Archives for August 2024

AutoCAD Certification: Do I Need One?

There are strict operation guidelines and policies for AEC professionals working in the public and private sectors. An example of these are certifications that measure the capabilities of individuals and firms that operate in these sectors.

AEC professionals have a high standard of professionalism to ensure projects they work on go smoothly from start to completion. An AutoCAD certification is one of the standards and certifications AEC professionals can obtain to boost their career prospects. It shows their level of competency in their field of work and expands their job opportunities. 

What is AutoCAD certification?

Getting an AutoCAD certification shows an AEC professional has the right skills and requirements to operate AutoCAD software proficiently. It also shows you understand the digital modeling skills needed to excel in the architectural, engineering and construction industry. 

A valid AutoCAD certification shows existing or prospective employers that you’re skilled in the newest version of the software. Some additional benefits include:

  • Visible proof your skills are valid and shows your skill level with AutoCAD.
  • Increases your employability value and makes your resume stand out.
  • Adds your name and credentials to the prestigious list of Autodesk-certified registered professionals.
  • Adds the digital badge and logo to your professional work, which lends credibility to your designs.

AEC professionals that require AutoCAD certification

AutoCAD is one of the most used CAD software in design. Examples of professionals who need to demonstrate their capabilities and optimize their design process in design and digital drafting include:

  • Structural Engineers
  • Civil Engineers
  • Project Managers
  • Industrial Engineers
  • Architects, Architectural Drafters and Designers 
  • Interior Designers 
  • Electrical Engineers
  • Manufacturing Engineers
  • Mechanical Engineers, Drafters, and Designers

How to get AutoCAD certified

The makers of AutoCAD and AutoDesk offer several certification exams for different design programs and skill levels. You’ll need to complete three steps to get AutoCAD certified.

Step 1: The first step is to decide which certification path interests you or would benefit you the most. You may make this decision based on your field of work and experience. Some of the certifications Autodesk offers include: 

  • Autocad 
  • Autodesk Revit Architecture
  • Autodesk Inventor 
  • Autocad Civil 3D
  • Autodesk 3ds Max 

Step 2: You’ll need to take a course to gain the technical skills required to operate the software as a professional. You’ll also need between 150 to 1200 hours of direct work with AutoCAD. Some programs have specific requirements before exam eligibility. You may find some written material online to learn with and also enroll in classes to develop your skills. However, most of the training required for AutoCAD certifications comes from working directly with the software.

Step 3: Find a certified examination center approved by AutoDesk and AutoCAD, then register to take the exam in person. The length of the exams varies from thirty to fifty questions.

Find your next role with construction staffing solutions

Finding the right job as an Autocad certified AEC professional in the state of California can be overwhelming sometimes. Let our team of specialized recruiters help you land your dream job. Contact us today to benefit from our extensive contacts list and excellent staffing skills.

How to Get a General Contractor License in California

Engineers in California need a valid general contractor license before they can legally operate in the state. Conducting business without a license can have dire consequences. All engineers are advised to look into and verify the licenses required to work in their field. However, there are certain exceptions where you don’t need a license to operate, these include: 

  • If the project’s combined value, including materials and labor, doesn’t cost $500 or more.
  • You don’t advertise yourself as a licensed contractor. 
  • You’re an employed engineer, paid wages, with no say over the project results.
  • You work in sales and installation of finished products.

How to get a general contractor license: Top steps

Identify the license you need

There are three general contractor licenses you can get depending on the type of work you do. Before starting the application process, you’ll need to know which one to apply for. You could either apply for:

  • Class A general engineering contractor license. If your work involves contracting business in connection with fixed works that need specialized engineering skills and knowledge. Examples of this are excavating, cement and concrete work, trenching, and other related work. They’re usually for large-scale public projects and can include airports, overpasses, railroads, and power plants. 
  • Class B general building contractor license. This license is for contractors whose primary business is in connection with structures using multiple unrelated trades. They’re used by contractors bidding for or working on prime contracts containing two unrelated trades. The structures may be being built, previously constructed, or are to be made for sheltering people, movable property, chattel, and animals. 
  • Class C specialty contractor license. This is for contractors in plumbing, electricity, landscaping, masonry, framing and rough carpentry, HVAC subcontractors and other engineers in specialized industries. A Class C license works for projects where you’re performing specific work and two or more unrelated trades aren’t required.

