The world is in the midst of a construction boom, fueled by major civil engineering projects. Therefore, it is the ideal time to work for a civil engineering company. But how do you know the best civil engineering company to work for? This article will give you an overview of the biggest civil engineering companies in the UK that are leading in the world.
There have been so many construction opportunities in both developed and developing countries. But the issue is the getting the expertise in heavy civil engineering and a range of building works, covering the commercial and residential sectors.
Truly, having great companies to help make construction works easy in the UK can make the country exceptional.
This article will give you an overview of what the best companies offer their employees and some criteria you can use to choose the best from the group. It will also list 17 companies recognized as leaders in the civil engineering industry and scoring highly among employees.
Table of contents
- How Many Civil Engineering Companies are in the UK?
- What are the Characteristics of a Good Civil Engineering Company?
- Best Paying Civil Engineering Companies to Work for in the UK
- Andrew Scott Ltd
- Bowmer & Kirkland Ltd
- Devon Contractors Ltd
- Dyer & Butler
- Farrans Construction
- Heron Bros. Ltd
- Kier Group plc.
- PJ Dyke Paving and Ground Works
- RJ McLeod
- Scott White and Hookins
- Seymour Civil Engineering
- R H Irving Construction Ltd
- Sir Robert McAlpine
- Stepnell
- The Clancy Group PLC
- Waterco
- Civil Engineering Contractors Association
- In Conclusion
- References
- We Also Recommend
How Many Civil Engineering Companies are in the UK?
There are a lot of civil engineering construction companies that exist in the UK. But out of them all the civil engineering construction companies in the UK, we have made a list of the top civil engineering companies in the UK.
If you have not worked for any of the companies listed below. If you’re looking to change jobs in the industry, it may be worth reading reviews like these and the shortlisted companies we have here.
Then you can further investigate your perspectives and better understand if you would be a good cultural candidate for a potential role.
As a specialized technical company, we know many of the companies listed below. So if you would like to discuss your career plans and get additional support to identify the right companies for you, please contact us.
What are the Characteristics of a Good Civil Engineering Company?
The top ten companies listed below are obviously among the largest, often internationally respected. You can actually work for thousands of small businesses, consultants, and agencies. So how do you decide which positions to fill?
The first thing to consider is the company’s pedigree. In general, well-established companies will be more accommodating to new hires than new companies that have yet to find their mark. They are also more likely to offer good compensation and benefit plans.
Some of the larger companies will offer benefits such as additional vacations, free health insurance, and better retirement plans.
That said, working for a small company or a new company can mean that the corporate culture is more relaxed and flexible, and being part of something relatively new and fresh can be exciting. Also, there may be less competition for jobs in small businesses.
Another thing to watch out for is any available staff satisfaction surveys or exams. If you’re going to become a civil engineer on-site, be sure to check each company’s safety logs. Look for companies that have strong health and safety processes and low accident rates.
Finally, you should look at the history of companies to make sure they have ethical business standards.
For example, not working in countries that violate the human rights of their workers or companies that have standards. Terrible environmental. These darker moral and ethical issues should also play a role in the company you choose to apply to.
READ ALSO: 20 Best Paying Jobs for MBA Graduates
Best Paying Civil Engineering Companies to Work for in the UK
UK is one of the best countries where you can study civil engineering and still end up getting a job. The reason is that the UK has a lot of leading civil engineering companies in UK.
Here is a list of the biggest civil engineering companies in the UK:
- Andrew Scott Ltd
- Bowmer & Kirkland Ltd
- Devon Contractors Ltd
- Dyer & Butler
- Farrans Construction
- Heron Bros. Ltd.
- Kier Group plc.
- PJ Dyke Paving and Ground Works
- R H Irving Construction Ltd
- RJ McLeod
- Scott White and Hookins
- Seymour Civil Engineering
- Sir Robert McAlpine
- Stepnell
- The Clancy Group PLC
- Waterco
- Civil Engineering Contractors Association
Andrew Scott Ltd
Andrew Scott Ltd is one of the UK’s oldest independent and leading civil engineering construction companies. Most importantly, they are a respected name in the civil engineering and construction markets for clients in the public and private sectors.
For almost 150 years, this company has successfully contributed to the building of UK environment, carrying out innovative, high-quality, and sustainable projects.
In addition, they are a major local employer, bringing the knowledge and experience of their 200 associates, who operate from their network of regional offices.
Also, they carry out a wide range of civil engineering projects, from small test projects for small businesses and future maintenance contracts, to large and complex multi-million dollar projects.
Above all, Andrew Scott Ltd operates across the UK through strategic frameworks and partnership agreements with new and old customers.
