Attributes for professionally qualified membership
The standards of professional civil engineering competence and commitment presented here – the ICE Attributes - ensure our professionally qualified members are equipped to address the needs of society and business, deploying the most appropriate engineering methods and technologies, solving complex challenges, enhancing welfare, health and safety, and working with the environment.
Membership Streamlining
ICE is launching its Membership Streamlining, a clearer and smoother pathway to achieving professional qualification. Find out about the specific changes to the attributes and how they impact you.
Within this framework, ICE recognises the extraordinary challenge of the Climate Emergency as a very necessary central cultural feature in the development and work of civil engineers and technicians, and the Attributes should be read with this strongest intent in mind.
The tabs below list the attributes required to become an ICE member at Chartered Engineer (CEng) level, Incorporated Engineer (IEng) level and Engineering Technician (EngTech) level.
Attributes of Member and Incorporated Engineer (MICE, IEng MICE)
As a prospective professional civil engineer, you must have a sound knowledge and understanding of the construction process and the activities connected to it. You must also be able to identify and manage risks to everyone engaged in the process. If your experience includes the construction process, site experience will ordinarily be required.
Attribute group
Attributes of MICE/IEng MICE
Video examples
1. Knowledge and Understanding of Engineering
2. Technical and Practical Application of Engineering
3. Management and Leadership
4. Independent Judgement and Responsibility
5. Commercial Ability
6. Health, Safety and Welfare
7. Sustainable Development
8. Interpersonal Skills and Communication
*All assessments and reviews for Engineering Council registration will be conducted in English, subject to the provisions of the Welsh Language Act 1993 and any Regulations which may be made in implementation of European Union directives on free movement of labour
9. Professional Commitment
Attributes of Member and Chartered Civil Engineer (CEng MICE)
As a prospective professional civil engineer, you must have a sound knowledge and understanding of the construction process and the activities connected to it. You must also be able to identify and manage risks to everyone engaged in the process. If your experience includes the construction process, site experience will ordinarily be required.
Attribute group
Attributes of CEng MICE
Video examples
1. Knowledge and Understanding of Engineering
2. Technical and Practical Application of Engineering
3. Management and Leadership
4. Independent Judgement and Responsibility
5. Commercial Ability
6. Health, Safety and Welfare
7. Sustainable Development
8. Interpersonal Skills and Communication
*All assessments and reviews for Engineering Council registration will be conducted in English, subject to the provisions of the Welsh Language Act 1993 and any Regulations which may be made in implementation of European Union directives on free movement of labour
9. Professional Commitment
Standards required of a civil engineering technician
Standards group
Description
Video examples
A. Use engineering knowledge and understanding to apply technical and practical skills. This includes the ability to
The reviewers will be looking for evidence that you have the know-how to do the job, and were able to go beyond the immediate requirements and use your initiative and experience to solve a problem or improve a process.
A1. Review and select appropriate techniques, procedures and methods to undertake tasks.
Describe:
- An example of work you did that went well, the choices you made and the outcome; or
- Something in your work that you were involved in which didn't quite work and explain why; or
- A technique, procedure or method you improved upon and explain why
A2. Use appropriate scientific, technical or engineering principles
Drawing from your direct experience, this might be an explanation of how a piece of equipment, system or mechanism works.
B. Contribute to the design, development, manufacture, construction, commissioning, operation or maintenance of products, equipment, processes, systems or services. In this context, this includes the ability to:
Explain how you contribute to one or more of these activities.
B1. Identify problems and apply appropriate methods to identify causes and achieve satisfactory solutions
Show an example of how you have used measurement, monitoring and assessment to:
- Identify the source of a problem; or
- Identify an opportunity; or
- Propose a solution
B2. Identify, organise and use resources effectively to complete tasks, with consideration for cost, quality, safety, security and environmental impact
Illustrate how you make decisions about:
- What information, material, component, people or plant to use; or
- How to introduce a new method of working; or
- What precautions you took
Describe how you have contributed to best practice methods of continuous improvement, e.g. ISO 9000 or similar outside the UK
C. Accept and exercise personal responsibility. This includes the ability to:
Describe an experience or instance where you have had to accept personal responsibility for seeing a process through to completion within agreed targets.
