Structural Engineers are specialists in their field who work closely with Architects, contractors and other consultants to ensure the skeleton & foundations of the building work with the intended design and functionality. They are concerned with the foundations, walls, columns, beams and roof members that form a building's structure and ensure its stability.
Structural Engineering is a specialised area of civil engineer concerned with making the structure as efficient as possible through choice of structural materials & building technique while working with the Architect to ensure the look is not compromised. Mathematical and analytical skills are required to ensure the frame or body of the structure are suitable for their environment and able to carry the loads imposed on it.
Civil engineering is a wide subject area involving the design of bridges, roads, canals, dams and large structures including tall buildings.
Example Situations.
For example, if you were to build an extension you might employ an Architect to help with the external appearance, planning how space would be used and making necessary planning applications. The Architect would also assist with how the conversion conforms with code & regulations. An Engineer would review how the vertical and horizontal loads are transferred to the foundations via the structure, ensure changes to the existing can be made and ensure all elements and materials are suitable for the task.