Introduction to Guidance on the ICE Attributes
This articles provides guidance on the Civil Engineering ICE Attributes. The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) is a professional organisation for civil engineers, and it has established a set of attributes that its members are expected to demonstrate in their professional practice. These attributes are essential for individuals seeking to become Chartered Members of ICE, which is a recognition of their expertise and commitment to the high standards in the field of civil engineering. These attributes are listed below with links to the relevant section:
The following article provides an overview of each of the attributes along with some examples to help you with your initial professional development and preparation for the professional review. This is not an exhaustive list so if anyone has any suggestions to add then please contact us as this will help improve the guidance and information available to engineers.
Understanding and practical application of engineering
This attribute requires the candidate to demonstrate a deep understanding of engineering principles and their practical application. The candidate should be able to use this knowledge to develop innovative solutions to complex problems. To pass this attribute, the candidate must demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles of engineering and show their ability to apply these principles in practical situations.
The attribute is divided into sub-attributes as listed below. Here are some examples of how to develop / achieve / demonstrate each sub-attribute related to 'Understanding and Practical Application of Engineering' at chartered level for the ICE:
A) Maintain and extend knowledge of engineering theory and practice, and how technology assists its application:
Regularly attend relevant webinars, seminars, and workshops to stay up to date with the latest engineering theories, practices, and technologies.
Read industry publications and academic journals to keep up to date with developments in the field.
Undertake relevant training and professional development courses to expand knowledge and skills.
B) Solve engineering problems using a sound theoretical approach, based on evidence, and contribute to continuous improvement:
Apply a structured problem-solving approach that is evidence-based and supported by relevant data and research.
Regularly review and reflect on past projects and experiences to identify opportunities for improvement and learning.
Actively seek feedback and input from colleagues and stakeholders to improve solutions and processes. Think of solutions and improvements and then implement them on the next project.
C) Engage in the creation and/or introduction of new, advancing, or improved techniques and technology:
Identify emerging trends and technologies that could improve engineering solutions and processes.
Research and evaluate new tools, techniques, and approaches to determine their potential value and impact.
Advocate for the adoption of new or improved techniques and technologies within the organisation or industry.
D) Identify, review, and select techniques, procedures, and methods to undertake engineering tasks:
Evaluate and compare different techniques and methods to determine the most appropriate approach for a given task or project.
Regularly review and reflect on past projects and experiences to identify opportunities for improvement and learning.
Seek input and advice from colleagues and experts to identify and assess potential solutions.
E) Take an active role in the identification and definition of requirements, challenges, risks, and opportunities and undertake appropriate investigation and action:
Actively engage with clients, stakeholders, and colleagues to understand their needs, expectations, and requirements
Conduct thorough assessments and analyses to identify potential hazards and mitigate risks.
Conduct feasibility studies and assessments to determine the viability and potential impact of potential solutions.
F) Contribute to the design and development of engineering solutions, implement those solutions, and evaluate their effectiveness in the context of the whole project life cycle:
Contribute to the implementation of engineering solutions, managing timelines, budgets, and resources.
Participate in the design and development of engineering solutions, providing input and feedback to improve effectiveness and efficiency.
Regularly review and evaluate the effectiveness of engineering solutions, making adjustments and improvements as needed.
G) Undertake the design, development and implementation of engineering solutions and evaluate their effectiveness in the context of the whole project life cycle:
Take ownership of the design and development of engineering solutions, ensuring they are aligned with project goals and requirements.
Be largely responsible for the implementation of engineering solutions, managing timelines, budgets, and resources.
Conduct thorough evaluations of engineering solutions, analysing their impact and effectiveness, and making recommendations for improvements.
H) Exercise sound independent engineering judgement:
Use a structured, evidence-based approach to make sound engineering decisions.
Balance technical requirements with project constraints, such as time, budget, and resources
Seek input and feedback from colleagues and experts to validate decisions and ensure alignment with industry best practices.
