Civil Definition and 237 Threads

The civil service is a collective term for a sector of government composed mainly of career civil servants hired on professional merit rather than appointed or elected, whose institutional tenure typically survives transitions of political leadership. A civil servant is a person employed in the public sector by a government department or agency or public sector undertakings. Civil servants work for central government and state governments, and answer to the government, not a political party. The extent of civil servants of a state as part of the "civil service" varies from country to country. In the United Kingdom, for instance, only Crown (national government) employees are referred to as civil servants whereas employees of Local Authorities (counties, cities and similar administrations) are generally referred to as "local government civil service officers" who are public servants but not civil servants. A civil servant is a public servant but a public servant is not necessarily a civil servant.
The study of the civil service is a part of the field of public service. Staff members in "non-departmental public bodies" (sometimes called "QUANGOs") may also be classed as civil servants for the purpose of statistics and possibly for their terms and conditions. Collectively a state's civil servants form its civil service or public service. The concept arose in China and modern civil service developed in Britain in the 18th century.
An international civil servant or international staff member is a civilian employee who is employed by an intergovernmental organization. These international civil servants do not resort under any national legislation (from which they have immunity of jurisdiction) but are governed by internal staff regulations. All disputes related to international civil service are brought before special tribunals created by these international organizations such as, for instance, the Administrative Tribunal of the ILO. Specific referral can be made to the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) of the United Nations, an independent expert body established by the United Nations General Assembly. Its mandate is to regulate and coordinate the conditions of service of staff in the United Nations common system, while promoting and maintaining high standards in the international civil service.

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  1. L

    Engineering Need to interview a Civil Engineer

    1. What made you choose this type of engineering? 2. What type of equipment do you work with on a day to day basis? 3. What is your educational back ground? 4. What is your favorite part of the job? 5. What is you least favorite part of the job? 6. Do you need a...
  2. K

    Help Needed Solving Physics Problem for Civil Engineering Student

    hi I am a student of civil engineering and have never done physics,this question was on my exam paper and am wondering if anyone can help me solve it. A 0.5 kg ball is tied to a string 2 m long and the other end of the string is tied to a rigid support. The ball is held at an angle of 300 to...
  3. O

    Engineering Civil Engineering is hazardous to your job prospects

    This has already been posted in another thread (https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=375948), but I thought it would be more appropriate if it were here. Anyway, here's the article I got from my friend's school newspaper. Is there any truth in it? I'm a civil engineering major and am...
  4. O

    Civil Engineering is hazardous to your career prospects

    I've just read an article that my friend forwarded to me. It has me worried since I'm a civil engineering major, and I want to know whether things are really that bad. To be honest, I knew that CE wasn't the best engineering major to take because of the real-estate fueled recession, but this...
  5. A

    Is civil engineering the right career choice for me?

    I'm presently doing my second year in B.Eng civil, and I'm just curious what a day to day work is like in this field. Repetitive lecturing from teachers on how various lives are at stake in civil engineering field has me a little freaked out (case studies of past civil mistakes didn't help)...
  6. R

    Engineering Diploma to Degree in Civil Engineering?

    Hi, I'll be graduating this year obtaining my Civil engineering Technology Diploma, but i wasn't sure if i should go back to university to get a degree in civil engineering. Is an extra 4 years worth all the trouble? Would the pay be that much of a difference? Couldn't a Civil Tech make as much...
  7. S

    Engineering Is a Masters in Civil Engineering Necessary for a Career in California?

    Hello, I'm a 3rd year civil engineering major/computer sciences and communication minor. With the economy at the state it is now, is it worth pursuing a masters or should I try to look for a job after college?
  8. A

    Civil Engineering with Concentration in Management?

