Careers In Construction Engineering – Building Services Engineer
What all important skills, qualifications and attributes do you need to become a building services engineer? Here we share the job description, key responsibilities, salary projections, and career opportunities.
If you are looking for a varied career becoming a building services engineer might be just the ticket! From shops, factories and offices, to schools, homes and public building, building services engineers are responsible for designing the services needed in a building; including heating and ventilation, hot and cold water systems, lighting, electrical cabling and telecommunications networks.
Building Services Engineer – Job Description
Typically the role of a building service engineer includes:
- Scoping study – early planning with architects at a new site where construction has not yet begun
- Drawing up plans using computer aided design and building information modelling software
- Estimating costs
- Making sure jobs meet Building Regulations and health and safety requirements
- Site visits to see how your designs are working in practice
- Attending meetings and presenting ideas and progress reports to managers and clients
- Coordinating the work of installers, technicians and craftspeople on site
- Managing the operation and maintenance of building services in a completed facility
Problem-solving skills are a number one priority for this kind of job, as well as being prepared to get your hands dirty. Building services engineers combine technical planning and design work together with hands-on installation.
Qualifications And Experience
The Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) suggests entry at craft or technician level with GCSE Science, Maths, English and preferably Design Technology. This might be in a related area such as heating and ventilation, followed by further education such as a BTEC or A Levels. Alternatively choose a degree with Engineering Council accreditation, followed by a graduate training scheme.
If you want to gain qualifications while working then an Advanced Apprenticeship in Building Services Technology could be the solution.
Building services companies are always interested in candidates with experience in other areas of engineering, get in contact directly to see whether your skills are relevant and sought after.
Continued Professional Development
CPD is essential for anyone working as an engineer, ensuring that you keep up-to-date with new technologies, developments and changes to rules and regulations. Read our post on CPD for further information.
Career Development
Career progression of Building Services Engineers generally takes the form of gaining more senior and managerial roles. You may also decide to specialise and become a Consulting Engineer in a particular area such as sustainability and renewable energy.
Salary Projection
- Starting salaries are between £20,000 and £24,000 a year
- Experienced engineers can earn between £25,000 and £45,000
- Senior engineers can earn upwards of £45,000 a year.
If you are looking for a position as a building services engineer, or want to recruit one, get in touch with the Energi People team. You can also search for building services vacancies here.