In summary, it is important to demonstrate an understanding and practical application of engineering as a civil engineer. Hopefully, the examples provided above will help with your initial professional development (IPD). Engineering covers a wide area of topics, and we have a number of courses available to help with the basics of different areas of engineering, for example, if you are interested in learning about the basics of structural design, such as Eurocode, framing, loads, analysis, design, drawings, and reports, and checking, then please join our free course: ‘Structural Design Basics in Engineering.’
Management and leadership
This attribute requires the candidate to demonstrate the ability to manage projects, people, and resources effectively. The candidate should be able to provide leadership and direction to their team, set objectives, delegate tasks, and motivate team members to achieve their goals. To pass this attribute, the candidate must demonstrate the ability to manage projects effectively, including scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and communication.
The attribute is divided into sub-attributes as listed below. Here are some examples of how to develop / achieve / demonstrate each sub-attribute related to Management and Leadership at chartered level for the ICE:
A) Planning work and resources needed to enable effective implementation of engineering tasks and projects:
Developing a detailed project plan outlining the required resources, timelines, and milestones, and communicating this plan effectively to all relevant stakeholders.
Conducting a thorough risk assessment of the project to identify potential obstacles and develop contingency plans.
Identifying and prioritising tasks based on their impact on the project timeline and resource requirements.
B) Managing the planning and organisation of tasks and resources:
Assigning tasks and responsibilities to team members based on their skills and experience.
Developing effective communication channels to ensure all team members are aware of their responsibilities and the project timeline.
Monitoring progress against the project plan and adjusting resources as needed to ensure project milestones are met.
C) Managing (organising, directing, and controlling), programme or schedule, tasks, and resources:
Creating a detailed project schedule that outlines all tasks and their dependencies.
Monitoring progress against the project schedule and adjusting resources as needed to ensure project milestones are met.
Conducting regular status meetings with the project team to review progress and adjust the schedule as necessary.
D) Managing teams or technical specialisms:
Providing clear direction and support to team members to ensure they understand their roles and responsibilities.
Developing and implementing training to enhance the skills and knowledge of team members.
Encouraging collaboration and communication among team members to maximise productivity and quality.
E) Leading or influencing teams / technical specialisms, understanding the limits of their skills and knowledge:
Providing mentorship and guidance to team members to help them develop their skills and expertise.
Identifying and addressing skill gaps within the team to ensure all members are able to contribute effectively.
Encouraging innovation and creativity among team members to drive continuous improvement.
F) Assisting others to meet changing technical and managerial needs:
Providing guidance and support to team members as they adapt to changes in project scope or requirements.
Encouraging a culture of continuous learning and development to ensure team members are equipped to meet changing needs.
Providing resources and tools to support team members as they navigate new challenges.
G) Developing others to meet changing technical and managerial needs:
Identifying areas where team members can benefit from additional training or development opportunities.
Developing and implementing training to enhance the skills and knowledge of team members.
Providing mentorship and guidance to team members to help them grow in their roles.
H) Managing quality processes and contributing to quality improvements:
Establishing and monitoring quality control processes to ensure project deliverables meet or exceed client expectations.
Conducting regular audits of project deliverables to identify areas for improvement.
Working with team members to implement improvements to processes and procedures that enhance project quality.
I) Demonstrating continuous quality improvement and promoting best practice:
Encouraging a culture of continuous improvement within the team.
Leading by example in identifying areas for improvement and implementing changes that enhance project quality.
Staying up to date with industry best practices and sharing this knowledge with team members to ensure they are equipped to deliver high-quality work.
In summary, it is important to have experience in management as a civil engineer. Hopefully, the examples provided above will help with your initial professional development (IPD). If you are interested in learning about the basics of management, such as engineering management, leadership, managing tasks and resources, Plan Do Check Act, and SMART goals, then please join our free course: ‘Management Basics in Engineering.’