Meet the license requirements

Licensing requirements in California are as follows:

  • Be at least eighteen years old at the time of application. 
  • Four years of verifiable experience in the class you apply. This experience can be at the journey, contactor, foreman or supervisor level.
  • Possess the necessary skills and experience for managing a construction business or have a qualified individual who meets these requirements. The individuals’ experience must be verifiable, and its accuracy should be certified by individuals with knowledge of said experience.
  • A $15,000 bond to protect consumers from damages caused by license law violations or defective construction. The bond is also for the benefit of employees who haven’t been paid their wages. Alternatively, a $15,000 cashier’s check is filed with CSLB instead of a contractor’s bond. If using a qualifying individual, a $12,500 bond is filed.
  • All contractors in California must have a contractor’s license bond. You can obtain two additional bonds for business entities licensed as LLCs and should file an employee/worker bond.
  • Obtain qualifying individual bonds. These are used for cases where the qualifier manages employees or when a manager, managing member or owner has lower than ten percent stock ownership. 

Submit an application

Submit your application after paying a non-refundable $450 application fee. The forms are available here and should be filled out with ink or printed on a computer. Pencil-filled forms are not accepted. You can apply for only one license at a time. After it’s issued, you may apply for any other ones you need. When your application is accepted, the CSLB sends a fingerprinting package for you to fill out and return immediately. After that, an exam notice will arrive in three weeks.

Complete a background check

Submitting your fingerprints is part of the background check. The notification package will contain information on where to go and fingerprinting costs. You’ll also be required to verify your work experience to show experience in running a construction outfit. Verification can be done by a supervisor, employer, foreman or general contractors. 

People with a criminal background may still qualify for and be issued a license by CSLB if they can prove sufficient rehabilitation. Proof of rehabilitation can be written evidence of counseling, completing relevant rehab programs and obtaining gainful employment. 

Sit the California contractor license exam

The contractor license exam comprises two parts. The standard Law and Business exams and a second test on the particular area or trade you’re applying for. The first exams are multiple choice questions covering Business Management and Construction Law. 

You can find study materials on the topics covered here. The study guides for trade exams are also sent with the notice for your exams. The exam will typically cover best practices, codes, and specific knowledge about the construction area.

Get the required bonding and insurance documents

After passing the exams, you’re issued a bond and fee notification at the testing center. The next step is to submit the required documents. These include evidence of your bond, paid licensing fees, and completed asbestos open book examination. Other documents are liability insurance, and workers’ compensation or exemption of workers’ compensation if you don’t have employees. 

Each document must be approved and accepted before your license is issued, whether you pass the exam or not. The center will send your wall certification and pocket card a week after issuing your license.

Having the proper licensing helps your business stand out and shows professionalism. Customers are more likely to work with your company as they know you’re capable, insured, and in keeping with industry laws. Working with an engineering staffing agency can help you determine the right licenses for your field. General contractor licenses in California are valid for two years, and renewing them is easy. Renewals can be done whether your current license is inactive or active.

Find your next general contractor job with Certis Solutions

Certis Solutions provide its clients in the AEC workforce with links to various jobs in the construction industry. Thanks to our extensive database of companies, you’ll have the opportunity to work on highly desirable projects. Contact us today to learn how you can connect to these projects.

Career and Salary Expectations for HAZWOPER Jobs in California

The Rise of HAZWOPER related positions

Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) jobs are on the rise, and many AEC professionals are now considering switching to this career or beginning a career in this field. HAZWOPER is an essential career that identifies and removes hazardous waste, such as radioactive waste or asbestos. They’re also involved in construction projects where they handle and clean up dangerous or toxic materials. 

HAZWOPER professionals work according to strict guidelines for treating, storing, and disposing waste. These guidelines are dictated by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). You’ll work in highly trained teams to ensure no toxic materials are left behind following a cleanup. 

In addition to structural and building cleanups, HAZWOPER jobs involve working in any environment with hazardous waste that could harm people or the environment. These jobs are essential for keeping cities clean and free from dangerous and toxic materials that could lead to severe injuries.

HAZWOPER jobs are essential for every city, and though the job is challenging, many AEC professionals are rising to it. They also work on cleaning up after natural and human-made disasters and emergencies, such as accidents. HAZWOPERs are therefore necessary for safeguarding lives and properties in high-risk and disaster-prone areas such as California. These individuals may also take records and conduct reports on the contaminant levels of particularly harmful waste like radioactive materials.  

Work Environment

HAZWOPER jobs are field related with hardly any desk time. Depending on the type of cleanup, you’ll either work in confined spaces or out in the open in different weather conditions. Many workers find the continuously changing work site exciting and varied. It’s not uncommon to work in heavy rain on one day and work in a crawl space or attic on another. 