C1. Work reliably and effectively without close supervision, to the appropriate codes of practice
Your evidence should show how you identified and agreed what had to be done and to what standards on a typical project.
C2. Accept responsibility for work of self or others
Your evidence could include: minutes of meetings; site notes and instructions; Variation Orders; programmes of work; specifications, drawing and reports; or appraisals. Activity not associated with your job can contribute evidence.
C3. Accept, allocate and supervise technical and other tasks
D. Use effective communication and interpersonal skills. This includes the ability to:
You will need to show you can contribute to discussions; make a presentation; read and synthesise information; or write different types of documents.
D1. Use oral, written and electronic methods for the communication in English* of technical and other information
Your evidence could include: letters; reports; drawings; emails; minutes, including of progress meetings; appraisals; work instructions; and other task planning and organising documents. Your application itself will be relevant.
D2. Work effectively with colleagues, clients, suppliers or the public, and be aware of the needs and concerns of others, especially where related to diversity and equality.
- Show examples of how this has occurred, and your role at the time.
- Describe your role as part of a team.
- Describe a situation where you put your awareness into practice.
* Any interviews will be conducted in English, subject only to the provisions of the Welsh Language Act 1993 and any Regulations which may be made in implementation of European Union directives on free movement of labour.
E: Make a personal commitment to an appropriate code of professional conduct, recognising obligations to society, the profession and the environment.
Your commitment will be to become part of the profession and uphold the standards to which all members subscribe. You need to show that you have read and understood your institution's Code of Conduct.
E1. Comply with the Code of Conduct of your institution.
The Professional Review involves demonstration of, or discussion of, your position on typical ethical challenges. Demonstrate your underpinning knowledge of the ICE Code of Conduct.
E2. Manage and apply safe systems of work.
Provide evidence of applying current safety requirements, such as risk assessment and other examples of good practice you adopt in your work. You will need to show that you have received a formal safety instruction relating to your workplace (such as a CSCS safety test in the UK), or an update on statutory regulations. In the UK an example would be COSHH requirements. Demonstrate how you manage your own health and safety and that of others around you.
A failure at health, safety and welfare will result in a fail at the review.
E3. Undertake engineering work in a way that contributes to sustainable development. This could include an ability to:
- Operate and act responsibly, taking account of the need to progress environmental, social and economic outcomes simultaneously
Show examples of methodical assessment of risk in specific projects; actions taken to minimise risk to society or the environment. Demonstrate your awareness of the considerations taken in your project/s in respect to sustainable development.
E4. Carry out and record CPD necessary to maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice including:
- Undertake reviews of own development needs
- Plan how to meet personal and organisational objectives
- Carry out planned (and unplanned) CPD activities
- Record and maintain evidence of competence development
- Evaluate CPD outcomes against any plans made
- Assist others with their CPD
This means demonstrating that you have actively sought to keep yourself up to date, perhaps by studying new standards or techniques, or made use of magazines, lectures organised by professional engineering institutions, and other opportunities to network in order to keep abreast of change. This is an opportunity to demonstrate your involvement/support of ICE activities.
E5. Exercise responsibilities in an ethical manner
Give an example of where you have applied ethical principles. There are four fundamental principles to guide engineering technicians in achieving the high ideals of professional life:
- Accuracy and rigour
- Honesty and integrity
- Respect for life, law and the public good
- Responsible leadership – listening and informing
Give an example of where you have applied/upheld ethical principles as defined by your organisation or company, which may be in its company or brand values.
Attributes of an Incorporated Engineer (IEng MICE)
Incorporated Engineers maintain and manage applications of current and developing technology, and may undertake engineering design, development, manufacture, construction and operation.
As a prospective professional civil engineer, you must have a sound knowledge and understanding of the construction process together with the activities connected to it. You must have an appreciation of, and be able to identify and manage, risks to all those engaged and affected by the design, construction, operation, use, maintenance and demolition of any works. For those whose experience includes the construction process, site experience will ordinarily be required.
A successful candidate will be able to demonstrate their competence in all of the areas listed, but the depth and extent of their experience and competence will vary with the nature and requirements of their role.
Attribute information for trainees using IPD Online
To help you understand what will change within IPD Online, we have produced a document showing the current attributes and how IPD Online will look with the revised wording for the new Attributes, alongside each other. This is supported with commentary on the differences for each qualified grade. IPD Online will be updated accordingly in October 2021.