    I'm currently finishing up my third semester in Civil Engineering. Recently a couple of my friends switched from standard "Civil Engineering" to "Civil Engineering with Concentration in Management" So this got me thinking if I should switch.. If i switch, I would not be taking...
  9. T

    Engineering Civil engineering or mechanical engineering

    Hi, Right now I am studying forest engineering at University of British Columbia but I am starting to regret choosing forestry since the industry is doing so bad. So I've decided to go into engineering since I am interested in it and it has good pay and good job outlook. But it is hard to...
  10. S

    Finished 2nd yr civil Swap to mech?

    So I've just finished 2nd yr of civil eng...and am considering swapping to mechanical :/ Since i started engineering I've been kinda unsure of which branch i want to get into. Studying engineering and the principles involved i know engineering is for me, just need to decide which ;). Its just...
  11. O

    Engineering Switching or not switching from Civil Engineering to Physics

    Hello, dear forum I am a Norwegian Civil and Environmental Engineering student, soon to finish my very first semester. I have a tough decision to make regarding my choice of studies, and I would greatly appreciate some input from you. Here's some information: My preferred future profession...
  12. N

    Engineering Mechanical vs. Civil engineering

    Hi everyone. I am a sophmore studying to get a bs in mechanical engineering. I am thinking about switching to civil engineering, and I need some suggestions about what degree to pursue. First off, I do not care much about salaries because I know either way I will be making more than enough...
  13. W

    Optimizing Support Geometry for Tall Structures: A Civil Engineering Problem

    Homework Statement When building a tall support, often the self weight of the support must be considered. For an optimal support, the volume of material, and hence the cost, will be a minimum. If the maximum allowable stress in concrete is 12 MPa, determine the optimal geometry of the column...
  14. P

    Engineering Civil Engineering: Wages, Best Career Option & More

    Well, I really enjoy physics and I am interested by pretty much all of it. However, I really like the idea of civil engineering, you know, building bridges, tunnels, roads etc. But that's about it in terms of how much I know about the job. What is it really like? What are the wages like, and...
  15. T

    Civil Engineering/Power Engineering combination question

    I've decided that I am going to change my major from EE to Civil Engineering and will continue to take my EE classes that only and i repeat only lead up to Power Engineering classes. In addition to the Civil Eng. degree i will have coursework in Electrical System Design, both commercial...
  16. A

    Deciding Between Civil or Electrical Engineering Degree

    Hello all! Here is my first post. Anyway, I'm thinking of going back to school to finish my engineering degree. The program I'm looking at offers both electrical and civil. My studies were mostly in mechanical. Not sure which to choose if I decide to go back. Any thoughts or advise...
  17. T

    Engineering Is Civil Engineering a Good Career Choice in the U.S. Today?

    I have mixed thoughts about this. Some people say this is the engineering that has the most job opportunities and others say it's the worst because the field is overpopulated. At least in the United States, how do you see this field? Good, bad, average and will it stay that way?
  18. E

    Civil Engineering or Astrophysics it's decision time.

    edit: I've decided to stick with CE. Though I do love the study of the universe, I don't think I would be able to hand graduate school and all the research that is packed along with it. The books I've read are enough to satisfy my interest in space and time. During this economy, I think I'm...
  19. W

    Engineering Electrical Engineering vs Civil Engineering

    Hi! As you can see from the title, I'm interested in both Electrical and Civil Engineering. I have very little time to make a decision. Saying go with what you like more wouldn't help me at all because I'm interested in both of them! Which one provides better job security and higher pay? What...
  20. C

    Engineering Civil Engineering and Green Energy?

    Does anyone know what sorts of opportunities are out there for CE's in Green Energy (such as solar and wind)?
  21. L

    Schools Civil Engineering - University of Waterloo Vs. University of British Columbia

    Civil Engineering -- University of Waterloo Vs. University of British Columbia Im currently a high school senior in Panama. I will graduate in one month with an IB Diploma. I am considering two universities right now, Waterloo and UBC both for civil engineering. In Waterloo I got into the...
  22. O

    Difference between Civil Engineering Physics and non C.E. Physics?