Work environments may vary from building projects to incinerators or nuclear power plants. The work can be challenging and dangerous, but it’s also rewarding. Hazardous waste workers must remain safe and protect themselves by wearing protective gear. 

You’ll need to be in coveralls, glasses, respirators, gloves, and other protective equipment to keep from coming in direct contact with the dangerous contaminants you’ll be working with. This is a vital part of the job, and employers will often only consider hiring candidates who can wear protective equipment for a long time. Working in line with guidelines and following your supervisor’s instructions reduces the risk of injuries and workplace accidents. 

Training 

Training requirements for HAZWOPER jobs are limited, and anyone can get started in this role. There’s no formal education required to become a hazardous waste operator; however, you’ll need to have at least a high-school diploma. A bit of formal training also leads to HAZWOPER certifications awarded by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). These courses cover knowledge on staying safe at work sites and take little time to complete. 

Most of the training you’ll get as a HAZWOPER is by learning on the job. You’ll gain experience by watching others work and following instructions from supervisors and teammates. 

HAZWOPER Jobs in California

HAZWOPER workers are in high demand in many cities in California. The job outlook is promising for any AEC professionals looking to enter this career in the golden state. The rules for training and working as a HAZWOPER in California are in line with federal regulations with a few additions. 

Working as a HAZWOPER in California will mean you’ll be adhering to stricter rules on personal safety equipment and have more health and safety plans. These are set in place by CalOSHA, California’s division of OSHA to enforce workplace safety in both the private and public sectors. 

If you choose to work in California, you’ll need to take the initial HAZWOPER training. This could either be the HAZWOPER 40-hour training course or the 20-hour course. You’ll also need to take additional courses each year with an 8-hour course as a HAZWOPER refresher, and the lessons you take will be in line with your HAZWOPER field.

HAZWOPER Salaries in California

According to ZipRecruiter, California’s hazardous waste operations and emergency response workers make $19.88 an hour or $41,237 annually. This is promising news for anyone looking to practice in California as HAZWOPER workers located here earn higher than the national average salary for HAZWOPER workers at $39,120. 

There’s also room for higher salary options based on skills and level of experience, and location. Some cities in California, such as San Francisco and Bolinas, pay as much as $45,778. The salary outlook for HAZWOPER workers is promising, as experts project it’ll grow by 11 percent over the next five years. 

Hiring for HAZWOPER in California

American Integrated Services (AIS)

American integrated services was founded in 1998 and has its headquarters in Wilmington, with locations scattered around California. They provide turnkey environmental construction services. Their skilled teams offer excellent work and have worked on complex projects providing support for environmental challenges. You can find current job openings on their careers page. 

Some of their services include: 

  • Environmental remediation and construction 
  • Waste management 
  • Emergency and disaster response 
  • Industrial demolition and abatement 

Essel Environmental 

Essel is hiring a HAZWOPER certified environmental technician. Essel was founded in 2003 with the vision of providing an alternative to large conglomerates by helping public sector clients manage hazardous materials. The company is based in Oakland, California and provides various environmental and emergency response services. You can find their current job openings on their careers page.

some of their services include:

  • Asbestos testing 
  • Wildfire recovery services 
  • Lead testing 
  • Soil Testing 
  • PCB removal and caulking 

AllTech Environmental Services 

Alltech is hiring a HAZWOPER technician to join their team for ongoing projects. The company is located in Long Beach, California and was founded in 1995. They pride themselves on providing environmental and project field support services to the entire western region. You can find their current job openings here. Their services include: 

  • Field support services 
  • Engineering 
  • Emerging technologies 

Certis Solutions connects you with opportunities to work with AEC firms with different specializations. Our team of recruiters is focused on setting you up with the right team to make the most of your abilities and qualifications. Contact us today to get started on finding your dream role.

Construction Jobs in California: Cover Letter Tips

Construction jobs in California are rapidly growing, offering opportunities for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals to work on some of the most significant projects with the nation’s top companies. Some of the reasons for the growing construction projects and rising employment opportunities in the AEC industry include an increasing demand for housing facilities and natural disaster relief efforts. 

But with great work opportunities comes greater competition, and if you’re an aspiring AEC professional looking for construction jobs in California, you need to stand out among other candidates to build a successful career in construction. The best way to find a lucrative career is by creating an impressive cover letter, which offers a glimpse of your competencies to potential employers. 

Below are a few tips to keep in mind to create an exceptional cover letter. Read further to find out how Certis Solutions can help you find a job in the AEC industry. 

Writing a cover letter for construction jobs in California

A cover letter is generally a one-to-two-page document that goes along with a resume when applying for a job. A cover letter includes information you can’t include in a resume. You should always keep it concise and clear without overselling yourself. 

Competence and confidence are best demonstrated through straightforward and sophisticated writing. Don’t be shy to include personal interests to give potential employers a glimpse of your personality.  

Top cover letter writing tips

Here are a few cover letter writing tips to follow to increase your chances of landing a job: 

  • Refer to job description requirements. While creating a cover letter, take references from the job description and add relevant keywords
  • List your most relevant qualifications. You may have multiple degrees or additional credentials, but it’s always best to mention educational qualifications applicable to the job requirements . This is specifically for applicants looking for a career change or who want to explore different branches of AEC. 
  • Highlight your career experience (talk about noteworthy projects): List all the significant projects you’ve worked on previously, as this shows your expertise and in-depth knowledge of the field. You can talk about how you’ll use your experience to complete any tasks given to you or accomplish the pre-set goals by employers. 
  • Quantify your key achievements. Write about the number of projects you’ve previously been part of, as this shows your on-field experience and in-depth knowledge about the job responsibilities. You can also mention the maximum budget of the projects to showcase how you were responsible for completing some of the biggest construction projects, if any. 
  • Explain how you can add value to the project/company. This simply means showing how important the company and construction projects are for you and how you’ll give a hundred percent to meet the pre-set goals. Make sure to sound genuine and only make plausible comments, which you can support with a credible amount of experience and work.  

Find construction work in California with Certis Solutions 

Certis Solutions is a reliable construction staffing agency in California that helps AEC professionals find ideal work opportunities in top-grade construction companies. It provides easy access to a broad network of industry experts, recruiting managers, and experienced AEC professionals that can help you gain experience and advance your career. 

If you’re searching for construction work California or careers in construction CA, Certis Solutions is the ideal platform that helps solve all your employment-related problems. Sign up today or contact our employment consultant to learn more about our services. 

Reasons to Consider a Career in Disaster Response

Is Disaster Response a Good Career Choice?

More AEC professionals are considering environmental engineering as a lucrative career path. These professionals are responsible for crucial aspects of industrial projects as they ensure the protection of the environment by limiting waste and other construction activities that could be harmful to the environment. 

There are many paths toward getting a position  as an environmental engineer and having a successful career. We’ll examine some of the best ways to do this so aspiring environmental engineers know exactly what to do to begin a career in this field. 

Opportunities in Environmental Engineering

There are many things you can do as an environmental engineer. You’ll be responsible for planning and implementing processes for reducing waste and pollution common on industrial project worksites. 

Typical workplaces for environmental engineering jobs include large construction and mining sites. You’ll work with companies operating in this space to ensure they know what the regulations are for public and environmental safety and comply with them. Below are a few responsibilities you may have as an environmental engineer.

  • Develop processes for reducing pollution and waste. 
  • Consult and advise companies on how construction negatively affects the environment. 
  • Develop and implement recycling programs at construction sites. 
  • Conduct environmental audits. 
  • Design wastewater collection and treatment systems. 
  • Assess the potential impact a project has on the environment. 

Environmental engineers may work in the field, in the office, or some combination of both depending on the company and project type. There may also be some traveling to assess sites in different locations across the state or country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for environmental engineers in May 2021 was $98,820 per annum or $46.55 per hour. 

Skills for Environmental Engineering

You’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or similar fields like civil or chemical engineering. It’s also possible to begin a career in this field by gaining experience on the job through internships or working as an engineer-in-training. 

You can also take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam (FE) or the Principles and Practices of Engineering exam (PE). There are other skills that make you stand out and help you land a job as an environmental engineer, such as: 

  • design skills 
  • advanced math, physics, statistics, and chemistry 
  • structural design 
  • ecological rehabilitation technologies 
  • site management 

Hiring in Environmental Engineering 

AECOM

AECOM is hiring an environmental engineer in Long Beach, California. The company was officially established in 1990 and strives to reduce emissions and create a more sustainable and equitable future. They’re one of Fortune 500’s largest companies in America and are also named among the most ethical companies dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment. 