Employees Review:
“My typical day at work would be getting all the power tools, shovels, and all equipment needed on-site out as soon as I would get to the site all ready to start work.
My time with Andrew Scoot when I started I knew nothing about work, but by the time I finished, I learned a lot and know I would feel confident in laboring in my own ability to carry out jobs with a team.
All the managers with Andrew Scott couldn’t have been more helpful to me, my supervisors were my main inspiration to work because they started off just a laborer like myself, but worked their way up to supervisors and being able to lead a team of around 5 men. The hardest part of my job was all the new stuff I had to take in at once but it was also the most enjoyable because all of that time I was learning a lot.
Bowmer & Kirkland Ltd
Basically, Bowmer + Kirkland is one of the UK’s largest and most successful private construction and development groups.
Equally, Bowmer + Kirkland Group (B + K) is a British construction and safety services company, created in 1923 in the association between carpenter Alfred Bowmer and bricklayer Robert William Kirkland.
Since then, it has grown into a successful private construction and development group.
Employees Review:
Here is what former Assistant Site Manager, Derby has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“Good company with great prospects and a great work/life Balance would recommend working there as you are made to feel welcome by everyone. A truly great company.
Here is what former Site Secretary, Stourbridge & Wolverhampton, West Midlands has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“Learned a lot about the construction industry and how it works. Have to be professional and work well as a team as well as a very good self-initiative due to the importance of up-to-date construction drawing for builds.
Devon Contractors Ltd
Independent and award-winning, Devon Contractors has a long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality, high-value buildings on time and on budget.
As a collaborative entrepreneur, Devon strives to respond to its clients’ wishes in a progressive, positive, and rapid manner.
This is because, they believe that the use of local labor, subcontractors, and suppliers, when possible, helps to reduce the impact of our construction activities on the environment and also supports the local economy.
Employees Review:
Here is the testimonial of the Business Project Manager, Heathcoat Fabrics, Alison Kitchener:
“The works surpassed our expectations, as did the overall site management for the project. The team gave us confidence in their ability to deliver within the timescales we required, with the major preparation works completed as scheduled.
Here is the testimonial of the Joint MD of Forthglade, Gerard Lovell:
“Throughout the new-build and refurbishment projects, we found Devon Contractors staff to be very knowledgeable, professional, and proactive during the course of our contracts.
Here is the testimonial of the Development Manager at Bridgwater Gateway Ltd, Phil Wade:
“The works surpassed our expectations, as did the overall site management for the project. The team gave us confidence in their ability to deliver within the timescales we required, with the major preparation works completed as scheduled.
Dyer & Butler
If you want to develop a career as a site engineer or quantity surveyor but have not yet attended college, you can choose to start working and receive part-time training on a daily basis at Dyer & Butler.
Dyer & Butler also offers apprenticeships in a number of disciplines and as an apprentice, they will sponsor you to go to college daily (or block) while gaining on-site experience for an NVQ (National Vocational Qualification).
At Dyer & Butler, they recognize the importance of recruiting graduates and the benefits to us by properly training them. For this reason, they now offer a development program for civil engineering graduates and metrology graduates.
The company is skilled in a lot of areas, such as Dyer & Butler Electrical, Airports, Buildings, Energy, Highways, Mechanical & Electrical, Public Realm, Rail, River & Marine, and Waste.
While you gain hands-on experience four days a week while working, you also spend a day at college or university and we will sponsor you to attend the daily release program.
Employees Review:
Here is the testimonial of the Quantity Surveyor, Ashley:
“An engaging work culture, perfect for graduates or trainees beginning their career in the construction industry
Here is the testimonial of a Sub Agent, Owen:
“Dyer and Butler, it’s a great company, filled with excellent people
Here is what a Placement Student, Asha has to say:
“I had a great time, I didn’t want to go back to university
Farrans Construction
Farran’s activity is structured in two main divisions: construction and civil engineering. At Farrans Construction, these main divisions complement each other perfectly in terms of resources and experience.
Farrans’ reputation as a leading contractor in the construction and civil engineering sector owes much to a well-defined sense of social responsibility.
For this reason, they believe that being a responsible company means being honest about the consequences of their activities, minimizing negative impacts, and maximizing positive opportunities.
They also help develop local communities and advance the careers of our employees, placing the responsibility of people at the heart of our business.
Employees Review:
Here is what a former Main Contractor (Health & Education), Cambridgeshireener has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“A typical day involves doing measurements and take off on design drawings. I gained experience in Contract Administration and subcontract package management.
