can help to create clear project management processes so that engineers can easily manage complex projects.

From clear, consistent mapping and real-time data retrieval, engineers can relay information to stakeholders quickly and easily. Well-managed WBS using high-level data can ensure every team member understands the expectations set and how to achieve them. This can be vital for team leaders and senior civil engineers managing a complex project or large workforce.

Utilising specialist skills

Another benefit that big data can bring to civil and structural engineering projects is utilising the skills available in the team. Predictive analytics can understand the tasks involved and the team skills available. This makes it easy to assign individuals to the right jobs. This can ensure specialist skills are available when you need them.

It also ensures minimal downtime as it is easier to determine the availability of talented civil engineers precisely when and where they are needed. In many projects, delays occur due to resource allocation, but big data analytics can help mitigate this problem with cost-effective and efficient resource allocation.

Better building information modelling

BIM is a core part of civil engineering. With big data, there is more information that can help engineers to visualise each stage. Moreover, it is possible to use past data to avoid pitfalls that other projects have made. Thanks to this wealth of data and analytics, it is possible to enhance the visualisation ability of BIM. In turn, this improves construction systems, stakeholder buy-in, and so much more. With big data and BIM, projects can be seen with greater clarity, speeding up design recommendation approval and helping projects get off the ground faster.

Take your career to the next level with AtkinsRéalis

At AtkinsRéalis, we’re at the forefront of innovation. This means every project we undertake will harness the latest technologies to improve the ease, efficiency and cost for our clients while enabling our team to do what they do best. If you want to be part of a forward-focused, innovative team where your expertise can shine, browse our latest civil engineering jobs and structural engineering roles or set up a job alert to receive up-to-the-minute job postings available across AtkinsRéalis.

List #1

Our articles

How I became a project coordinator in the ecology and environmental sector

Preview

Europe

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/17/2025

Summary

Hi, I'm Sheila, a senior project coordinator in the AtkinsRéalis Ecology team. First, a bit about my background: I grew up in the countryside, in a family that encouraged my passion for wildlife.

Preview

I don't have a degree, but I built an ecology career I love in a brilliant team. Here's how!

Inside AtkinsRealis defence strategy

Preview

Australia

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/16/2025

Summary

For a nation like Australia, building robust defence capabilities is not just a governmental priority but a critical aspect of national security. Global geopolitical shifts and technological adv

Preview

Discover how AtkinsRealis is building robust defence capabilities in Australia using global expertise. Explore career opportunities in the defence sector now.

How mentorship changes careers: Kan Pang’s Story

Preview

Asia

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/15/2025

Summary

Mentorship is moving to the centre of career discussion. A supportive mentor can do far more than boost skills or tick off goals; they can transform entire career paths, shape organisational loy

Preview

Discover how mentorship helped shape Kan Pang’s global career at AtkinsRealis, and why great mentors can transform company culture and careers.

People and communities

Rolls-Royce Small Modular Reactor GDA Case Study

Preview

Europe

Content type

Projects

Publish date

06/13/2025

Summary

Supporting Rolls-Royce SMR through GDA Rolls-Royce SMR Ltd (RR SMR) is developing innovative ways to tackle the threat of global climate change - producing and distributing smaller, factory-built

Preview

This case study showcases the impact made by the AtkinsRéalis team on the Rolls-Royce SMR GDA process.

Nuclear

Why Jean-Philippe loves working in the transportation planning team

Preview

Canada

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/10/2025

Summary

The road ahead for transport planning in Canada is not just exciting; it's transformative. With the visionary "Transportation 2030" initiative steering our course, the focus has sharpened on build

Preview

Meet Jean-Philippe Team Leader and Project Manager in the Eastern Canada Transportation Planning Team.

Transportation

Shaping smarter cities in Florida, USA: The role of civil engineers in transportation innovation

Preview

USA

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/09/2025

Summary

Florida is embracing a new era of urban development, one where innovation, sustainability, and technology converge to create smarter cities. As the state continues to grow, so does its need for tra

Preview

Florida is embracing a new era of urban development.

Transportation

Portrait of asian worker power plant factory holding blueprint thumb up and smiling.

Powering Ontario’s future: Nuclear energy job opportunities in Canada

Preview

Canada

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/09/2025

Summary

As Ontario invests in long-term energy security, the province’s nuclear sector is entering a historic new chapter, one that’s creating high-quality careers, strengthening local communities, and rea

Preview

We’re helping to build something that lasts, economically, environmentally, and nationally.

Nuclear

Harikrishnan's journey: Bold choices and big impact at AtkinsRéalis

Preview

General

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/06/2025

Summary

From taking bold early-career decisions to scaling innovative digital solutions across the globe, Harikrishnan is shaping the future of engineering and design at AtkinsRéalis. With a unique blen

Preview

Harikrishnan took a bold leap from a conventional path and today he’s reshaping the future of engineering and design at AtkinsRéalis. From mentoring teams to turning big ideas into scalable digital solutions, his story shows what’s possible when you’re empowered to grow, innovate, and lead.

Akash Kumar

Sagar’s journey at AtkinsRéalis: Story of reinvention and leadership

Preview

India

Content type

Projects

Publish date

06/05/2025

Summary

Some careers follow a straight line. Sagar’s took a few bold turns, and each one added something new. He started his career as a UI/UX designer, shifted to recruitment, explored tech systems, an

Preview

From designing user experiences to shaping global HR systems, Sagar’s journey at AtkinsRéalis is a story of reinvention, resilience, and rising to the challenge.

