Will AI replace Civil Engineers?

Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 70 official task statements scored for Civil Engineers (United States, SOC 17-2051), 15% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 38 out of 100 (range 32–43, band: low). That is a statement about tasks, not about headcount: this measures what AI could do, not whether any employer adopts it, whether the law allows it, or whether doing the routine parts faster creates more demand for the human parts. Figures are from release 2026-q4.1.

Which tasks in “Civil Engineers” can AI already do?

The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Develop or assist in the development of transportation-related computer software or computer processes” (83/100, very high); “Estimate quantities and cost of materials, equipment, or labor to determine project feasibility” (66/100, high); “Prepare administrative, technical, or statistical reports on traffic-operation matters, such as accidents, safety measures, or pedestrian volume or practices” (66/100, high). Each score comes from five published 0–4 ratings turned into a number by a published formula, and each carries the model's one-sentence reason on the page.

Which tasks in “Civil Engineers” stay human?

About 61% of this job's task weight sits in work that scores low for AI exposure. The lowest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Direct the surveying, staking, or laying-out of construction projects” (0/100, minimal); “Investigate or test specific construction project materials to determine compliance to specifications or standards” (0/100, minimal); “Test soils or materials to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations, concrete, asphalt, or steel” (0/100, minimal). Low scores usually mean the task needs a body in a room, a legally accountable human, or trust built in real time. Those are the three things the scoring rubric treats as gates rather than obstacles.

What should someone working in “Civil Engineers” do about AI?

Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 15% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 61% is not. The practical move is to spend more of your week on the tasks that score low, the ones above, and to get fluent at directing AI through the tasks that score high, because those are the parts that change whether or not you are ready for them. This page does not predict your job, and nothing here is career advice tailored to you: the score describes the occupation, not the person.

How is the AI exposure score for Civil Engineers calculated?

Each official task statement for the occupation is rated on five published 0–4 dimensions (output replicability, physical embodiment, licensed accountability, real-time human trust, and data availability) by claude-opus-5 using scoring prompt task_scoring_v1.0. The model never writes the score; a published formula turns the five ratings into a 0–100 number, so every score can be recomputed by hand. The occupation figure is the importance-weighted mean across 70 scored tasks. The prompt, the rubric, the formula and the full dataset are published at https://futureproof.collab365.com/method and https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1 under CC BY 4.0.

US dataswitch to UK

Civil Engineers

providing technical direction or supervision to junior engineers, planning and designing transportation or hydraulic systems or structures and identifying design alternatives for the development of new water resources. If that's your week, this page is about your job.

The honest answer

AI changes the edges of this job, not the middle: providing technical direction or supervision to junior engineers is work software can't reach.

Your move: what you can actually do about this ↓

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI: 15%
changing shape: 24%
staying human: 61%

These bars are tasks changing hands, not people being counted out. The ledger below shows which.

Whole-job exposure score 38 out of 100 (32–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, across 70 scored tasks. The number is the support for the sentence above it, not a headline about anyone’s future.

How we know this

What is measured: Every published task statement for civil engineers is rated on five dimensions: can a model produce the output, does the work need a body in a room, does it need a legally accountable person, does it depend on a person being trusted in the moment, and how much data exists. A published formula turns those five ratings into the score; the model never writes the number.

How the bar is built: Each task’s share of the bar is its published importance weight, so a task you do all day counts for more than one you do twice a year.

Release: 2026-q4.1, scores computed 2026-08-04. Read the full method.

What shifts is preparing administrative, technical or statistical reports on traffic-operation matters, such as accidents, safety measures or pedestrian volume or practices. This page scores what today's tools actually do, not headlines.

Your week, as this page understands it

Perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and overseeing construction and maintenance of building structures and facilities, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, harbors, channels, dams, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage systems. The job title says “civil engineers”. The real job is the part underneath: providing technical direction or supervision to junior engineers. That is the thing someone has to be right about.

The exposed part of this job is specific, and we won’t pretend it is coming back. But civil engineers is not one task. It is 70 scored ones, and they are nowhere near equally exposed. The most durable of them, on this evidence, is providing technical direction or supervision to junior engineers, and the ledger below shows exactly why.

Where the work sits, by task weight

shifting to AI: 15%
changing shape: 24%
staying human: 61%

These bars are tasks changing hands, not people being counted out. The ledger below shows which.

How we know this

How the bar is built: Each task’s share of the bar is its published importance weight, so a task you do all day counts for more than one you do twice a year.

Release: 2026-q4.1, scores computed 2026-08-04. Read the full method.

Your job, task by task

These are the official task statements for this occupation, in plain English, sorted by what the evidence says is happening to each one. The official wording sits under every line so you can check the rewrite against it.

6 of this occupation's scored task statements carry a score that was measured under a different occupation's context, because the statement is shared between jobs and has only been scored once so far. Each one names the occupation it was measured under in the free routes below; none is presented as a measurement for this job.
Task clusters are not derived in this release, so the task-cluster field is empty and no Collab365 Space routing is attached to this occupation yet.

