Construction Engineering
- As a construction engineer, you turn designs into reality.
- You must manage construction projects so they are built right, completed on time, and within budget.
- You apply your knowledge of construction methods, materials, and equipment to turn the designs of other engineers into successful projects.
Jacob Backer
Engineering Technician,
Cook County Highway Department
Meet an Engineering Technician
What do you want people to know about working for a local agency?
Working for a local agency provides you with a stable, good paying job that also allows you to have a full life outside of work. It is also an amazing way to have a direct, positive impact on your community every day.
What attracted you to work for your current employer?
Local agencies provide a very stable source of employment, reasonable hours, good pay, and great benefits. Working for a local agency is not only a great job, but allows me to have a great life outside of work as well.
Briefly describe your career path?
I graduated from a four year university with a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management. I went to work for a very large international general contractor. I loved the work, and was able to move around the country for huge exciting projects in my five years with the company. When my wife and I learned we were going to have a baby, we decided it would be best for me to find a job with less hours, less travel, and more stability in our personal lives. Working for a local agency has provided me with a great deal of personal time in my life to spend with my family while also taking care of us financially.
When you reflect on your younger self, can you identify any hobbies, interests, or characteristics that led you to your current position/career?
I have always loved being outside, building things, and problem solving. Working in the field gives me the opportunity to have fun doing all three of those things while getting paid.
Become a Civil Engineer 