    Whats the difference? i know that after 3 years you become a c.e. but what about the other one? Dont know which one to apply for.
  23. M

    Civil Engr: Airplane tie-down hardpoint

    First off, I'm an aerospace engineer so please excuse the general incompetence in all civil and concrete matters I would like to make a steel reinforced concrete anchor point to tie down an airplane. The force applied to the eye bolt tie down is 10,000 lbs at approximately a 30 degree angle...
  24. J

    Civil Engineering: Ask Your Questions Here!

    Civil engineering ! Hello,I'm a student that is studying civil engineering and i can't see any subforum concerning civil engineering ! why is that ?:) Thanks ...and sorry if i posted this in the wrong section
  25. S

    Who was the best cavalry leader of the American Civil War?

    Before anyone answers this, I think it is necessary to define the role of the cavalry of the time. It was a body whose job was screen their army's movement, gather information on enemy movements, raid the enemy's lines of communication and supply depots, protect their army's lines of...
  26. R

    Which Engineering Discipline Should I Choose: Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil?

    Would anyone be able to give me a quick run down on what to expect from each of those disciplines and your opinion about them ? I am applying for a course and have almost decided to apply for Mechanical but would like to hear your opinions. Thanks.
  27. N

    Civil Salad with EE on the side.

    Okay, I've decided to pursue Civil Engineering (Just finished my first year and part of my sophomore year) and focus in Environmental Engineering (for water/wastewater treatment). I've been operating a plant for about 8 years now, so this degree will give me a real boost in this field with more...
  28. A

    One for all you Civil engineers

    ok, I am doing a project called EWB (Engineers without Borders) and our group of 5 consists of the following: 2 Mech Eng students 1 Flexi first year engg student 1 biomed engineering student and 1 aeronautical engineering student (if u want to see the EWB website its here...
  29. C

    Civil vs. Mechanical Engineering (for 2nd semester 2008)

    I'm near the end of my 1st semester of 1st year engineering and I need to decide which electives to study for next semester relevant to either major but definitely for 2nd year (provided I don't fail my current subjects and also my current subjects are common to all Engineering students). I'll...
  30. C

    Civil vs. Mechanical Engineering (for 2nd semester 2008)

    I'm near the end of my 1st semester of 1st year engineering and I need to decide which electives to study for next semester relevant to either major but definitely for 2nd year (provided I don't fail my current subjects and also my current subjects are common to all Engineering students)...
  31. P

    Civil Engineering Vs Architecture?

    I have read quite a few sources about the differences between them but i'm, still in a dilema. Which subject is more related to house building and structure, i know civil engineer goes way beyond houses, to huge structures etc. But can one still do a degree in architecture and be licensed to...
  32. R

    Schools UBC, University of Toronto, Queen's or Waterloo for civil engineering?

    Hi, I am a Canadian high school student who has been admitted to the following universities: University of British Columbia (UBC), Queen's U, University of Waterloo, and University of Toronto, into the Faculty of Applied Science. I plan on being a civil engineering in the future, so...
  33. M

    Who are Some Renowned Civil Engineers Behind Iconic Structures?

    Homework Statement We are required to write an essay about a well-recognized engineer, who has designed numorous well-known structures(bridges, monuments etc.) internationally (preferably). Homework Equations I just need a couple of NAMES of those engineers and they have to have...
  34. K

    Civil Engineering with specialization in aviation or Aerospace Engineering

    I'm currently in 2nd bachelor in engineering (major mechanics and minor electrical engineering). My university offers a master in engineering with the option Aviation and Space Travel, but I can also switch to another university (in a different country) and do a master in Aerospace Engineering...
  35. EnumaElish

    News Do U.S. Pandemic Plans Threaten Civil Rights?

    http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080114/hl_nm/birdflu_rights_dc_3
  36. R

    Engineering Is Civil engineering a stable career path ?