Shifting to AI

10 tasks

Tasks today’s tools can already do most of. This is the part we will not soften: where these rows are the bulk of your week, the week changes.

Preparing administrative, technical or statistical reports on traffic-operation matters, such as accidents, safety measures or pedestrian volume or practices
This is reading one thing and writing another: administrative, technical or statistical reports in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Prepare administrative, technical, or statistical reports on traffic-operation matters, such as accidents, safety measures, or pedestrian volume or practices.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: These reports are built from traffic and accident data already collected, which software can summarise.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Estimating transportation project costs
This is reading one thing and writing another: transportation project costs in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Estimate transportation project costs.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Cost estimating for road projects is calculation using published unit rates and project quantities.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Preparing project budgets, schedules or specifications for labor or materials
This is reading one thing and writing another: project budgets, schedules or specifications in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Prepare project budgets, schedules, or specifications for labor or materials.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Budgets, schedules and material specifications are assembled from project data using standard formats.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Modeling transportation scenarios to evaluate the impacts of activities
This is reading one thing and writing another: transportation scenarios in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Model transportation scenarios to evaluate the impacts of activities such as new development or to identify possible solutions to transportation problems.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Transport modelling is computer work using documented methods and data already collected.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Changing shape

17 tasks

Tasks where the machine takes the producing and a person keeps the checking, the deciding, or the answering-for-it. For most jobs this is the biggest group, and it is where "transformation, not termination" is literally visible.

Checking construction plans, design calculations or cost estimations to ensure completeness, accuracy or conformity to engineering standards or practices
The software now makes the first pass at construction plans, design calculations or cost estimations, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Check construction plans, design calculations, or cost estimations to ensure completeness, accuracy, or conformity to engineering standards or practices.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Checking plans and calculations for errors against standards is exactly the careful comparison software does well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Investigating traffic problems and recommending methods to improve traffic flow or safety
The software now makes the first pass at traffic problems, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Investigate traffic problems and recommend methods to improve traffic flow or safety.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 42 out of 100 (35–49 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Traffic problems are studied with well documented methods and data, though an engineer stands behind the recommendation.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Reviewing and critiquing proposals, plans or designs related to water or wastewater treatment systems
The software now makes the first pass at proposals, plans or designs, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review and critique proposals, plans, or designs related to water or wastewater treatment systems.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Reviewing and critiquing treatment plant proposals is close reading against standards, which software handles well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Staying human

43 tasks

Tasks that stay with a person, because they happen in the physical world, because the rules need someone accountable, or because the value is that a specific person does them.

Designing or preparing plans for new transportation systems or parts of systems
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for plans, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 5 · Core
Source: “Design or prepare plans for new transportation systems or parts of systems, such as airports, commuter trains, highways, streets, bridges, drainage structures, or roadway lighting.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Software helps produce plan sets, but a licensed engineer must produce and stand behind the design.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Providing technical direction or supervision to junior engineers
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for technical direction, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 5 · Core
Source: “Provide technical direction or supervision to junior engineers, engineering or computer-aided design (CAD) technicians, or other technical personnel.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 13 out of 100 (9–17 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: someone qualified has to answer for it; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Bringing on junior engineers and technicians depends on a working relationship with those specific people.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 3/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Planning alteration or modification of existing transportation structures to improve safety or function
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for alteration, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Plan alteration or modification of existing transportation structures to improve safety or function.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Plans to alter an existing road or bridge must be produced under a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.