Commercial ability
This attribute requires the candidate to demonstrate an understanding of commercial and financial aspects of civil engineering projects. The candidate should be able to manage budgets, understand contracts, and understand the commercial implications of their decisions. To pass this attribute, the candidate must demonstrate an understanding of commercial ability.
The attribute is divided into sub-attributes as listed below. Here are some examples of how to develop / achieve / demonstrate each sub-attribute related to commercial ability at chartered level for the ICE:
A) Manage, prepare, and control costs/budgets of engineering tasks or projects:
Develop detailed cost estimates for your projects or tasks, including all relevant components such as materials, labour, equipment, and contingency funds.
Monitor and control project costs on an ongoing basis, ensuring that actual costs do not exceed the budgeted amount.
Identify and implement cost-saving measures where appropriate, such as sourcing more cost-effective materials or streamlining work processes.
B) Manage, prepare, and control costs/budgets of a significant engineering task or project:
Develop a detailed budget plan for the entire project, taking into account all costs associated with design, procurement, construction, and commissioning.
Monitor and control project costs on an ongoing basis, ensuring that actual costs do not exceed the budgeted amount.
Report regularly on project costs to stakeholders, such as clients, and address any concerns or issues that arise.
C) Use sound knowledge of statutory and commercial frameworks within their own area of responsibility and have an appreciation of other commercial arrangements:
Understand the regulatory and legal requirements that impact your area of responsibility, such as environmental regulations or planning permissions.
Understand the commercial arrangements that apply to your area of responsibility, such as contract terms or procurement processes.
Understand the commercial and financial implications of your decisions and actions and be able to communicate these effectively to stakeholders.
D) Demonstrate sound judgement on statutory, contractual, and commercial issues in relation to own area of responsibility:
Analyse and interpret relevant legislation, regulations, and contract terms to ensure compliance and mitigate risk.
Identify potential contractual or commercial issues that could impact the project or task and take appropriate action to mitigate or address these issues.
Ensure that all contractual and commercial agreements are clear, transparent, and fair to all parties involved.
In summary, it is important to have a knowledge of commercial and legal as a civil engineer. Hopefully, the examples provided above will help with your initial professional development (IPD). If you are interested in learning about the basics of commercial, such as procurement, contracts, legal, financial, and insurance, then please join our free course: ‘Commercial Basics in Engineering.’
Health, safety, and welfare
This attribute requires the candidate to demonstrate an understanding of health, safety, and welfare issues related to civil engineering projects. The candidate should be able to identify and manage risks to health and safety and ensure that projects are designed and constructed to ensure the welfare of those who use them. To pass this attribute, the candidate must demonstrate an understanding of health and safety regulations and best practices and show their ability to manage risks effectively.
The attribute is divided into sub-attributes as listed below. Here are some examples of how to develop / achieve / demonstrate each sub-attribute related to Health, Safety, and Welfare at chartered level for the ICE, with a focus on the specific skills mentioned:
A) Demonstrate a sound knowledge of legislation, hazards, and safe systems of work:
Ensure that you are up to date with relevant legislation and regulations, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act, and that you understand the implications of these laws for your work.
Identify hazards and risks associated with your work and implement appropriate measures to control and mitigate these risks.
Develop and implement safe systems of work, such as procedures for working at height or handling hazardous materials and ensure that these systems are communicated effectively to your team.
B) Manage risks:
Develop and implement risk management strategies that are appropriate for your project or task, such as conducting risk assessments or implementing safety-critical communications protocols.
Monitor risks and ensure that appropriate action is taken to mitigate or eliminate them.
Communicate effectively with stakeholders, such as contractors or clients, to ensure that risks are managed effectively throughout the project lifecycle.
C) Manage health, safety, and welfare within their own area of responsibility:
Ensure that your team members are appropriately trained and equipped to carry out their work safely.
Conduct safety inspections and reviews to identify and address potential hazards or risks.
Implement effective emergency procedures to ensure that all team members know what to do in the event of an emergency.