Here is what a former Shadow Civil Engineer & Education), Belfast has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“Although I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my work experience with Farrans I don’t believe that it is the right career path for me. I think that anyone who is thinking of applying for them definitely shouldn’t cross them off the list as I enjoyed my week very much and everyone I worked with was a pleasure to work with.
READ ALSO: 13 Paid Chemical Engineering Internships In 2024
Heron Bros. Ltd
Established in Northern Ireland since 1956, the Heron Group of Companies is one of the oldest private business groups in Northern Ireland. Also, they have built a strong reputation as one of the leading land, property specialists, construction, and manufacturing in Northern Ireland.
Currently, they offer a full range of design, construction, and real estate services to a broad client base in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Scotland, England, and Poland in all market sectors.
They have in turn achieved high recognition for their work in the UK and Ireland in the construction industry as one of the best in design and construction.
Majorly, their success has been built on the solid foundation of strong family ethics, partnership, integrity, quality, value for money, and an unmatched commitment to providing customer satisfaction.
Employees Review:
Here is what Business Project Manager, Heathcoat Fabrics, Alison Kitchener has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“The works surpassed our expectations, as did the overall site management for the project. The team gave us confidence in their ability to deliver within the timescales we required, with the major preparation works completed as scheduled.
Kier Group plc.
At Kier, they are always looking for ways to improve what they do. In fact, customers choose Kier because of their reputation for providing excellent quality. That is why it became vital for them to maintain their quality record as they continue to evolve and improve their approach.
As a company, they work hard to ensure that quality is at the forefront of the minds of all their employees at all times. To do this, they focus not only on the quality of the final product but also incorporate quality principles in the way they work, in the way they treat each other, and in the way they interact with people outside their organization.
A strong corporate culture supports this goal; prioritize the right things the first time, share the right ideas, and learn from mistakes. Above all, they have a team dedicated to commercial insurance that provides support for all their activities.
Employees Review:
Here is what Data Administrator (Former Employee) – Manchester, Greater Manchester, has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“I loved my time at Kier and am only sad that it was cut short due to COVID 19. The workload was challenging and interesting, the team dynamic was collaborative and helpful, and fun.
Here is what Commercial Administrator (Former Employee) – Fobbing, Essex has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“I enjoyed working for Kier and would be there now if the worksite had not been sold. The nearest Kier office is too far to travel to each day. Whilst there, I learned a number of new skills in the commercial and operations field. A very helpful company for promoting careers.
Here is what RECEPTIONIST/ ADMIN (Former Employee) – Glasgow has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“he a very relaxed, friendly, but hard-working atmosphere in a specialist field. Found it very interesting to learn about that field.
Everyone was open in their communications, and it turned out to be one of the most enjoyable of my work experiences.
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PJ Dyke Paving and Ground Works
PJ Dyke Paving and Ground Works is a small, well-established family business that specializes in all aspects of driveways, landscaping, earthworks, and small civil works. All of their work is done by their own directly employed teams.
According to them, they said that they are supporting entrepreneurs and are very focused on health and safety and on the development and training of employees.
Basically, their client base includes experts and architects, companies, schools, developers, and private clients.
Above all, they are NRSWA accredited and do regular road work.
Employees Review:
Here is what MELKSHAM | Paving and Driveways, AdrianB-380 has to say (as seen on yell.com):
“We started off getting great advice from PJ Dyke, then we got a very sensible quote from them, followed by a really well-done job. Couldn’t be more pleased with the work the team did create a new parking area for us.
Here is what Green, has to say (as seen on yell.com):
“Just had a large tiled patio and block driveway completed by Phil and his team. From the moment I met Phil for a quote, I knew he would do a great job and he came up with good suggestions and ideas. They have done an outstanding job in all aspects. Everything was completed on time with a lot of attention to detail. Very tidy workers who worked through some pretty awful weather but kept going. I would have no hesitation in recommending Phils business.
Here is what Emma, has to say (as seen on yell.com):
“Would highly recommend Phil and his team. They have carried out several jobs for us now, the latest being security fencing. Suzanne is great on the communication side, and the team turns up when they say they will complete the job to a very high standard in the timescale agreed, and leave the school in a nice, tidy state. If there have been any snagging issues, again these are sorted without any hassle. They are a really friendly, helpful company, who makes you feel that nothing is too much trouble.
RJ McLeod
RJ McLeod is one of the largest private civil engineering and construction companies in Scotland. For more than 60 years, they have offered successful solutions to meet the needs of our customers.
In places that are often logistically demanding, their experience, expertise, and resources, combined with their teamwork approach, have enabled them to build a proven track record in civil engineering and construction infrastructure in Britain, a contribution that has taken several forms.