Show the other 60 tasks

Developing or assisting in the development of transportation-related computer software or computer processes
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: the development of transportation-related computer software in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 3 · Supplemental
Source: “Develop or assist in the development of transportation-related computer software or computer processes.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 83 out of 100 (79–87 allowing for uncertainty): very high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Writing software is one of the things current tools do best, with huge amounts of public code to learn from.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 0/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Estimating quantities and cost of materials
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: quantities in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Estimate quantities and cost of materials, equipment, or labor to determine project feasibility.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Working out material quantities and costs from drawings is calculation over documented information.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Writing technical reports or publications related to water resources development or water use efficiency
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: technical reports in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Write technical reports or publications related to water resources development or water use efficiency.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Technical writing from analysis results is one of the strongest uses of current tools.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Gathering and analyzing water use data to forecast water demand
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: water use data in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Gather and analyze water use data to forecast water demand.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Forecasting water demand from usage records is statistical work over data already collected.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conducting cost-benefit analyses for the construction of water supply systems
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: cost-benefit analyses in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Conduct cost-benefit analyses for the construction of water supply systems, runoff collection networks, water and wastewater treatment plants, or wastewater collection systems.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Cost-benefit analysis of water infrastructure is spreadsheet work using project and price data.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Analyzing survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, aerial photography or other topographical or geologic data
shifting to AI
This is reading one thing and writing another: survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints in, a record out. That is the shape today's tools are built for.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Analyze survey reports, maps, drawings, blueprints, aerial photography, or other topographical or geologic data.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 66 out of 100 (62–70 allowing for uncertainty): high exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Reading maps, surveys and drawings to pull out what matters is document analysis a computer does well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Reviewing development plans to determine potential traffic impact
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at development plans, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Review development plans to determine potential traffic impact.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Working out the traffic effect of a development is modelling from submitted plans and known counts.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Analyzing environmental impact statements for transportation projects
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at environmental impact statements, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Analyze environmental impact statements for transportation projects.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Environmental impact statements are long documents, and reading them for the key issues suits software well.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Identifying design alternatives for the development of new water resources
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at design alternatives, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Identify design alternatives for the development of new water resources.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Listing and comparing options for new water sources is research and analysis over available data.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing plans for new water resources or water efficiency programs
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at plans, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Develop plans for new water resources or water efficiency programs.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Water resource and efficiency plans are drafted from documented demand data and published practice.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Performing mathematical modeling of underground or surface water resources
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at mathematical modeling of underground, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 3 · Supplemental
Source: “Perform mathematical modeling of underground or surface water resources, such as floodplains, ocean coastlines, streams, rivers, or wetlands.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Mathematical modelling of rivers, floodplains and coastlines is computer work with established methods.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Performing hydrological analyses, using three-dimensional simulation software
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at hydrological analyses, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Perform hydrological analyses, using three-dimensional simulation software, to model the movement of water or forecast the dispersion of chemical pollutants in the water supply.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Hydrological simulation is computer modelling using established software and documented methods.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Performing hydraulic analyses of water supply systems or water distribution networks to model flow characteristics
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at hydraulic analyses of water supply systems, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Perform hydraulic analyses of water supply systems or water distribution networks to model flow characteristics, test for pressure losses, or to identify opportunities to mitigate risks and improve operational efficiency.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Hydraulic network analysis is computer modelling with established methods and utility data.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conducting feasibility studies for the construction of facilities
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at feasibility studies, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Conduct feasibility studies for the construction of facilities, such as water supply systems, runoff collection networks, water and wastewater treatment plants, or wastewater collection systems.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Feasibility studies pull together documented costs, demands and constraints into an assessment.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Analyzing the efficiency of water delivery structures
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at the efficiency of water delivery structures, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Analyze the efficiency of water delivery structures, such as dams, tainter gates, canals, pipes, penstocks, or cofferdams.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Analysing how efficiently dams, canals and pipes move water is calculation from operating data.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Analyzing and recommending sludge treatment or disposal methods
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at sludge treatment, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Analyze and recommend sludge treatment or disposal methods.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Sludge treatment and disposal options are well documented, so comparing them is research and analysis.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Analyzing and recommending chemical, biological or other wastewater treatment methods to prepare water for industrial or domestic
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at chemical, biological or other wastewater treatment methods, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Analyze and recommend chemical, biological, or other wastewater treatment methods to prepare water for industrial or domestic use.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Comparing treatment methods draws on well documented chemistry and process options.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Identifying environmental risks and developing risk management strategies for civil engineering projects
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at environmental risks, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Identify environmental risks and develop risk management strategies for civil engineering projects.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 56 out of 100 (49–63 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Risk identification draws on documented hazards and past projects, though an engineer stays answerable for the judgement.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Computing load and grading requirements
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at load, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Compute load and grade requirements, water flow rates, or material stress factors to determine design specifications.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 52 out of 100 (45–59 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: These are textbook calculations software handles well, though the design they feed must be done under a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 4/4.
Evaluating the operation and maintenance of water or wastewater systems to identify ways to improve their efficiency
changing shape
The software now makes the first pass at the operation, but someone has to be answerable for the result, and it cannot be the software. So the job becomes checking and deciding rather than producing.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Evaluate the operation and maintenance of water or wastewater systems to identify ways to improve their efficiency.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 42 out of 100 (35–49 allowing for uncertainty): partial exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Efficiency reviews run on operating data, though an engineer signs off and sometimes visits the plant.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conducting studies of traffic patterns or environmental conditions to identify engineering problems and assess potential project impact
staying human
The ratings behind this row put studies of traffic patterns well outside what today's tools can do on their own.
importance 3 · Supplemental
Source: “Conduct studies of traffic patterns or environmental conditions to identify engineering problems and assess potential project impact.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 38 out of 100 (31–45 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; mistakes that are cheap to catch.