Please note that Trainees who complete their Training Agreement or Mentor Supported Training before the changes in IPD Online are updated will need to make sure that they meet the requirements for Professional Review when they apply.
Attribute information for Professional Review candidates
This document provides an overview of the changes to Attributes for Incorporated and Chartered Professional Reviews taking place from January 2022.
Attribute group
Attributes of MICE/IEng MICE
- Understanding and Practical Application of Engineering
- Maintain and extend knowledge of engineering theory and practice, and how technology assists its application
- Solve engineering problems using a sound theoretical approach, based on evidence, and contribute to continuous improvement
- Identify, review and select techniques, procedures and methods to undertake engineering tasks
- Contribute to the design and development of engineering solutions, implement those solutions, and evaluate their effectiveness in the context of the whole project life cycle
- Exercise sound independent engineering judgement
2. Management and Leadership
- Plan the work and resources needed to enable effective implementation of engineering tasks and projects
- Manage the planning and organisation of tasks and resources
- Manage teams or technical specialisms
- Assist others to meet changing technical and managerial needs
- Manage quality processes and contribute to quality improvements
3. Commercial Ability
- Manage, prepare and control costs/budgets of engineering tasks or projects
- Use sound knowledge of statutory and commercial frameworks within their own area of responsibility and have an appreciation of other commercial arrangements
4. Health, Safety and Welfare
- Demonstrate a sound knowledge of legislation, hazards and safe systems of work
- Manage risks
- Manage health, safety and welfare within their own area of responsibility
- Contribute to improvements in health, safety and welfare
5. Sustainable Development
- Understand the principles of sustainable development and apply them in work
- Manage engineering activities that contribute to sustainable development and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs)
6. Interpersonal Skills and Communication
- Communicate well with others at all levels including effective use of English*, orally and in writing
- Discuss ideas and plans competently and with confidence
- Demonstrate effective personal and social skills
- Demonstrate awareness of diversity and inclusion
*Please note: All assessments and reviews for Engineering Council registration will be conducted in English, subject to the provisions of the Welsh Language Act 1993
7. Professional Commitment
- Understand and comply with the ICE Code of Conduct
- Understand the ethical issues that may arise in their role and carry out their responsibilities in an ethical manner
- Plan, carry out and record Continuing Professional Development (CPD) necessary to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice
- Identify the limits of their personal knowledge and skills
- Engage with ICE activities
Attributes of a Chartered Engineer (CEng MICE)
Chartered Engineers develop solutions to complex engineering problems using new or existing technologies, and through innovation, creativity and technical analysis.
As a prospective professional civil engineer, you must have a sound knowledge and understanding of the construction process together with the activities connected to it. You must have an appreciation of, and be able to identify and manage, risks to all those engaged and affected by the design, construction, operation, use, maintenance and demolition of any works. For those whose experience includes the construction process, site experience will ordinarily be required.
A successful candidate will be able to demonstrate their competence in all of the areas listed, but the depth and extent of their experience and competence will vary with the nature and requirements of their role.
Attribute information for trainees using IPD Online
To help you understand what will change within IPD Online, we have produced a document showing the current attributes and how IPD Online will look with the revised wording for the new Attributes, alongside each other. This is supported with commentary on the differences for each qualified grade. IPD Online will be updated accordingly in October 2021.
Please note that Trainees who complete their Training Agreement or Mentor Supported Training before the changes in IPD Online are updated will need to make sure that they meet the requirements for Professional Review when they apply.
Attribute information for Professional Review candidates
This document provides an overview of the changes to Attributes for Incorporated and Chartered Professional Reviews taking place from January 2022.
Attribute group
Attributes of CEng MICE
1. Understanding and Practical Application of Engineering
- Maintain and extend knowledge of engineering theory and practice, and how technology assists its application
- Solve engineering problems using a sound theoretical approach, based on evidence, and contribute to continuous improvement
- Engage in the creation and/or introduction of new, advancing or improved techniques and technology
- Identify, review and select techniques, procedures and methods to undertake engineering tasks
- Take an active role in the identification and definition of requirements, challenges, risks, and opportunities and undertake appropriate investigation and action
- Contribute to the design and development of engineering solutions, implement those solutions, and evaluate their effectiveness in the context of the whole project life cycle
- Undertake the design, development and implementation of engineering solutions and evaluate their effectiveness in the context of the whole project life cycle
- Exercise sound independent engineering judgement
2. Management and Leadership
- Plan the work and resources needed to enable effective implementation of engineering tasks and projects
- Manage the planning and organisation of tasks and resources.
