Overview
Building services engineers install, maintain, and often design cost-effective systems such as heating, lighting, ventilation, air-conditioning, electrical, and water that contribute to the functionality of a building.
Sustainability is a very important aspect of their job with having to design, develop, and manage new technologies that reduce a building’s carbon emissions.
They work in collaboration with architects and other construction professionals on various commercial projects including offices, schools, shopping centres, hospitals, and stadiums, along with residential developments, and often specialise in one field such as electrical or mechanical engineering.
Skills
There is a certain skill set required to have what it takes to be a building services engineer. You’ll need:
- Excellent mathematical knowledge
- Good grasp of science and technological concepts
- Strong understanding of buildings and construction
- Critical thinking
- Numeracy and budgeting skills
- The ability to use your initiative
- Problem-solving
- Great attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Time management skills
- Teamwork skills
- The ability to analyse large amounts of data
- Familiarity with industry-specific software and programmes
Learning Style
Qualifications
There are a number of ways you can become an Building Services Engineer, as a minimum you will need 5 or more GCSEs grades A-C (9-4) and a minimum of 2 A Levels or BTEC equivalent.
Level 3
You can study a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma or a relevant apprenticeship.
Level 4, 5 & 6
You can study a HNC, HND, Higher or Degree Apprenticeship or a Degree.
With experience you could work towards Technician membership with CIBSE.
Salary
Newly trained building services engineers can earn £24,000 – £27,000
Trained building services engineers with some experience can earn £27,000 – £35,000
Senior building services engineers can earn £35,000 – £50,000