At RJ McLeod, they are known for always looking for high-quality people (agents, engineers, general foremen, and surveyors) to join their team.
Above all, they offer an attractive salary package, as well as structured work (if necessary) in a good work environment.
They also accept applications from all areas of civil engineering. Therefore if you have an interest in working for them please send your Curriculum Vitae to recrument@rjmcleod.co.uk.
Employees Review:
There are no reviews for this company yet. You can be the first to review this company.
Scott White and Hookins
Scott White and Hookins LLP is a limited liability company that offers a full range of specialized advisory services in the public and private sectors. Founded in 1963, we have offices in London, Bedford, Sutton, and Winchester.
Most importantly, they are one of the biggest civil engineering companies well-positioned to serve clients across the UK.
Each project has the direct participation of a partner, as well as a senior staff member, from start to finish. This ensures that, as a customer, you are confident that the value of your project is maximized.
Our size and structure allow us to be small enough to provide you with a personalized, consistent, and friendly service while being large enough to finance large and complex projects.
Scott White and Hookins and their staff are corporate or individual members of the following organizations and professional organizations.
Employees Review:
There are no reviews for this company yet. You can be the first to review this company.
Seymour Civil Engineering
Hartlepool-based Seymour Civil Engineering has built a reputation for being one of the top leading civil engineering companies in the Northeast. This objective was achieved because of their constant concern to develop close working relationships with all their clients. Thus helping to guarantee the delivery of projects in accordance with the highest standards.
Currently, they offer a wide range of civil engineering and infrastructure services, including:
- Main Drainage
- Clean Water Rehabilitation
- Wastewater Rehabilitation
- Urban Renewal Projects
- Environmental Improvement and Historic Restoration Services
- Development and Infrastructure
- Ports, Harbors, and Sea Defence Works
- Minor Works
Seymour Civil Engineering employs 220 permanent employees and has a modern and extensive fleet of equipment that enables the company to carry out all aspects of civil engineering work.
Most importantly, the company has established a reputation for excellence and has received awards in recognition of the quality of their work. Including from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, Construction Excellence, CECA, and the Hartlepool Civic Trust.
READ ALSO: Best & Highest Paying IT Careers in the World
Employees Review:
Here is what a Former Employee – Lead Environmental Scientist in Biloxi, MS (US) has to say (as seen on Glassdoor):
“I worked at Seymour Engineering full-time (More than 3 years).
Was given a high level of responsibility, found most projects interesting and enjoyable, and gained very diverse experience.
R H Irving Construction Ltd
basically, R H Irving Construction Ltd main specialty has always been civil engineering and earthmoving. However, they remain a trusted contractor and company on a variety of construction projects in the UK.
Over the years, they have worked on some of the main construction and engineering projects in Cumbria. Including the main residential developments, urban regeneration projects, improvement of national roads, bicycle lanes, construction projects. , strengthening bridges and stabilizing banks.
Today, from their Longtown headquarters, they have over 80 employees and subcontractors working on projects in the north of England and the southwest of Scotland.
In fact, many of their employees have been with them from the earliest days and we have established a long-term reputation for reliability and project completion on time and on budget.
Employees Review:
There are no reviews for this company yet. You can be the first to review this company.
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Sir Robert McAlpine
Sir Robert McAlpine Ltd is one of the best companies providing construction and civil engineering services in the United Kingdom. The company offers services such as design, project management, planning, acquisition and programming.
Also, Sir Robert McAlpine provides construction services to the oil and gas, pharmaceutical, power generation, nuclear, defense, and water/mining industries.
So why do you have to join them?
Here’s why there is no other place like Sir Robert McAlpine to do the job you love.
Sir Robert McAlpine is a family-owned construction and civil engineering company that operates 12 offices and employs over 1,600 people across the UK. Founded in 1869, they have been leaders in ubiquitous construction for more than two centuries in UK.
Frankly, Sir Robert McAlpine is one of the biggest companies for civil engineers who’s employer really stands out from other companies in the UK.
Employees Review:
Here is what Package Manager (Current Employee) – London has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“The people who work for McAlpines are great and are willing to help you with progression in your career. The downfall of McAlpines is they think they can get away paying less money than you’re worth.
Here is what Data Entry South Kensington (Former Employee) – South Kensington has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“This was also a good company to work here and a great salary received. Enjoyable work and easy to commute. Friendly staff members and always available for help.
Here is what Graduate Structural Engineer (Former Employee) – Hemel Hempstead has to say:
“Really enjoyed the role and the culture/teams. Remote employees made to feel part of the team regardless of the geographic constraints. Team leads attitude toward the junior employees makes it the best place to work. Good leadership.