    I have read it is highly cyclical I have also heard that it is very stable. Is Civil Engineering a stable career ?
  37. S

    Studying Scope of studying in astrophysics after completing b.tech in civil engineering

    hi! i'm a 2nd yr civil engineering student. after completing my b.tech in this field is there any scope for me to make my career in space_technology or to study in astrophysics? is there any entrance exam? please... inform me.
  38. T

    Civil Engineering - Do All Engineers Study the Same?

    Hi, I was wondering something, since my uncle is a civil engineer. Well last week I was talking to him about his job, and he told me he's a civil engineer, and he mentioned water something, and told me he works with the drainage systems in cities and such, and helps increase the effect of...
  39. R

    EE or Civil Eng: Which is Better for Job Prospects?

    Hey there's no civil forum so I just wanted to ask. Whats better EE or civil eng. I'm interested in both pretty much. Only exposure I've really had has been with electrical glossing over a couple of friend notes (not understanding them at all but parts of it look interesting), and civil I get...
  40. R

    Why isn't there a civil engineering forum?

    Just curious, why is there no civil engineering forum ?
  41. M

    I'm about to apply to U of Illinois in civil engineering.

    I'm a senior in high school and I live near the University of Illinois so I'm going to go there next year assuming I get accepted and everything. I'm not too passionate for anything but I like math and science so I figured engineering might be good. If I find out engineering isn't for me but I...
  42. Gokul43201

    News Civil rights lose big fight to vacation time

    Why exactly was it so necessary to decide the future of executive power and civil rights legislation over a hasty friday evening? http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/08/03/AR2007080302296.html?hpid=topnews Is it just that we're approaching election season, and the Dems...
  43. A

    At a crossroad; Civil or Mechanical Engineering

    Well, I'm going to a big University this upcoming fall. I'm at a crossroads on what and where I want to go in terms of Engineering. I'm planning to shoot for my masters. Civil vs Mechanical. I'm a bit sad that Civil Engineers get paid crap and it takes so long to get paid well (not sure?)...
  44. S

    Any TECHNICAL CIVIL ENGINEERING DRAWING SITES

    Homework Statement cAN SOME ONE POST LINKS TO USEFUL TECHANICAL CIVIL ENGINEERING DRAWINGS SITES OR ANYTHING. Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution
  45. A

    Is a PE License Essential for Career Advancement in Civil Engineering?

    I'll be transferring to a school offering civil engineering after the years of trying out different majors, I think I'm finally going after what was meant for me. Excited yet disappointed that the degree isn't exactly civil engineering but civil engineering technology. I've researched what...
  46. M

    Civil vs Electrical Engineering: Making the Right Choice

    Good morning all, Well it's finals week at my school and I've been studying for the past few days. Anyway, a dillema that I've been trying to deal with is deciding whether or not to switch over to electrical engineering. I've been a civil because I wanted to design buildings as a kid. Now...
  47. S

    Architect verses Civil Engineer

    What's the difference between an architect and civil engineer. WHo has harder work?
  48. L

    PE license for Civil and mechanical engineers

    To all the civil/mechanical uni. grads out there, So after u have completed your Bachelor's degree in civil/mechanical engineering and u work for 4 years as an assistant engineer, can u apply to take the FE/FS exam to become a professional engineer? The total fees (registration + exam) is...
  49. V

    Programs What can I expect as a civil engineering major?

    Hello everyone! I am currently finishing up my physics and calc, and although it's been a little tough, I am determined to complete my studies. I don't know of any civil majors in this forum, however, I was hoping someone could share their experiences with me regarding the major. Thanks in...
  50. A

    Is Civil Engineering a Good Career Path?

    I was curious if anyone has this as a job/major? I'm 100% sure I'm going into it. I haven't done any job shadowing =(. I really want to, but, I personally don't know anyone who does it. For those who do it: How are the working conditions? I heard you work with a lot of people also. I was...
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