Job Description

This job is part of our sustainability series: > See more sustainable job ideas > Find out more about sustainable careers

A Building Service Engineer is involved in the designing, fitting and maintenance of the essential services and equipment found in new and existing buildings.

Entry Requirements

You can get this job through:

College

You could take a course, which may help you to get a trainee position in building services engineering. You could do a course relevant to Building Services or Mechanical and Electrical Engineering.

You may need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths.

The following local colleges offer courses in Construction/Engineering:

Or your local 6th form may offer a relevant course.

Apprenticeship

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

You could also do a building services design engineer degree apprenticeship.

You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship.

Click here to search for an apprenticeship.

University

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

Courses include:

building services engineering
architectural engineering
mechanical engineering and building services

Employers may accept you if you have a related degree, like electrical engineering, construction and the built environment or sustainable construction.

You could apply to join a company as a graduate trainee after you finish your course.

You'll usually need 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths.

Click here to search for a suitable course.

Career Tips

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

You could 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.

Career Path and Progression

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

You could also work as a consultant.

Related careers you may be interested in:

Commercial energy assessor
Electrical engineer
Electrician
Facilities manager
Gas service technician

Required Skills

Good problem solving skills
An analytical mind
Good communication both written and verbal
The ability to work well as part of a team
Excellent IT skills

Salary Range

£20,000 to £50,000

Building Service Engineer