More Field Engineering Steps – Field Engineering Series

The work of a builder or field engineer becomes clearer as the steps progress. Once the basics are in place, the focus shifts to maintaining tools, mastering software, and building the control systems that will guide construction.

Step 17 is all about creating and following a testing and calibration schedule. Just as projects need permitting and schedules to stay on track, equipment needs regular calibration. Field engineers should schedule testing and servicing for tribrachs, automatic levels, and total stations. Keeping equipment accurate prevents costly mistakes and builds habits that shape a career.

Step 18 focuses on getting the computer and applications ready. Too many companies make the mistake of giving new builders only an iPad. A computer is non-negotiable for real construction work. Builders need AutoCAD, Revit, Google SketchUp, Excel, and the rest of the office suite. They also need tools like WhatsApp for communication, Canva for visuals, and project management platforms. Miro can be added later for collaboration. The key is having a reliable computer set up with the right programs from day one.

Step 19 is learning AutoCAD. This can be done through professional training, LinkedIn Learning, or YouTube channels such as Lean Survey with Brandon Montero. Field engineers use AutoCAD to finalize primary and secondary control plans, overlay traverses, and input survey data. Teams that master AutoCAD early gain an edge in precision and confidence.

Step 20 is reading the rest of the field engineering methods manual. Earlier steps introduced the first eight chapters, but full competence requires reading the entire book. Understanding survey and control techniques in detail prepares engineers to handle real-world challenges in the field.

Step 21 shifts into reconciling the basis of bearings, the design benchmark, and the building coordinates. These elements explain how the site was surveyed and how the project was designed. Engineers should pull civil drawings, trace information, and understand how everything ties together. Step 22 then takes this into the field, where engineers survey the basis of bearings and design benchmarks, either by checking distances, tying into property lines, or creating a traverse.

Step 23 is designing primary control points. These are permanent points that surround the site and guide the entire project. Once installed, step 24 requires traversing the primary control to measure distances and angles with precision. This step produces a closure and assigns accurate coordinates to every primary control point. Step 25 adds level looping from the design benchmark to establish elevations for each point. With traversing and leveling complete, the engineer now has a reliable X, Y, and Z for the project.

Step 26 is creating a formal primary control plan. By overlaying traverses in AutoCAD, labeling the new coordinates, and printing a polished drawing, the engineer creates a reference that the entire team can trust.

Step 27 moves to secondary control, which is semi-permanent and tied to the building itself. These points align with grid lines and are offset to avoid disruption. Secondary control connects directly to the primary network and prepares the project for detailed layout.

Step 28 introduces working control. Unlike primary and secondary, working control is temporary and specific to building components such as walls, columns, or elevator pits. It is laid out, used during construction, and then discarded. This flexibility makes it possible to keep pace with the project’s progress.

Step 29 is the introduction of the chain. Builders at this stage move beyond flimsy tapes to certified steel calibrated chains with tensioners. These ensure precise parallel distance measurements on slabs and grids. Using the chain consistently raises accuracy, reduces rework, and reinforces the professional standard of field engineering.

By completing steps 17 through 29, field engineers position themselves to support projects with accuracy, discipline, and technical competence. The habits built here carry through every stage of a construction career.

Key Takeaway

Field engineers build consistency by mastering habits, tools, and controls. From calibration schedules to control networks, every step lays the foundation for accuracy and clarity in construction.