Building Services Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of urbanization and modernization, the role of building services engineers has taken center stage.

As structures rise and spaces evolve, the demand for proficient individuals who can design, implement, and maintain our built environment continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a building services engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker attempting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the complex world of building services engineering,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable building services engineer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Building Services Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Building Services Engineers are responsible for the design, installation, and maintenance of systems that make a building comfortable, functional, efficient and safe.

These systems typically include heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), water supply, fire protection, and sometimes power, lighting and transport systems.

The duties and responsibilities of a Building Services Engineer include:

• Designing, managing and supervising projects, establishing and maintaining regular contact with clients
• Inspecting and assessing buildings to monitor and improve energy efficiency
• Designing and implementing systems for heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and other environmental control systems
• Working closely with other professionals such as architects, structural engineers, and construction managers
• Ensuring the maintenance of building systems and conducting regular inspections to assess the condition of these systems
• Advising clients and architects on energy use and conservation in a range of buildings and sites, aiming to minimise the environmental impact and reduce the carbon footprint
• Designing systems that ensure the safety and comfort of people in the building, including fire safety systems, lifts and escalators
• Using specialist computer-aided design (CAD) software and other resources to design the systems required for the project
• Preparing tender applications and presentations
• Complying with relevant health and safety regulations and quality standards

 

Building Services Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Building Services Engineer to manage, design, and oversee the installation and maintenance of all the essential services in a building.

These services include heating, lighting, power, water supply, and air conditioning.

The Building Services Engineer will be responsible for ensuring that these services are installed and maintained effectively, efficiently, and safely.

The ideal candidate will have a strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems and a keen eye for detail.

 

Responsibilities

• Design, manage and supervise projects, establish client brief, technical requirements, scope of works, cost plans and agree deliverables, i.e. report, specifications, and drawings.
• Undertake technical and feasibility studies including site investigations.
• Ensure projects are running in line with the agreed cost and time frameworks.
• Manage and oversee the design and implementation of building services systems (heating, lighting, power, etc).
• Liaise closely with other professionals, including structural engineers, architects, and surveyors.
• Monitor the installation of services and manage their maintenance once the building is completed.
• Ensure all building services meet health and safety requirements and environmental legislation.
• Commission, organise and assess the work of contractors.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Building Services Engineer or similar role.
• Excellent knowledge of building services and systems, building management systems, and associated regulations.
• Good project management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Excellent team working and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects.
• BSc degree in Engineering, Building Services, or relevant field.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Building Services Engineer
• Work Environment: This position requires a mix of working in an office setting and on-site visits. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Engineering Manager or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $82,000 minimum to $110,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Building Services Engineer Do?

Building Services Engineers play a pivotal role in the construction and maintenance industry.

They work for construction companies, engineering firms, and various other organizations involved in building services.

These professionals are responsible for designing, installing, and maintaining the essential services and equipment found in buildings.

These services include heating, lighting, air-conditioning, electrical services, water supply, and sanitation.

Building Services Engineers work closely with architects and other engineering specialists to ensure that buildings are not only structurally sound but also have effective internal systems.

They aim to create comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient environments.

They manage and supervise projects, ensuring that work is completed on time and within budget.

They conduct regular site inspections to monitor progress and check the quality of work.

Furthermore, they have a responsibility to consider the environmental impact of their work.

This includes researching and implementing renewable energy systems or energy-saving measures, and ensuring compliance with environmental legislation.

Building Services Engineers also identify and solve design and operational problems, ensuring that a building’s services meet the needs of the people who use them.

They may also be involved in the upgrading and refurbishment of existing buildings to improve energy efficiency or adapt to new uses.

 

Building Services Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Building Services Engineer must demonstrate a variety of technical and soft skills, as well as knowledge of the industry to ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of building systems.