The rating behind it: Analysing traffic or environmental data is desk work, but gathering it often means being out in the field.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Developing plans to deconstruct damaged or obsolete roadways or other transportation structures in a manner that is environmentally sound or prepares the land for sustainable development
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for plans, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 3 · Supplemental
Source: “Develop plans to deconstruct damaged or obsolete roadways or other transportation structures in a manner that is environmentally sound or prepares the land for sustainable development.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 38 out of 100 (31–45 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Demolition and site restoration plans can be drafted from documented practice, though an engineer stays answerable.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Preparing final project layout drawings that include details
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for final project layout drawings, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Prepare final project layout drawings that include details such as stress calculations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Layout drawings with stress details must be produced under a licensed engineer even when software does the drafting.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing or selecting equipment for use in wastewater processing to ensure compliance with government standards
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for equipment, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Design or select equipment for use in wastewater processing to ensure compliance with government standards.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Equipment selection for wastewater must meet government standards under a licensed engineer's responsibility.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Analyzing storm water or floodplain drainage systems to control erosion
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for storm water, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Analyze storm water or floodplain drainage systems to control erosion, stabilize river banks, repair channel streams, or design bridges.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Storm water and river work mixes analysis with design that a licensed engineer must produce.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing water storage tanks or other water storage facilities
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for water storage tanks, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Design water storage tanks or other water storage facilities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Water tank and storage design must be produced under a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing water runoff collection networks
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for water runoff collection networks, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Design water runoff collection networks, water supply channels, or water supply system networks.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Runoff and water supply network design must be produced under a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing water or wastewater lift stations
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for water, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Design water or wastewater lift stations, including water wells.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Lift station and well design must be produced under a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing water distribution systems for potable or non-potable water
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for water distribution systems, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Design water distribution systems for potable or non-potable water.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Water distribution design must be produced under a licensed engineer, even with modelling software doing the sums.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing pumping systems, pumping stations, pipelines, force mains or sewers for the collection of wastewater
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for systems, pumping stations, pipelines, force mains or sewers, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Design pumping systems, pumping stations, pipelines, force mains, or sewers for the collection of wastewater.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Sewer and pumping system design must be produced under a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing energy-efficient or environmentally sound civil structures
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for energy-efficient, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Design energy-efficient or environmentally sound civil structures.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Green design options are well documented, but the structural design itself must be signed off by a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing or engineering drainage, erosion or sedimentation control systems for transportation projects
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for drainage, erosion or sedimentation control systems, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Design or engineer drainage, erosion, or sedimentation control systems for transportation projects.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Drainage and erosion control design must be produced under a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing transportation systems or structures with sustainable materials or products
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for transportation systems, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Design transportation systems or structures with sustainable materials or products, such as porous pavement or bioretention structures.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Sustainable material choices are documented, but the design itself must come from a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Planning and designing transportation or hydraulic systems or structures
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for transportation, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Plan and design transportation or hydraulic systems or structures, using computer-assisted design or drawing tools.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 36 out of 100 (29–43 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Drafting tools can generate much of the layout, but the finished design has to come from a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Participating in contract bidding, negotiation or administration
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles contract bidding, negotiation or administration and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Participate in contract bidding, negotiation, or administration.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 35 out of 100 (28–42 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Bid documents are largely standard, but negotiating and administering a contract still involves live dealing with people.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Evaluating transportation systems or traffic control devices or lighting systems to determine need for modification or expansion
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for transportation systems, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Evaluate transportation systems or traffic control devices or lighting systems to determine need for modification or expansion.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 32 out of 100 (25–39 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Assessing whether transport systems or signals need changing uses documented criteria plus a look at the site.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Evaluating traffic control devices or lighting systems to determine need for modification or expansion
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for traffic control devices, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Evaluate traffic control devices or lighting systems to determine need for modification or expansion.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 32 out of 100 (25–39 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Judging whether signals or lighting need upgrading uses documented criteria, but often needs a look at the location.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conducting environmental impact studies related to water and wastewater collection
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for environmental impact studies, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Conduct environmental impact studies related to water and wastewater collection, treatment, or distribution.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 32 out of 100 (25–39 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Impact studies combine documented methods with local survey work and carry an engineer's responsibility.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing or engineering systems to efficiently dispose of chemical
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for systems, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 3 · Supplemental
Source: “Design or engineer systems to efficiently dispose of chemical, biological, or other toxic wastes.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 31 out of 100 (24–38 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Toxic waste disposal design is specialised work that must be done under a licensed engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Preparing or presenting public reports on topics
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for public reports, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Prepare or present public reports on topics such as bid proposals, deeds, environmental impact statements, or property and right-of-way descriptions.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 30 out of 100 (23–37 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: reading one thing and writing another; the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: The report itself writes fairly easily, but standing up at a public hearing and answering questions needs a person there.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 3/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Providing technical support on water resource or treatment issues to government agencies
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for technical support, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Provide technical support on water resource or treatment issues to government agencies.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 30 out of 100 (23–37 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Technical support to agencies is partly documented knowledge, but officials expect a named engineer they can question.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Directing engineering activities, ensuring compliance with environmental, safety or other governmental regulations
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for activities, ensuring compliance, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Direct engineering activities, ensuring compliance with environmental, safety, or other governmental regulations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 27 out of 100 (20–34 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Compliance rules are documented, but directing the work and standing behind the outcome falls to a qualified engineer.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing sludge treatment plants