Akash Kumar

From muddy sites to global projects: Ravindra’s journey with AtkinsRéalis

Preview

General

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/05/2025

Summary

Ravindra’s engineering journey started on gritty construction sites and has taken him to leading major projects worldwide. With nearly two decades (19 years) of hands-on experience, his story is

Preview

From muddy sites to global projects—Ravindra's story is one of quiet determination, learning, and impact. See how he's helping shape the future of sustainable design at AtkinsRéalis.

Akash Kumar

Three female engineers stood together in hard hats and high vis jackets

What to expect when you join the AtkinsRéalis graduate program in the UAE and Saudi Arabia

Preview

Middle East

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/04/2025

Summary

Do you want to play a part in the evolution of the Middle East? With our Middle East graduate program, you can shape projects that deliver Saudi Vision 2030 and redefine sustainable city living. Pe

Preview

If you’re exploring graduate engineering jobs in the UAE and beyond, this grad scheme could be exactly what you’re looking for. Here’s what you can expect when you join this program.

Early careers

The responsibilities and rewards of an electrical engineer job at AtkinsRéalis in Cairo

Preview

Africa

Content type

Blogs

Publish date

06/04/2025

Summary

Cairo is transforming rapidly. Driven by the sustainability goals of Egypt Vision 2030 and the need to address climate-induced challenges like water-scarcity, modernised infrastructure is a necessity

Preview

Here, we take a look at the roles and responsibilities of an electrical engineer and what their impact is in Cairo.

View all

List #1

Related jobs

Technical Director, Major Project PM

Salary

Location

Tsim Sha Tsui

Job Type

Full Time

Career Area

Engineering (Other)

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

Tsim Sha Tsui

Description

Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class engineering services and nuclear company dedicated to engineering a better future for our p

Reference

R-132544

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

View

CPI en structure du bâtiment - Région de l'Abitibi-témiscamingue

Salary

Location

Rouyn-Noranda

Job Type

Full Time

Career Area

Structural engineering

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

Rouyn-Noranda

Val D'Or

Description

Rejoignez-nous pour remodeler l'avenir avec AtkinsRéalis. AtkinsRéalis se consacre à l'ingénierie d'un avenir meilleur pour notre planète et ses habitants.Nous sommes à la recherche d'un(e) Candidat(e

Reference

R-132492

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

View

Structural Engineering Intern - Fall 2025

Salary

Location

Orlando

Job Type

Part Time

Career Area

Structural engineering

Market

Cities & development

Category

Contractor / Temporary

Location

Orlando

Description

WE ARE HIRING! AtkinsRéalis is seeking a Structural Engineering Intern to join our Orlando, Florida office. ABOUT US AtkinsRéalis is one of the world’s most respected design, engineering, and proje

Reference

R-132292

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

View

Document Controller

Salary

Location

London

Job Type

Flexible Working

Full Time

Career Area

Project management

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

London

Epsom

Description

Take our vision into the future.You might know us for the great work we do across our wide variety of projects. We're proud to say it's thanks to our people's diversity of thought, expertise and knowl

Reference

R-132089

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

Author

Dwithi M

Author

Dwithi M

View

Document Controller

Salary

Location

Manchester

Job Type

Flexible Working

Full Time

Career Area

Project management

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

Manchester

Description

Reference

R-132088

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

Author

Dwithi M

Author

Dwithi M

View

Design Production Manager (Moving I-4 Forward)

Salary

Location

Orlando

Job Type

Full Time

Career Area

Corporate communications

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

Orlando

Description

Why join us? It’s an exciting time at AtkinsRéalis! We are rapidly growing in the US. Our company's purpose is to build a better world for our planet and its people. We recognize the importance of mak

Reference

R-132005

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

View

Senior Electrical Engineer

Salary

Location

Vancouver

Job Type

Full Time

Career Area

Electrical engineering

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

Vancouver

Description

Senior Electrical EngineerCome join us in reshaping the future with AtkinsRéalis. AtkinsRéalis is dedicated in engineering a better future for our planet and its people.The Buildings and Facilities gr

Reference

R-131984

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

View

Intermediate Electrical Engineer (Buildings)

Salary

Location

Vancouver

Job Type

Full Time

Career Area

Electrical engineering

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

Vancouver

Description

Intermediate Electrical Engineer (Buildings)Are you looking for a company that works on major engineering projects all over the world? Do you want to make a difference by improving the daily lives of

Reference

R-131981

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

View

Principal Structural Engineer

Salary

Location

Dublin

Job Type

Full Time

Career Area

Structural engineering

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

Dublin

Description

AtkinsRéalis one of the world’s leading providers of engineering professional consulting and support services with offices across Ireland.We are seeking a Principal Structural Engineer to be based in

Reference

R-131966

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

Author

Kaushik Sharma

Author

Kaushik Sharma

View

Technicien(ne) électricité du bâtiment - Projet Ligne Bleue

Salary

Location

Montréal

Job Type

Full Time

Career Area

Design engineering

Market

Cities & development

Category

Permanent

Location

Montréal

Description

Atkinsrealis, en collaboration avec ses partenaires, est fière d’avoir gagné le projet du prolongement de la ligne bleue du métro de Montréal, estimé à plus de 2.6 milliards de dollars. Ce prolongemen

Reference

R-131929

Expiry Date

01/01/0001

View

View all

What is the impact of big data on civil and structural engineering?

What is big data?

How to use big data in civil and structural engineering?

Speed up field data

Set and achieve expectations

Utilising specialist skills

Better building information modelling

Take your career to the next level with AtkinsRéalis

Snippet title

Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests

Everyone belongs

Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis

Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests