Aaron Owen

The Complete Guide to Becoming a VDC Engineer

Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) engineers typically work on building projects where they’re in charge of developing the visual computer model for buildings. They’re part of the larger construction team of architects, electricians, and other construction personnel. Regardless of the project size, it’s essential to have these specialists in charge of each critical aspect of the project to ensure things run smoothly. 

Given their work, it’s important to be well versed in all things VDC engineering before getting into the field. You’ll need knowledge, such as familiarity with software applications, acute attention to detail, and practical understanding of essential skills to create value as a VDC engineer. 

Becoming a VDC engineer: What you need to know

AEC professionals looking to become VDC engineers should know what the job involves and what career requirements are needed. It’s a lucrative field, and according to salary.com, the median pay for a VDC engineer was $86,038 as of November 2024. 

The area is experiencing rapid growth as the job outlook shows a growth rate much higher than the average growth in other industries. Several cities like San Jose, Santa Clara, and Fremont in California are among the highest paying cities for VDC engineers who earn as much as $107,978 a year. 

VDC engineer requirements

Specific requirements must be met to qualify as a VDC engineer. Not only do these qualities show your knowledge in the field, but they also make it easier for employers to hire you.

Education

Most VDC engineer jobs require candidates to have at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, such as civil engineering or architecture. To further your skills and make you stand out from the competition, you’ll need to get higher education, such as a master’s degree or graduate certificate like this one offered at Stanford. You can also take certifications to boost your knowledge in key concepts like Building Information Modeling (BIM). 

Professional skills and qualities

VDC engineers are usually part of a bigger team, so you’ll need various skills and qualifications  to navigate the work environment and efficiently execute your duties. Some of these skills include being flexible and managing many tasks and individuals while putting out high-quality work. A VDC professional should also have an advanced understanding of construction documents, such as technical drawings. A few other skills include: 

  • Communication, written and oral 
  • Collaboration 
  • Time management 
  • Technical knowledge in software, such as MS Office, PM tools, AutoCAD, Revit, and more. 
  • Ability to work in fast-paced environments
  • Teamwork and management  
  • Time management and organization 
  • Professionalism and ownership of projects

Licenses and certifications

Another requirement for VDC engineers to be successful is licenses and certifications. This training helps engineers become more conversant with VDC principles and practices. They’re great for growing competencies that make you more employable in the industry. 

Examples are management methods that boost productivity and improve business performance. Some of the most common VDC licenses include BCA Academy’s diploma in Virtual Design and Construction Design-Build Institute of America DBIA Certification. Some VDC software, such as Fuzor, also offer training in best practices for their applications. 

Where to look for VDC engineer jobs

Job seekers can effectively search for and apply for VDC engineering jobs in many places. Jobs boards like Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Ziprecruiter, and Indeed are just a few places candidates may look for jobs. Other options are researching AEC companies you’d like to work with and searching their career page for job openings. Then you can go ahead and apply if there are any relevant positions available. 

Looking for jobs in any AEC field, not just VDC engineering, can be time-consuming. One way to lessen the hassle and hasten the process of job searching is by working with a technical staffing agency. Finding a job can be much easier and quicker using their extensive resources.

Preparing for your VDC job interview

Interviewing for a role as a VDC engineer can be nerve-racking. Job seekers may apply the following tips to prepare for a VDC job interview. It’ll ensure you’re ready and show the necessary skills and expertise to land the job. 

Update your resume 

The first step to getting your foot in the door is to have a stand-out resume. The recruiter or hiring manager will refer to your resume throughout the interview, so it needs to be updated with your most recent qualifications and work experience. Only include relevant information so it’s not overpopulated and hard to follow.

Review study materials 

Go over relevant research and study materials to refresh your knowledge of the skills required for the role. Review the job description again to ensure you’re familiar with the job requirements, so you know what to study for. Even if you’re not well-versed with all the technical requirements for the job, having a basic understanding of each area can improve your chances of landing the job. 

Prepare to take an assessment 

Some companies may require candidates to take an assessment test to show their skills. This might require completing a design based on an example brief to allow them to get a feel of your design process. You may be asked to complete it during the interview or as a take-home assignment. Whatever the case, be prepared to show off your design skills in relevant software applications. 

Get started as a VDC engineer with Certis Solutions

Take the hassle of job hunting off your plate by working with an experienced technical staffing agency. Certis Solutions is one of the leading AEC recruitment agencies in California, USA. 

We work with many companies searching for top talent to fill vacant positions in their firms, with an extensive list of industry contacts matching you to your dream role as a VDC engineer. Contact us today to get started. 

Industrial Hygienists: What Does Your Future Hold?

Many workplaces today strive to make the job environment as safe as possible. In 2022, there were almost 2.8 million injuries and illnesses reported by employers in the United States. This shows there’s an ever-present need for specialized attention to workplace health and safety. Industrial Hygienists use their expertise in science and engineering to ensure workers have a safe place to work. 

These individuals are in charge of the health and safety of workers, families, and communities. They’re also enforcers of federal, state, and local laws in the work environment. Industrial hygienists ensure workers’ injuries, impairment of well-being, or illness are anticipated and controlled before they occur.

Industrial Hygienists: Career outlook

The field of Industrial Hygienists looks promising for the next few years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that employment rates of Industrial Hygienists will grow by 14 percent between 2023 to 2033. The COVID-19 global pandemic also increased the demand for Industrial Hygienists’ expertise. 

More communities and businesses are aware of working toward hazard management and are keen to limit the spread of diseases. If you’re interested in exploring a career as an Industrial Hygienist, there are many lucrative jobs opening up. The BLS reports there will be around 21,900 job openings in this field within the next decade. Other careers related to this sector include health and safety engineers, occupational health, and varying other positions according to your location or industry.

What to expect when working in Industrial Hygiene jobs

The responsibilities of an Industrial Hygienist include identifying and assessing risk factors to people’s health and safety. When these potential threats are identified, you’ll take steps to limit your workers’ exposure to them. There’s more to the job besides touring and inspecting worksites for safety hazards. You can also expect to spend most of your work hours seated at a desk performing tasks, such as creating reports. 

Also known as Occupational Hygienists, the need for workers’ safety and minimal environmental mishaps is standard in every workplace. Industrial Hygienists can expect to work in various industries. To succeed as an Industrial Hygienist, you’ll need astute observational and reporting skills. These skills are necessary because you have to take note of small details and any possible health and safety hazards to assess and communicate potential problems. You’ll also need to spot when safety protocols aren’t in place and implement them.

Critical thinking and problem-solving skills come in when you need to develop solutions to safety challenges in the workplace. You’ll also need them to work on strategies to prevent future occurrences. Industrial Hygienists are also expected to have and use practical life-saving skills. Their knowledge of equipment, materials, and other factors threatening the safety of their colleagues and community can save many lives.

Industrial Hygienist salary: What’s the average?

In the United States, the average annual salary for Industrial Hygienists is $97,577 as of November 2024, according to salary.com. However, your salary can range between $71,092 to $132,442 depending on a variety of factors. 

Some of these include your location, years of experience, certifications, skills, education, and more. Industrial Hygienists practicing in California can make an average of $107,627 annually, which is about $10K above the national average.

Search for Industrial Hygiene jobs with Certis Solutions

Finding the right Industrial Hygiene job can be time-consuming and complex. However, navigating the job search with the right engineering staffing company helping you makes it easy. Certis Solutions enables its clients to land their dream job roles through resume reviews, interview preparations, and coaching sessions. 
Our extensive database of contacts and connections in the AEC industry is valuable in connecting our clients with available job opportunities. Contact us today if you’re interested in pivoting into a new career or a new engineer looking to break into the health and safety field.

Certis Solutions is Now IRA Compliant!

At Certis Solutions, we are thrilled to announce our compliance with the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a significant milestone that reaffirms our commitment to supporting clients and consultants in the renewable energy sector. This achievement empowers us to provide exceptional workforce solutions while adhering to industry standards, playing a vital role in the expansion of clean energy initiatives nationwide.

What is the Inflation Reduction Act?

The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), signed into law on August 16, 2022, is one of the most comprehensive climate bills in U.S. history. It provides over $300 billion in tax incentives to accelerate clean energy and energy efficiency investments across the nation, including $270 billion in tax credits for renewable energy projects like solar, wind, hydrogen, and electric vehicle infrastructure.

The response has been significant, with private companies investing over $86 billion into more than 200 clean energy and electric vehicle initiatives. As demand for renewable energy surges, with 2025 projected to be a record year for new projects, IRA compliance is now crucial for companies looking to thrive in this rapidly expanding market. Certis Solutions is proud to support the renewable sector by meeting these evolving needs.

Why This Matters

Achieving IRA compliance means Certis Solutions is fully equipped to handle your staffing needs while adhering to the rigorous standards set forth by the Inflation Reduction Act. This compliance positions us to help drive the growth of renewable energy initiatives and ensure we are delivering solutions that align with both industry requirements and sustainability goals.

Comprehensive Support for Your Projects

At Certis, we don’t just provide staffing; we offer comprehensive workforce solutions tailored to the unique demands of the renewable energy sector. Our IRA compliance allows us to offer a seamless experience by providing:

  • Adherence to Prevailing Wage Requirements: We ensure all workers are paid fairly in accordance with federal guidelines, promoting ethical standards in the workforce.
  • Registered Apprenticeship Program: Our apprenticeship program is designed to help you achieve the required labor hours while fostering the next generation of skilled tradespeople. We work with our clients to ensure a minimum of 15% labor hours on IRA-supported projects.
  • Tailored Solutions for Your Workforce Needs: From management to specialized labor for solar installations or large-scale renewable energy projects, we provide the expertise and resources to deliver the right team for the job.
  • Technical Expertise: Our in-house technical staff are involved in qualifying job requirements and evaluating candidates, ensuring that each placement is the perfect fit for your project.
  • Data-Driven Insights: We use data-driven insights to refine our recruiting processes, extending the tenure of successful placements and improving overall workforce performance.
  • Streamlined Onboarding: We offer a streamlined interview and onboarding process, allowing us to quickly and efficiently place the right professionals for your needs, reducing downtime and accelerating project timelines.

Our Commitment to People

At Certis Solutions, our people are our greatest asset. We prioritize taking care of our consultants by offering comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, as well as a 401(k) plan with matching contributions. We also provide dedicated HR support to address the needs and concerns of both clients and consultants. This reflects our deep commitment to creating a work environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Join Us on This Journey!

We invite you to partner with Certis Solutions as we embrace this exciting chapter of growth and compliance. Whether you’re a company seeking skilled workforce solutions or a professional looking for your next opportunity in the renewable energy sector, we are here to support your success.

Contact Us Today

Ready to learn more about how our IRA compliance can benefit your projects? Get in touch with us today to discover how we can work together to drive success in the renewable energy industry!

Vertical vs. Horizontal Construction: Understanding the Difference

Vertical and horizontal construction represent two distinct streams within the construction industry, each offering  AEC professionals a diverse array of job opportunities. In this blog, we’ll delve into the core differences between these two types of construction.

Vertical Vs. Horizontal Construction: Core Differences

Both vertical and horizontal construction require careful attention to safety, budgeting, and timelines to meet client expectations. They also utilize advanced construction methods and efficient workflows. However, it’s essential to understand that these two approaches are fundamentally different in several ways. Below, we’ll break down these distinctions to give you a clearer picture of each type.

Vertical Construction

At its core, vertical construction refers to projects where height exceeds width. This category encompasses most commercial architecture found in urban centers, including skyscrapers, office buildings, apartment complexes, parkades, and other structured facilities.

Typically, funding for these projects is secured through private organizations, with architects often taking the lead role in the planning and execution phases.

Vertical construction presents a unique set of challenges. While it optimizes limited land space in urban environments, the construction process can become more complex due to the necessity of transporting materials vertically up the building.

Horizontal Construction 

In contrast, horizontal construction involves projects where width surpasses height. This category includes essential infrastructure such as roads, railways, bridges, electric lines, fiber optic cables, pipelines, and sewer systems.

Unlike vertical projects, horizontal construction initiatives are more frequently funded by government sources. The primary objective here is not to expand living or retail space but to enhance the transport and energy needs of existing communities.

In horizontal construction, structural engineers play a pivotal role. Although transporting materials is generally more straightforward in horizontal projects, challenges can arise, particularly in urban settings, especially if the project necessitates access to subterranean regions.

Which Kind of Construction is Right For Me?

Vertical construction often involves complex coordination among architects, engineers, and construction teams, leading to increased risks in terms of safety and financial investments. The vertical nature of these projects introduces hazards such as falling objects and worker safety concerns. Delays are also more common; if one section of a vertical project is not completed, work on higher levels cannot proceed until issues are resolved.

On the other hand, horizontal construction generally carries lower risks and places more control in the hands of engineers. Even if issues arise in one section of a pipeline, teams can continue working on other areas, allowing for a more fluid workflow. Additionally, horizontal projects often rely heavily on government contracts, resulting in quicker project completion times.

While opportunities in horizontal construction can be lucrative, vertical construction tends to offer a wider range of job openings and potentially higher salaries. The collaborative nature of vertical projects necessitates a diverse range of expertise, leading to increased demand for skilled professionals.

Construction Job Openings in California 

In California, horizontal construction engineer positions can be financially rewarding but often come with the caveat of part-time work. Once a project concludes, employment typically ends. Efficient hiring practices are crucial for both contractors and architects, which is where Certis Solutions steps in.

Our dedicated technical recruiters and account managers are here to assist AEC professionals in not only securing the jobs they need but also the positions that align with their career aspirations.

Get in touch with us today to explore the projects that will best serve your professional and personal goals.

Three Californian Wastewater Engineering Firms to Have On Your Radar

Wastewater management is crucial to California’s environmental sustainability, and the companies at the forefront of this industry are paving the way for a cleaner, healthier future. For civil engineers passionate about making a tangible impact, the opportunities in wastewater engineering are endless—and California is home to some of the best firms in the nation.

In this article, we’re spotlighting three of the top wastewater engineering companies in California. These firms are not only leading groundbreaking projects but also offering incredible career prospects for engineers looking to contribute to transformative infrastructure solutions. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, these companies represent the best of what the wastewater engineering industry has to offer.

Let’s dive into the top three wastewater engineering firms shaping California’s future.

Top Three Wastewater Engineering Companies in California

1. Coleman Engineering

Based out of Roseville, California, Coleman Engineering is a wastewater utility firm with a tight-knit team of dedicated civil engineers. Their expertise spans across California, Nevada, Idaho, and Utah, providing a range of services including planning for water and recycled water systems, wastewater utility systems design, bidding support, construction observation, and compliance monitoring. Coleman Engineering may be smaller in size, with a workforce of 11–50 employees, but its impact on the wastewater industry is anything but small. Their reach and expertise allow them to handle significant projects while maintaining a close, collaborative team environment.

Some of the firm’s most notable projects include the Brentwood WWTP Effluent Diversion Structure and the River Islands Recycled Water System. Coleman Engineering has worked with a variety of high-profile clients, including the City of Fairfield, Tuolumne City Sanitary District, and Shadow Lakes Golf Course.

2. Mead & Hunt

Founded in 1900, Mead & Hunt has grown into a multidisciplinary powerhouse with offices nationwide, including three locations in California—Ontario, Sacramento, and Windsor. This well-established firm is known for embracing innovation and growth while maintaining a strong presence in the wastewater engineering industry. While Mead & Hunt is a larger company, with over 40 active offices, it prides itself on empowering employees to take charge of their career growth. The firm provides extensive support and training, ensuring that engineers are well-equipped to succeed and contribute to meaningful projects.

As part of their environmental and sustainability divisions, Mead & Hunt have worked on many wastewater engineering and water quality projects, including the South Central Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion and the Jeff Davis Water Treatment Plant. Their clients range from the Minnesota Department of Transportation, Aspen-Pitkin County Airport, to the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency (SAFCA). 

Awards & Recognitions

Mead & Hunt’s excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Best of State award from ACEC-Wisconsin for the Little Falls Dam Reconstruction project at Willow River State Park and the ACEC-WA Engineering Excellence award for the Fish Passage and Culvert Design project in Rosyln, Washington

3. Peterson Brustad, Inc

Peterson Brustad, Inc (PBI) is a specialized water supply and wastewater engineering firm located in Folsom, California. Founded in 2005, PBI is a midsized firm with a team of 11–50 employees, committed to delivering sustainable water solutions across the state. Recently, PBI was acquired by Verdantas, a private-equity-backed firm specializing in environmental consulting, sustainable engineering, modeling, and digital technology. This acquisition strengthens PBI’s ability to provide cutting-edge solutions while remaining dedicated to its mission of identifying and maintaining adequate water supplies for California’s communities.

PBI has played a critical role in numerous water supply and wastewater management projects across California, including the Arden Water System, the Jenny Lind Water Treatment Plant Expansion, and the Larkfield Water Treatment Plant Expansion. The company has built strong relationships with clients like California American Water, the City of Folsom, and the San Joaquin Area Flood Control Agency (SJAFCA).

Find Your Next Role in Wastewater Engineering with Certis Solutions

Wastewater engineering in California offers the chance to work on projects that are both challenging and rewarding. If you’re looking for your next opportunity in this field, Certis Solutions can help you find a role that perfectly suits your skills and career goals. Contact our team today to explore current opportunities and start making a difference in wastewater management.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanical Engineering Jobs

California is one of the most lucrative places in the United States for architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals due to increasing job opportunities in different fields, especially engineering. With the increasing number of residential, commercial, and public construction projects, the demand for skilled AEC professionals, including mechanical engineers, is rising. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 19,800 mechanical engineering job openings are expected annually in the country. Moreover, the job outlook for mechanical engineering professionals will likely grow by 11 percent in the next ten years. Follow along if you’re looking for entry-level mechanical engineering jobs or planning a job shift as we discuss some frequently asked questions about this field. 

Mechanical Engineering Jobs: How to get started 

Aspiring mechanical engineering professionals should gain the required and relevant educational qualifications, such as a bachelor’s or associate degree, in the respective mechanical engineering field. You can excel in your career by acquiring additional credentials and certifications, such as the assistive design certificate, professional engineering (PE) license, and CAD and digital manufacturing certificate.  

Work on gaining a diverse skill set to set yourself apart from other job candidates and optimize your work competencies. A successful mechanical engineering professional must have some essential qualities, including excellent listening, creativity, mechanical, and problem-solving skills, to perform all the job responsibilities easily and conveniently. 

Top Mechanical Engineering FAQs

1. What disciplines fall under mechanical engineering?

The top five branches that fall under mechanical engineering are design, mechanics, thermodynamics, materials, and manufacturing. Please note that mechanical engineering isn’t limited to these fields as it has other disciplines, including acoustics, biotechnology, control systems, and structural analysis.

2. What is my job outlook? 

With growing construction activities and the demand for technology in the United States, the job outlook for mechanical engineering has been positive, offering jobs across different fields within mechanical engineering. Some of the country’s top positions for mechanical engineering professionals include mechanical engineers, biomedical engineers, research engineers, and mechanical engineering managers. 

3. What qualifications do I need?

As mentioned above, you can opt for a four-year bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, engineering physics, civil engineering, or biomedical engineering, followed by a two-year master’s degree in any field of specialization, such as engineering project management or computer-aided design. 

4. What skills are needed for entry-level mechanical engineering jobs?

Earning a degree or certification may not be enough to find entry-level mechanical engineering jobs, meaning you need to work diligently to gain and enhance your skills. Opt for a variety of transferable skills that help you efficiently perform different job responsibilities. Some of the top mechanical engineering qualities and skills are:

  • technical design 
  • verbal and written communication 
  • business and industry sector awareness
  • teamwork 
  • critical and analytical thinking 
  • data analysis 
  • strategic planning and project management

5. How much can I expect to earn?

Mechanical engineering professionals can make over $95,000 a year on average. But the salary range can vary depending on different factors, including experience level, geographical location, employer, and educational credentials. With ten or more years of experience in mechanical engineering jobs, you can earn as high as $113,000 in the United States. 

How to Apply for Mechanical Engineering Jobs in California

The best way to apply for mechanical engineering jobs in California is by signing up with a professional engineering staffing agency like Certis Solutions. It provides exclusive access to top employers and/or clients to help you be part of some of the top projects in the Golden State and around the country. 

Certis Solutions provides a comprehensive range of recruitment services, including resume building, interview preparation, and candidate skill enhancement to make you stand out among other job aspirants. They understand your professional and personal goals to find a job that matches your expectations. 
To find entry-level mechanical engineering jobs in California, visit Certis Solutions today. You can also explore its wide range of services and the types of AEC firms it works with to help candidates find their dream AEC jobs.