Stepnell
Stepnell is a full-fledged construction partner with proven end-to-end project life cycle experience.
Basically, they are an established and mature company with the resources and infrastructure to carry out larger and more difficult projects worth up to £30 million.
At Stepnell, they make sure that their clients realize their visions. Whatever your challenges may be, their deep experience and holistic approach give their clients the confidence that every aspect of their project will be executed efficiently, to the highest standards, in a refreshing and collaborative manner.
Employees Review:
Here is what the Current Employee-Quantity Surveyor has to say (as seen on Glassdoor):
“I have been working at Stepnell full-time for more than 5 years. Nice size projects, good management.
Here is what Former Employee – Project Manager in Newbury, England has to say (as seen on Glassdoor):
“I worked at Stepnell full-time. Some projects they take on are interesting and large in value in nature.
Here is what the Current Employee – Contracts Manager has to say:
“I have been working at Stepnell full-time for more than 5 years. Good family business, well-skilled workers
The Clancy Group PLC
Clancy is one of the UK’s largest private construction companies. With over sixty years of experience and a workforce of over 2,500 people, they have worked hard to develop a reputation as a well-run business you can trust to deliver value for money and essential services that help operate the UK.
Also, the Clancy Group is a recognized member of the Association of Civil Engineering Contractors (Southern) Ltd. The Association of Civil Engineering Contractors is the representative body of companies that work daily to deliver, update, and maintain the country’s infrastructure.
At Clancy Docwra, they identify, develop, and implement innovative solutions to meet the UK’s core infrastructure needs. Clancy Docwra has extensive experience specializing in rail maintenance services.
In addition, their services and capabilities range from design and project management to construction and maintenance. Because they believe safety is at the heart of our philosophy and as one of the UK’s largest family building companies
Employees Review:
Here is what Senior HSE Advisor (Former Employee) – Dartford, Kent has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“I loved working at Clancy. Indeed, I went from strength to strength professionally, learning in-depth H&S within civil engineering. I was encouraged and supported throughout my employment and can say to this day that I can call upon my old work colleagues for help if needed.
Here is what SHEQ Advisor (Former Employee) – Thames Valley has to say (as seen on Indeed):
“Clancy like to make the most of their employees by helping them get their work-life balance right. There is a real family vibe about the company, it is not unknown for one of the Clancy family to come and sit next to you for lunch to find out what it is you do for the company.
Here is what HSE Advisor (Current Employee) – North East has to say:
“On the whole a good company to work for who are striving to modernize in this fast-paced world. The company is in a far better place now than it was a few years ago.
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Waterco
Waterco helps its clients understand, mitigate, and reduce the impact of development on the water cycle, the environment, and new and existing water and sewer infrastructure. This is accomplished through evaluation, modeling, and detailed design.
As they grow to serve our growing customer base, Waterco is always looking for the right people to join our growing organization. If you are ready for an exciting new challenge, please send your CV and cover letter to chances@waterco.co.uk.
Employees Review:
Here is what Former Employee – Anonymous Employee has to say (as seen on Glassdoor):
“I worked at Waterco full-time. There is plenty of free time with a flexible schedule.
Here is what Former Employee – Senior Executive in Kuala Lumpur has to say (as seen on Glassdoor):
“I worked at Waterco full-time for more than 3 years.
Very good company with very good products compared to other companies in the same industry. The company is expanding in South East Asia very well.
Civil Engineering Contractors Association
Basically, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association is the representative body of companies that work daily to deliver, modernize and maintain the country’s infrastructure.
With over 300 members in eight regions, CECA represents companies that together carry out around 70-80% of all civil engineering activities in the UK, in the key sectors of Transport, Energy, Communications, Waste, and Water.
Also, CECA is recognized by members, clients, and governments as the lead agency representing the interests of civil engineering contractors in the UK.
Above all, their service is delivered through our national office in the heart of Westminster, and offices in Scotland and Wales.
In addition, CECA is relatively unique in that its members include entrepreneurs of all sizes, from large multinationals to specialized companies and regional SMEs, and who occupy all levels of supply chains.
Most importantly, they seek to meet the needs of all our members and provide a unique voice to the industry for civil engineering contractors of all kinds.
Employees Review:
There are no reviews for this company yet. You can be the first to review this company.
In Conclusion
If you have not worked for any of the companies listed below. If you’re looking to change jobs in the industry, it may be worth reading reviews like these and the shortlisted companies we have here.
References
- uk.ezilon.com – UK Civil Engineering
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