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for sludge treatment plants, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Design sludge treatment plants.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 25 out of 100 (21–29 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Sludge plant design is one-off engineering that a licensed engineer has to produce.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Designing domestic or industrial water or wastewater treatment plants
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for domestic, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Design domestic or industrial water or wastewater treatment plants, including advanced facilities with sequencing batch reactors (SBR), membranes, lift stations, headworks, surge overflow basins, ultraviolet disinfection systems, aerobic digesters, sludge lagoons, or control buildings.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 25 out of 100 (21–29 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Treatment plant design is complex one-off engineering that a licensed engineer has to produce.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Providing technical advice to industrial or managerial personnel regarding design
staying human
The rules require a named, qualified person to answer for technical advice, and that person cannot be a piece of software.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Provide technical advice to industrial or managerial personnel regarding design, construction, program modifications, or structural repairs.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 23 out of 100 (16–30 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; someone qualified has to answer for it; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Advice can be researched, but people take engineering guidance from a named professional they can question.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 1/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conducting water quality studies to identify and characterize water pollutant sources
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: water quality studies, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Conduct water quality studies to identify and characterize water pollutant sources.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 22 out of 100 (15–29 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Analysing results is desk work, but water quality studies need samples collected out in the catchment.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Evaluating construction project materials for compliance with environmental standards
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: construction project materials, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Evaluate construction project materials for compliance with environmental standards.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 22 out of 100 (15–29 allowing for uncertainty): low exposure, medium confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Standards are written down, but judging the actual materials usually means examining them where they are.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Conferring with contractors, utility companies or government agencies to discuss plans, specifications or work schedules
staying human
The value here is that a specific person handles contractors, utility companies or government agencies and stands behind it. That is earned, not computed.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Confer with contractors, utility companies, or government agencies to discuss plans, specifications, or work schedules.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 16 out of 100 (12–20 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Sorting out plans and schedules with contractors and agencies runs on live discussion between people.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 0/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 3/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Developing or implementing engineering solutions to clean up industrial accidents or other contaminated sites
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: solutions, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 3 · Supplemental
Source: “Develop or implement engineering solutions to clean up industrial accidents or other contaminated sites.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 10 out of 100 (6–14 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Cleaning up a contaminated site is hands-on engineering that a licensed professional has to direct.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 2/4 · needs an accountable person 3/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Presenting data, maps or other information at construction-related public hearings or meetings
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: data, maps or other information, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Present data, maps, or other information at construction-related public hearings or meetings.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 7 out of 100 (3–11 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Public hearings mean standing in front of a room and answering questions live.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 2/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 3/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Inspecting project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design specifications and safety or sanitation standards
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: project sites, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Inspect project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design specifications and safety or sanitation standards.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 6 out of 100 (2–10 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Judging whether work matches the design and is safe means walking the site and looking at it.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Inspecting completed transportation projects to ensure safety or compliance with applicable standards or regulations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: completed transportation projects, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Inspect completed transportation projects to ensure safety or compliance with applicable standards or regulations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 6 out of 100 (2–10 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Final inspection of a finished road or bridge means being there to look at it.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Inspecting completed transportation projects to ensure compliance with environmental regulations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: completed transportation projects, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Inspect completed transportation projects to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 6 out of 100 (2–10 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Checking a finished project against environmental rules means going and seeing the site.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Managing and directing the construction
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the construction, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Manage and direct the construction, operations, or maintenance activities at project site.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 4 out of 100 (0–8 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Running the work at a project site means being there and directing people day to day.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 1/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 1/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 1/4.
Supervising the maintenance or repair of transportation systems or system components
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the maintenance, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Supervise the maintenance or repair of transportation systems or system components.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 2 out of 100 (0–6 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it; the value is that a specific person does it.
The rating behind it: Supervising repair crews on transport infrastructure means being present and directing people.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 2/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Overseeing the construction of decentralized or on-site wastewater treatment systems
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the construction, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Oversee the construction of decentralized or on-site wastewater treatment systems, including reclaimed water facilities.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 2 out of 100 (0–6 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Overseeing construction of on-site treatment systems means being at the build.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 3/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Directing or participating in surveying to lay out installations or establish reference points
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: surveying, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Core
Source: “Direct or participate in surveying to lay out installations or establish reference points, grades, or elevations to guide construction.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Surveying and staking out a site means being on the ground with instruments.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 2/4.
Testing soils or materials to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: soils, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Test soils or materials to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations, concrete, asphalt, or steel.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Testing soil, concrete or steel means physically handling samples and equipment.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Investigating or testing specific construction project materials to determine compliance to specifications or standards
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: specific construction project materials, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 4 · Supplemental
Source: “Investigate or test specific construction project materials to determine compliance to specifications or standards.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: the same decision, made over and over; work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Testing actual construction materials means handling samples and running equipment.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 0/4 · how much data exists 3/4.
Directing the surveying, staking or laying-out of construction projects
staying human
This work happens in the physical world: the surveying, staking or laying-out of construction projects, in a real place. Software cannot follow it there.
importance 3 · Core
Source: “Direct the surveying, staking, or laying-out of construction projects.” (O*NET task statement)
How this row was scored
Exposure score: 0 out of 100 (0–4 allowing for uncertainty): minimal exposure, high confidence.
Why it sits in this group: work that happens in the physical world; someone qualified has to answer for it.
The rating behind it: Surveying, staking and laying out a site is physical work on the ground.
The five ratings: output a model can produce 0/4 · needs a body in a room 4/4 · needs an accountable person 2/4 · needs to be trusted in the moment 1/4 · how much data exists 2/4.