Ensure that appropriate welfare facilities are available for your team members, such as rest areas or first aid facilities.
D) Contribute to improvements in health, safety, and welfare:
Identify opportunities for improvement, such as implementing new safety technologies or improving working conditions.
Engage with relevant stakeholders, such as industry bodies or government agencies, to promote best practice and share knowledge.
Continuously review and update your own knowledge and skills, to ensure that you are up to date with the latest health, safety, and welfare practices. Communicate this information back to your team.
E) Demonstrate leadership by promoting good practice and improvements in health, safety, and welfare:
Advocate for health, safety, and welfare issues within your organisation and industry, and raise awareness among stakeholders.
Lead by example, by demonstrating a strong commitment to health, safety, and welfare in your own work and encouraging others to do the same.
Mentor and train team members to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills necessary to work safely and promote good practice in their own work.
In summary, it is important to have experience in health, safety, and risk management as a civil engineer. Hopefully, the examples provided above will help with your initial professional development (IPD). If you are interested in learning about the basics of health and safety, such as risk assessments, method statements, and legislation, then please join our free course: ‘Health and Safety Basics in Engineering.’
Sustainable development
This attribute requires the candidate to demonstrate an understanding of sustainable development principles in their application to civil engineering projects. The candidate should be able to identify and mitigate environmental impacts, consider the social and economic impacts of their decisions, and promote sustainable solutions. To pass this attribute, the candidate must demonstrate an understanding of sustainable development principles and show their ability to apply these principles in practical situations.
The attribute is divided into sub-attributes as listed below. Here are some examples of how to develop / achieve / demonstrate each sub-attribute related to 'Sustainable Development' at chartered level for the ICE:
A) Understand the principles of sustainable development and apply them in work:
Learn about the principles of sustainable development and apply these to engineering projects.
Consider environmental, social, and economic impacts when making decisions on engineering projects.
Apply life cycle thinking to engineering projects, considering the environmental impacts of the project from design to end-of-life.
B) Manage engineering activities that contribute to sustainable development and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs):
Demonstrate knowledge of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and how they relate to engineering.
Develop engineering solutions that contribute to the achievement of one or more UNSDGs.
Identify and manage the environmental, social, and economic impacts of engineering projects to ensure sustainable development is achieved.
C) Take a professional and responsible role in improvements that support sustainable development and reduce resource demand, set in the context of a whole project life cycle:
Promote sustainable development within the engineering profession.
Implement sustainable practices in the design, construction, and operation of engineering projects.
Minimise resource use and waste generation during the life cycle of engineering projects.
Encourage and facilitate collaboration with stakeholders to achieve sustainable development outcomes.
In summary, it is important to have experience in sustainability as a civil engineer. Hopefully, the examples provided above will help with your initial professional development (IPD). If you are interested in learning about the basics of sustainability, such as the three pillars (social, economic, environmental), and assessment methods and improvements in sustainability, then please join our free course: ‘Sustainability Basics in Engineering.’
Interpersonal skills and communication
This attribute requires the candidate to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with a range of stakeholders. The candidate should be able to present information in a clear and understandable way, listen actively, and respond appropriately to feedback. To pass this attribute, the candidate must demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills and show their ability to build effective relationships with colleagues, clients, and other stakeholders.
The attribute is divided into sub-attributes as listed below. Here are some examples of how to develop / achieve / demonstrate each sub-attribute related to 'Interpersonal Skills and Communication' at chartered level for the ICE are:
A) Communicate well with others at all levels including effective use of English*, orally and in writing*
Write clear, concise, and accurate emails, reports, and technical documents.
Deliver effective presentations to technical and non-technical audiences.
Use active listening skills and ask questions to ensure understanding during meetings and discussions.
Use appropriate language and tone in written and oral communication to convey professionalism and respect.
B) Discuss ideas and plans competently and with confidence
Participate in meetings and discussions to contribute ideas and insights to engineering projects.