You can find current job openings on their careers page. Some of their services include:

  • Climate adaptation and sustainability 
  • Water waste and natural resources preservation 
  • Remediation, restoration, and redevelopment 
  • Air quality consulting and engineering  

Stillwater Sciences 

Stillwater is hiring an environmental engineer in California. They’re dedicated to developing a better world using rigorous science. The company focuses on beneficial users of water and watershed, including recreation, energy generation, flood protection, and balancing water supply. They also manage river resources, such as rivers and floodplains to safeguard functioning ecosystems. 

You can find their current job openings on their careers page. Some of their services include: 

  • Water quality management 
  • Environmental compliance 
  • Watershed management 
  • Floodplain protection 
  • River restoration 

CDM Smith 

CDM was founded in 1947 and has locations worldwide. They’re a construction and engineering firm that provides smart solutions to their client’s environmental, energy, water, transportation, and facilities challenges. 

You can find current job openings on their careers page. Some of their services include: 

  • Solid waste management
  • Remediations 
  • Climate resilience 
  • Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFA) investigations and treatments polyfluoroalkyl

Certis Solutions can help you launch a career in environmental engineering. Our team works with you to build a resume that stands out and connects you with potential employers. Contact us today to get started.

Starting a Career in Environmental Engineering Jobs

How to Get a Career in Environmental Engineering Jobs Off the Ground

More AEC professionals are considering environmental engineering as a lucrative career path. These professionals are responsible for crucial aspects of industrial projects as they ensure the protection of the environment by limiting waste and other construction activities that could be harmful to the environment. 

There are many paths toward getting a position  as an environmental engineer and having a successful career. We’ll examine some of the best ways to do this so aspiring environmental engineers know exactly what to do to begin a career in this field. 

Opportunities in Environmental Engineering

There are many things you can do as an environmental engineer. You’ll be responsible for planning and implementing processes for reducing waste and pollution common on industrial project worksites. 

Typical workplaces for environmental engineering jobs include large construction and mining sites. You’ll work with companies operating in this space to ensure they know what the regulations are for public and environmental safety and comply with them. Below are a few responsibilities you may have as an environmental engineer.

  • Develop processes for reducing pollution and waste. 
  • Consult and advise companies on how construction negatively affects the environment. 
  • Develop and implement recycling programs at construction sites. 
  • Conduct environmental audits. 
  • Design wastewater collection and treatment systems. 
  • Assess the potential impact a project has on the environment. 

Environmental engineers may work in the field, in the office, or some combination of both depending on the company and project type. There may also be some traveling to assess sites in different locations across the state or country. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for environmental engineers in May 2021 was $98,820 per annum or $46.55 per hour. 

Skills for Environmental Engineering

You’ll need to complete a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering or similar fields like civil or chemical engineering. It’s also possible to begin a career in this field by gaining experience on the job through internships or working as an engineer-in-training. 

You can also take the Fundamentals of Engineering exam (FE) or the Principles and Practices of Engineering exam (PE). There are other skills that make you stand out and help you land a job as an environmental engineer, such as: 

  • design skills 
  • advanced math, physics, statistics, and chemistry 
  • structural design 
  • ecological rehabilitation technologies 
  • site management 

Hiring in Environmental Engineering 

AECOM

AECOM is hiring an environmental engineer in Long Beach, California. The company was officially established in 1990 and strives to reduce emissions and create a more sustainable and equitable future. They’re one of Fortune 500’s largest companies in America and are also named among the most ethical companies dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment. 

You can find current job openings on their careers page. Some of their services include:

  • Climate adaptation and sustainability 
  • Water waste and natural resources preservation 
  • Remediation, restoration, and redevelopment 
  • Air quality consulting and engineering  

Stillwater Sciences 

Stillwater is hiring an environmental engineer in California. They’re dedicated to developing a better world using rigorous science. The company focuses on beneficial users of water and watershed, including recreation, energy generation, flood protection, and balancing water supply. They also manage river resources, such as rivers and floodplains to safeguard functioning ecosystems. 

You can find their current job openings on their careers page. Some of their services include: 

  • Water quality management 
  • Environmental compliance 
  • Watershed management 
  • Floodplain protection 
  • River restoration 

CDM Smith 

CDM was founded in 1947 and has locations worldwide. They’re a construction and engineering firm that provides smart solutions to their client’s environmental, energy, water, transportation, and facilities challenges. 

You can find current job openings on their careers page. Some of their services include: 

  • Solid waste management
  • Remediations 
  • Climate resilience 
  • Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFA) investigations and treatments polyfluoroalkyl

Certis Solutions can help you launch a career in environmental engineering. Our team works with you to build a resume that stands out and connects you with potential employers. Contact us today to get started.