What this job pays, and how many people do it

Median pay: $100,840a year, the middle of the range, so half earn more and half earn less.bls-oews, 2025 · May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx)
How we know this
Source: bls-oews
Reference period: May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx)
Rounding: Shown as published.
People doing this job: 367,840in the US, 2025.bls-oews · May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx)

What is deliberately not here: a forecast of how many of these jobs exist in ten years. Where an official projection exists for a market we publish it with its vintage; where it does not, we leave the space empty rather than borrow the other country’s number.

Why this is shifting

The reason is boringly specific. Most of what is shifting here is reading one thing and writing another: administrative, technical or statistical reports in, a record out. The rows above are exactly that shape: preparing administrative, technical or statistical reports on traffic-operation matters and estimating transportation project costs. What it cannot do is be answerable: technical direction needs a named person the rules will accept, and software cannot be that person. Which is why this page talks about your tasks changing, not your job ending.

Your move

Over a pint: what I’d tell you if you were my friend

Start with what does not change: providing technical direction or supervision to junior engineers is the middle of this job, and the evidence on this page says it stays with a person.

So, given all that: 15% of this job's task weight sits in rows the software is already learning, 24% in rows that change shape rather than disappear, and 61% in rows it is nowhere near. That is the position, measured across 70 scored tasks. It is not a forecast about you.

So the thing worth your attention is not the job going away. It is the layer around it. Preparing administrative, technical or statistical reports on traffic-operation matters is the part turning into software, and being the person who understands that layer is worth money.

This week: one thing

Ask the one question. Find whoever is bringing new software into your workplace (the manager, the office, whoever runs the system) and ask them what it is meant to do to administrative, technical or statistical reports, and what it is not meant to touch. Ten minutes, this week, before anyone decides it for you.

What you end up holding: a straight answer about what is actually being rolled out, and when
How long it takes: ten minutes

If there’s nobody obvious to ask, or you’d rather not ask your manager: Put the same question to your union rep, your shift lead or the person who has been there longest, in person, over a break. Same ten minutes, same answer, and you will usually get a straighter one. Write down what they say. The note is the artifact, and it tells you whether technical direction is in scope or not. Nothing to log into, no license needed.

Over the next 90 days

Get inside the tool rollout rather than waiting for it. Over the next ninety days, ask to be in the group that tests, checks or signs off whatever new system arrives near checking construction plans, design calculations or cost estimations to ensure completeness, accuracy or conformity to engineering standards or practices. It is usually an unglamorous seat that nobody fights for, and it is the one that decides how the software is used on your job rather than to it.

Over the next 12 months

On this evidence I would not retrain out of this job, and I will say that plainly rather than hedge it. The task list here is dominated by work that stays with a person. What I would do with a year is get formally recognised for the layer around it (the systems, the compliance, the planning), so you are the one who understands the software instead of the one it is done to. Before you pay for anything, use CareerOneStop - Find local training. It is free, it is the Labor Department's own service, and it is listed below with the rest of the free routes.

The roads out of here, and why I am not sending you down them

I looked at the obvious moves out of this job, and here is what I found.

I checked the 12 nearest US occupations to civil engineers (nearest by the work that AI is not taking, not by job title), and none of them survived. The closest was natural sciences managers: only about 5% of its durable work is work you already do. And on the numbers you do not need one. This job scores 38/100 here, with only 15% of the task list in the top band, and “design or prepare plans for new transportation systems or parts of systems” is not work that hands over cleanly. None of them beats deepening what you already have.

How that was checked: this job was compared against all 830 US occupations in this release on their official task statements, and the 12 nearest were examined one by one. A move that turns on an industry, an employer or a qualification rather than on the work itself will not show up in a check like that. And this release carries no licence register, so anything you are weighing needs that looked up separately.

3 moves I checked and rejected

These are the obvious-looking jumps. They are here with their reasons rather than quietly dropped, because the ones that fail are worth knowing about. It is one less thing to turn over at night.