Seek feedback and constructive criticism to improve the quality of ideas and plans.
Present ideas and plans with confidence and clarity, using appropriate visual aids and supporting evidence.
C) Communicate new concepts and ideas to technical and non-technical stakeholders
Tailor communication style and language to the audience to ensure understanding.
Use analogies or real-world examples to simplify complex technical concepts.
Provide context and background information to non-technical stakeholders to help them understand the relevance and impact of engineering concepts.
D) Demonstrate effective personal and social skills
Build positive and constructive relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.
Demonstrate emotional intelligence by showing empathy, respect, and understanding in interpersonal interactions.
Adapt to different work styles and personalities to facilitate effective collaboration and teamwork.
E) Demonstrate awareness of diversity and inclusion
Acknowledge and respect individual differences in cultural background, age, gender, and other aspects of diversity.
Avoid making assumptions or stereotyping individuals.
Actively seek out diverse perspectives and opinions to enhance problem-solving and decision-making processes.
F) Proactively manage diversity and inclusion
Advocate for and support suitable initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion within the workplace.
Identify and address barriers to diversity and inclusion.
Ensure that communication and collaboration processes are inclusive and accessible to all stakeholders.
In summary, it is important to have an ability in communication as a civil engineer. Hopefully, the examples provided above will help with your initial professional development (IPD). If you are interested in learning about the basics of communication, such as verbal communication, emails, reports, presentations, calculations, and drawings, then please join our free course: ‘Communication Basics in Engineering.’
Professional commitment
This attribute requires the candidate to demonstrate a strong commitment to their profession, including ongoing learning and development. The candidate should be able to demonstrate a willingness to take responsibility for their own professional development, and a commitment to the highest standards of ethical and professional behaviour. To pass this attribute, the candidate must demonstrate a strong commitment to their profession, including ongoing learning and development, and show their ability to act in an ethical and professional manner in all aspects of their work.
The attribute is divided into sub-attributes as listed below. Here are some examples of how to develop / achieve / demonstrate each sub-attribute related to 'Professional Commitment' at chartered level for the ICE:
A) Understand and comply with the ICE Code of Conduct:
Familiarise yourself with the ICE Code of Conduct and adhere to its principles and standards.
Apply the Code of Conduct in your work and dealings with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders.
Act with integrity, impartiality, and transparency in all professional activities.
B) Understand the ethical issues that may arise in their role and carry out their responsibilities in an ethical manner:
Be aware of the ethical principles that govern the engineering profession and apply them in your work.
Identify ethical issues that may arise in your role and address them in a responsible and professional manner.
Promote ethical behaviour in your organisation and the wider engineering community.
C) Plan, carry out and record Continuing Professional Development (CPD) necessary to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice:
Develop a personal CPD plan that reflects your professional goals and the requirements of your role.
Participate in relevant training, seminars, conferences, and other activities to enhance your knowledge and skills.
Record your CPD activities and reflect on their impact on your professional development.
D) Identify the limits of their personal knowledge and skills:
Recognise the areas where your knowledge and skills may be limited or require improvement.
Seek advice and guidance from colleagues, mentors, and experts in the field.
Undertake training and professional development activities to address any knowledge or skills gaps.
E) Exercise sound holistic independent judgment and accept responsibility:
Make informed decisions based on evidence, analysis, and professional judgment.
Accept responsibility for your decisions and actions and their impact on stakeholders.
Consider the wider social, environmental, and economic impacts of your work and take appropriate actions to address them.
F) Engage with ICE activities:
Participate in ICE activities, such as committees, panels, and working groups, to contribute to the development of the profession.
Engage with the wider engineering community through networking, mentoring, and knowledge sharing.
Promote the value of the engineering profession and its contribution to society.
In summary, it is important to have knowledge of the professional standards and engineering responsibility as a structural engineer. Hopefully, the examples provided above will help with your initial professional development (IPD).