- Manage (organise, direct and control), programme or schedule, tasks and resources
- Manage teams or technical specialisms
- Lead or influence teams / technical specialisms, understanding the limits of their skills and knowledge
- Assist others to meet changing technical and managerial needs
- Develop others to meet changing technical and managerial needs
- Manage quality processes and contribute to quality improvements
- Demonstrate continuous quality improvement and promote best practice
3. Commercial Ability
- Manage, prepare and control costs/budgets of engineering tasks or projects
- Manage, prepare and control costs/budgets of a significant engineering task or project
- Use sound knowledge of statutory and commercial frameworks within their own area of responsibility and have an appreciation of other commercial arrangements
- Demonstrate sound judgement on statutory, contractual and commercial issues in relation to own area of responsibility
4. Health, Safety and Welfare
- Demonstrate a sound knowledge of legislation, hazards and safe systems of work
- Manage risks
- Manage health, safety and welfare within their own area of responsibility
- Contribute to improvements in health, safety and welfare
- Demonstrate leadership by promoting good practice and improvements in health, safety and welfare
5. Sustainable Development
- Understand the principles of sustainable development and apply them in work
- Manage engineering activities that contribute to sustainable development and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs)
- Take a professional and responsible role in improvements that support sustainable development and reduce resource demand, set in the context of a whole project life cycle
6. Interpersonal Skills and Communication
- Communicate well with others at all levels including effective use of English*, orally and in writing
- Discuss ideas and plans competently and with confidence
- Communicate new concepts and ideas to technical and non-technical stakeholders
- Demonstrate effective personal and social skills
- Demonstrate awareness of diversity and inclusion
- Proactively manage diversity and inclusion
*Please note: All assessments and reviews for Engineering Council registration will be conducted in English, subject to the provisions of the Welsh Language Act 1993.
7. Professional Commitment
- Understand and comply with the ICE Code of Conduct
- Understand the ethical issues that may arise in their role and carry out their responsibilities in an ethical manner
- Plan, carry out and record Continuing Professional Development (CPD) necessary to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice
- Identify the limits of their personal knowledge and skills
- Exercise sound holistic independent judgement and accept responsibility
- Engage with ICE activities
Attributes of an Engineering Technician (EngTech MICE)
Attributes group
Attributes of EngTech MICE
1. Understanding and Practical Application of Engineering
- Use appropriate scientific, technical or engineering principles
- Review and select appropriate techniques, procedures and methods to undertake tasks
- Identify problems and apply appropriate methods to identify causes and achieve satisfactory solutions
2. Management and Leadership
- Identify tasks and organise resources to complete them effectively
- Work reliably and accept responsibility for their work or the work of others
- Complete tasks with due consideration for quality
3. Commercial Ability
- Identify, organise and use resources with consideration of cost
4. Health, Safety and Welfare
- Understand the safety implications of the role
- Complete tasks with due consideration for safety
- Comply with safe systems of work
5. Sustainable Development
- Understand the principles of sustainable development and apply them in work
- Complete tasks with consideration for their environmental impact
6. Interpersonal Skills and Communication
- Communicate effectively with others, at all levels, in English
- Work effectively with colleagues, clients, suppliers or the public
- Demonstrate personal and social skills
- Demonstrate awareness of diversity and inclusion
7. Professional Commitment
- Understand and comply with the ICE Code of Conduct
- Understand the ethical issues that may arise in their role and carry out their responsibilities in an ethical manner
- Carry out and record the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) necessary to maintain and enhance competence in their own area of practice
eLearning for you
ICE Training provides an increasing number of online training courses. Available to take whenever suits you, our online modules are a great way to help you achieve your professional qualification and development goals.
Get help from our membership professionals
We're here to help you achieve your membership goals. See the latest professional qualification training opportunities, ranging from local membership surgeries to dedicated courses.