Natural Sciences Managers
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour on the work AI is not taking: you already conduct water quality studies to identify and characterize water pollutant sources, and their equivalent is to identify and characterize specific causes or sources of water pollution. Across both published task lists that is about 5% of the durable work in that job.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 5% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step.
Look at that job’s page anyway →
Construction Managers
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour on the work AI is not taking: you already inspect completed transportation projects to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, and their equivalent is to inspect or review projects to monitor compliance with environmental regulations. Across both published task lists that is about 4% of the durable work in that job.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 4% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step.
Look at that job’s page anyway →
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Why it looked obvious: It came up as a near neighbour on the work AI is not taking: you already inspect project sites to monitor progress and ensure conformance to design specifications and…, and their equivalent is to inspect project site and evaluate contractor work to detect design malfunctions and ensure…. Across both published task lists that is about 2% of the durable work in that job.
Why I am not recommending it: Almost none of it is work you already do: about 2% of the durable side of that job. That is a different job, not a next step. It is a pay cut, in those words: $64,950 against your $100,840, 35.6% less (OEWS May 2025 (both)). Retraining to earn less is a decision, not advice. And it is a narrow door: about 68,520 of those jobs against 367,840 of yours (OEWS May 2025), 19% as many seats.
Look at that job’s page anyway →

What I’d stop worrying about

A friend tells you what not to spend fear on. This is that list.

The headline number you read somewhere
The big “X% of jobs” figures are about the whole economy, not about you. The number that describes your job is on this page: 15% of its task weight, across 70 scored tasks. Every row behind it is printed above with the source. Check ours; ignore theirs.
The headlines about your trade disappearing
They are usually about the technology, not the timetable. Changes to work like providing technical direction or supervision to junior engineers arrive through rules, insurance and money, slowly and visibly. This page tracks the task evidence and will move when it moves.
Retraining out of a job that is holding up
On this evidence I would not spend money leaving. Spend it on the layer around the job instead: the tools, the paperwork, the planning. That is where the change actually is.
The “obvious” next job everyone suggests
I checked the obvious moves and most of them did not survive. The reasons are printed with the routes above, including the pay and the gate. A move that fails on the numbers is worth knowing about so you can stop turning it over at night.

You are reading the United States figures

The United Kingdom splits this work across more than one official group, of which Civil engineers is the closest. The pay and employment figures are not directly comparable, and we do not average them together.

Switch to the United Kingdom page →partial match

In UK official statistics this job is counted as Civil engineers. Pay and employment stay on this page’s own group; the task list and the scores do not cross over.

Your route through this

Where to go next, and what it costs

Free, and complete

The moves above cost nothing. These are the real services that go with them: public, government-funded, and free at the point of use. Nothing on this page is behind an email address or a payment.

Anywhere in the US:
CareerOneStop - Find local training
Search what's running near you, from the Labor Department's own database, before anyone sells you a course.
Free to search; individual programs vary, and some are funded
Anywhere in the US:
American Job Center locator
An American Job Center will sit down with you for free. Find yours by ZIP code.
Free
- CareerOneStop local help hub
Anywhere in the US:
CareerOneStop - Licensed occupations finder
Check what your state actually requires before you pay for anything.
Free
Anywhere in the US:
CareerOneStop
Free

No Space for this job, but one for what is happening to it

Nothing Collab365 runs is built for civil engineers, and we are not going to point you at the nearest one and call it a fit.

There is one that is not about a job title at all. The AI Authority is about being the person who directs these tools at work rather than the person they get compared to. That is worth saying here, because 15% of the work on this page is already inside what they can do.

Try The AI Authority free →

7 days free, no card needed. Explore up to 2 Spaces before you choose a plan: you pick a plan later, not now.

The AI Authority is a general community about working with AI, not a course for civil engineers. You do not need it to act on anything here: the moves above cost nothing and stand on their own. The data on this page is the same either way.

Noted, and thank you. We’ll email you if a Space for civil engineers launches. Nothing else.

That did not look like an email address, so nothing was saved. Have another go below.

We could not save that. The fault is ours, not yours, and your address was not stored. Please try again later.

No Space for civil engineers yet. Should there be one?

Collab365 Spaces is built by the same people as this site. We find the problems that AI and automation are creating inside one kind of work, then solve them as short courses, briefings and Blueprints. Each Space is the community too, so the research and the people doing your job are in the same place.

What a Space actually is, in full

Collab365 launches new communities where the need is real. If one for civil engineers existed, with researched problems, courses and people in the same boat, would you want in?

Your email

We use your email address for one thing: to tell you if a Space for civil engineers launches. We never sell it, never use it for unrelated marketing, and every email has a one-click unsubscribe. Our privacy policy has the full version.

This unlocks nothing. Every figure, every row and every step on this page is already yours, whether you fill this in or not.

No deadline on any of this. The page will still be here, and the data is refreshed on a published schedule rather than when someone wants a headline.

