Stefanie, Field Engineer

With a lifelong interest and aptitude in math and science, engineering was a natural choice for Stefanie. While earning her Mechanical Engineering degree, she discovered a new passion. "While I was searching for design-related jobs I had an internship opportunity to work on a power plant construction project. I soon realized the importance of constructability when it comes to design. I made the decision that I wanted to work in the construction industry. Since I've been with Cherne, I've realized that the field is where it's at. There's lots of excitement, and I've been challenged in troubleshooting engineering, construction and fabrication problems. I live for the challenges that I face in the field every day. After working as a field engineer, I feel that there's nothing I can't do."

Field engineers could also be described as "Area Project Managers" due to the responsibilities they hold. During each project they manage construction activities in designated areas and act as consultants to craft labor. They are employed at sites nationwide, and must be willing and able to relocate as needed. Over half of their time is spent outdoors on the construction site, with the remainder spent in the project field office. Weekly work schedules of 50+ hours are common.

Depending on project size, field engineers report to lead engineers or project managers. Experienced field engineers provide valuable mentoring to new arrivals, and other members of Cherne's field and corporate staff provide the resources and information needed to realize professional growth.

A typical day for a field engineer includes reviews of daily goals and craft work packages. They meet with project management and other members of the project staff to determine work priorities. Field engineers also consult with members of the safety staff to identify any potential work hazards and to plan safety into all work activities. They spend most of the day working cooperatively with craft labor to help remove roadblocks to efficiency. Field engineers also create craft work packages, enter project tracking data and prepare documents and reports with the use of Cherne software programs.