Building Services Engineer

Typical Salary

£20,000 To £50,000

Typical Hours

39 to 41 a week

on call as customers demand

How To Become a Building Services Engineer

You can get into this job through:

a university course
a college course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
applying directly

College / University

You could study for a degree accredited by the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers.

building services engineering
architectural engineering
mechanical engineering and building services

2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths

You could take a course, which may help you to get a trainee position in building services engineering. Courses include:

T level in Design, Surveying and Planning
Higher National Diploma in Building Services, or Mechanical and Electrical Engineering

4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level

1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national certificate or higher national di

Apprenticeship

You could start by completing a higher apprenticeship for building services engineering technicians or one for building energy management controls engineers.

4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

Routes into this Career

You may be able to work as a building services technician and complete qualifications on the job, or part time with a training provider.

You can apply directly for jobs if you've got qualifications and experience in an engineering trade.

Relevant engineering experience from other industries is highly valued by employers. Skills in electrical, mechanical, environmental, acoustic or power engineering are good examples.

Other Routes

Other Routes are not listed for this job.

Skills And Knowledge

You'll need:

knowledge of engineering science and technology
maths knowledge
analytical thinking skills
to be thorough and pay attention to detail
the ability to read English
excellent verbal communication skills
knowledge of building and construction
the ability to use your initiative
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Day To Day Tasks

You could:

create plans using CAD and building information modelling software
design and install controls for systems like heating and ventilation
estimate costs
make sure jobs meet building regulations and health and safety requirements
attend meetings and present ideas and progress reports
coordinate the work of technicians and craftspeople

Working Environment

You could work on a construction site or in an office.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

Career Path & Progression

With experience, you could move into senior project management, quantity surveying or engineering design.

You could also work as a consultant.

Volunteering Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

Tips & Information

Professional and industry bodies

You can join the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers for access to industry news, study resources and professional development courses.

Further information

You can find more advice about careers and qualifications in building services from the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers.

Restrictions & Requirements

Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.