Questions people ask about this job

Will AI replace Civil Engineers?: Not as a job, but it is already doing parts of the work. Across the 70 official task statements scored for Civil Engineers (United States, SOC 17-2051), 15% of the importance-weighted core work is made of tasks today's AI could already do most of. The overall exposure score is 38 out of 100 (range 32–43, band: low). That is a statement about tasks, not about headcount: this measures what AI could do, not whether any employer adopts it, whether the law allows it, or whether doing the routine parts faster creates more demand for the human parts. Figures are from release 2026-q4.1.
Which tasks in “Civil Engineers” can AI already do?: The highest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Develop or assist in the development of transportation-related computer software or computer processes” (83/100, very high); “Estimate quantities and cost of materials, equipment, or labor to determine project feasibility” (66/100, high); “Prepare administrative, technical, or statistical reports on traffic-operation matters, such as accidents, safety measures, or pedestrian volume or practices” (66/100, high). Each score comes from five published 0–4 ratings turned into a number by a published formula, and each carries the model's one-sentence reason on the page.
Which tasks in “Civil Engineers” stay human?: About 61% of this job's task weight sits in work that scores low for AI exposure. The lowest-scoring tasks in release 2026-q4.1 are: “Direct the surveying, staking, or laying-out of construction projects” (0/100, minimal); “Investigate or test specific construction project materials to determine compliance to specifications or standards” (0/100, minimal); “Test soils or materials to determine the adequacy and strength of foundations, concrete, asphalt, or steel” (0/100, minimal). Low scores usually mean the task needs a body in a room, a legally accountable human, or trust built in real time. Those are the three things the scoring rubric treats as gates rather than obstacles.
What should someone working in “Civil Engineers” do about AI?: Start from the ledger rather than the headline: 15% of this job's weighted core work is exposed, and roughly 61% is not. The practical move is to spend more of your week on the tasks that score low, the ones above, and to get fluent at directing AI through the tasks that score high, because those are the parts that change whether or not you are ready for them. This page does not predict your job, and nothing here is career advice tailored to you: the score describes the occupation, not the person.
How is the AI exposure score for Civil Engineers calculated?: Each official task statement for the occupation is rated on five published 0–4 dimensions (output replicability, physical embodiment, licensed accountability, real-time human trust, and data availability) by claude-opus-5 using scoring prompt task_scoring_v1.0. The model never writes the score; a published formula turns the five ratings into a 0–100 number, so every score can be recomputed by hand. The occupation figure is the importance-weighted mean across 70 scored tasks. The prompt, the rubric, the formula and the full dataset are published at https://futureproof.collab365.com/method and https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1 under CC BY 4.0.

Where these numbers come from

Worth knowing about these figures

The match between this job and its counterpart in the other country is partial, so the two pages count slightly different groups of people.
6 of this occupation's scored task statements carry a score that was measured under a different occupation's context, because the statement is shared between jobs and has only been scored once so far. Each one names the occupation it was measured under in the free routes below; none is presented as a measurement for this job.
Task clusters are not derived in this release, so the task-cluster field is empty and no Collab365 Space routing is attached to this occupation yet.

Task statements: onet-dbProcessing: catalogue-bridge → onet-im-rt-weighting → task-scoring → score-aggregation
Task weights: onet-db (im-rt)
Scores: Rubric task_scoring_v1.0, model claude-opus-5, computed 2026-08-04.
Pay and employment: bls-oews (May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx))bls-oews (May 2025 estimates (national_M2025_dl.xlsx))

Figures on this page come from release 2026-q4.1, published 2026-08-05. Every release keeps its own permanent address, so a figure you cite in March is still there, unchanged, in November.

The plain-English wording on this page is assembled directly from the task statements and the published ratings, not written by hand for this occupation. That is why it is specific, and it is also why we say so.

The routes and free resources further up are today’s, not the release’s (last reviewed 2026-08-05). A route is an offer, not a historical fact, so it moves on its own clock.

How we score a job Download this release Look up another job

Using these figures?

Cite this

Everything on this site is published under CC BY 4.0. Quote it, chart it, sell something built on it. Just say where it came from, and cite the dated release rather than the site, so the figure you quote stays checkable.

Plain text

Collab365 (2026). Collab365 Futureproof: task-level AI exposure for US and UK occupations, release 2026-q4.1 (methodVersion 2.0.0, promptVersion task_scoring_v1.0). https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1. Licensed CC BY 4.0. Built with O*NET data (USDOL/ETA, CC BY 4.0); ONS data (Open Government Licence v3.0); GAISI task framework (arXiv:2507.22748, MIT); BLS data (public domain).

BibTeX

@misc{collab365futureproof2026q41,
  title        = {Collab365 Futureproof: task-level AI exposure for US and UK occupations, release 2026-q4.1},
  author       = {{Collab365}},
  year         = {2026},
  url          = {https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1},
  note         = {Release 2026-q4.1, methodVersion 2.0.0, promptVersion task_scoring_v1.0, CC BY 4.0}
}

Permalink

https://futureproof.collab365.com/data/2026-q4.1

Data as of release 2026-q4.1, published 2026-08-05. Releases never change after publication; when the figures move, a new dated release is published beside this one and this one stays exactly where it is.