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As artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly evolves, its integration into civil engineering presents both significant opportunities and challenges. Through a qualitative analysis of interview, survey, and reflection journal data, this study explores the perspectives of early-career civil engineers regarding the current and potential roles of AI in engineering practice. While AI is seen as a valuable tool for automating routine tasks and enhancing efficiency, concerns persist about its reliability, ethical implications, and potential overreliance. Participants emphasized the importance of maintaining human oversight, with AI serving as an aid rather than a replacement for engineering judgment. The study identifies key competencies essential for engineers to effectively and ethically integrate AI, including AI literacy, critical thinking, ethics, and cybersecurity awareness. As AI continues to influence the field, it is crucial to equip engineers with these competencies through education and ongoing professional development. The paper offers recommendations for integrating responsible AI practices into engineering education and the workplace, highlighting the need for continuous training in both technical skills and ethical decision-making. This research contributes to the growing literature on responsible AI integration, providing insights that can guide the future workforce in navigating the complexities of AI-enhanced engineering practices.