These include:

• Proficiency in using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software and Building Information Modelling (BIM) for creating and managing digital representations of physical and functional characteristics of buildings.
• Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems to ensure these are efficiently designed and coordinated.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify, analyse and remedy issues related to building services such as HVAC, lighting, power and security systems.
• Knowledge of building and construction regulations, standards, and guidelines to ensure compliance in all projects.
• Exceptional communication skills to liaise effectively with architects, contractors, and clients, as well as to present reports and findings.
• Project management skills to oversee projects from inception to completion, ensuring that they are completed on time and within budget.
• Environmental awareness and understanding of sustainable design principles to create energy-efficient building services.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse team of professionals including architects, builders, and other engineers.
• Strong attention to detail and precision in executing tasks, especially when conducting inspections and assessments.

 

Building Services Engineer Experience Requirements

Building Services Engineers generally have a degree in engineering or a related field, where they gain a solid theoretical foundation and some practical experience.

Entry-level roles in building services engineering often require 1 to 2 years of experience.

This can be attained through internships, part-time positions, or roles in a related field such as mechanical or electrical engineering.

After a few years on the job, building services engineers would have gained experience in areas like heating and cooling systems, electrical systems, and building management systems.

They are often involved in the design, installation, and maintenance of these systems in various types of buildings.

Those with more than 5 years of experience likely have been involved in project management or leadership roles.

They would have a strong understanding of building regulations and safety standards.

These seasoned professionals may be ready for senior roles or team-lead positions in the field.

In addition to the technical skills, building services engineers are expected to have excellent problem-solving skills, the ability to manage projects and teams, and a good knowledge of sustainable practices and energy efficiency.

Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technologies and trends in the industry are also important aspects of this role.

 

Building Services Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Building Services Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering, with a focus on civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering.

Courses should cover areas such as heating and ventilation, electrical technology, and building design, as these are crucial aspects of the role.

In many cases, practical experience, such as an internship or apprenticeship, is highly valuable.

This can be gained whilst studying or after graduation.

Some roles may require a master’s degree in building services engineering or a related discipline.

This advanced qualification can allow for a more specialized understanding of specific areas such as energy management or environmental engineering.

Most employers expect Building Services Engineers to be licensed Professional Engineers (PE), a credential which requires passing two exams and gaining practical work experience.

Continuing education is also important in this field as technology and regulations often change.

Some engineers may opt to pursue certification in areas like energy management or HVAC systems, both of which can demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and a deepening of specialized knowledge.

Membership in professional societies, like the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), can provide networking opportunities and access to the latest industry research and resources.

This can also demonstrate a commitment to professional growth and adherence to industry standards.

 

Building Services Engineer Salary Expectations

A Building Services Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $75,000 (USD) per year.

This figure may fluctuate based on the engineer’s experience, education, the complexity of the projects they undertake, and the region in which they work.

 

Building Services Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Building Services Engineer need?

Building Services Engineers should have a strong understanding of building systems and construction processes.

They also need excellent problem-solving skills to find solutions to complex building issues.

Communication skills are important as they often have to work with contractors, architects, and clients.

Additionally, they should have good project management skills to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.

 

Do Building Services Engineers need a degree?

Yes, typically a Building Services Engineer needs a degree in a relevant field such as Building Services Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering.

Some positions may also require a postgraduate qualification or professional certification.

In addition, all Building Services Engineers must have a strong understanding of building codes and regulations.

 

What should you look for in a Building Services Engineer resume?

In a Building Services Engineer’s resume, look for a relevant degree and any additional qualifications or certifications.

Also, experience in building services engineering is crucial so check for evidence of this.

Familiarity with building codes and health and safety regulations is also important.

Lastly, check for skills such as problem-solving, communication, and project management.

 

What qualities make a good Building Services Engineer?

A good Building Services Engineer is analytical and detail-oriented, able to scrutinize complex building systems and identify potential issues.

They should be problem solvers who can find practical and cost-effective solutions to these issues.

Good communication skills are essential as they will need to liaise with multiple parties.

Finally, they should be able to manage projects effectively, ensuring they are completed on time and within budget.

 

How challenging is it to hire Building Services Engineers?

The difficulty in hiring Building Services Engineers largely depends on the specific requirements of the job and the current market conditions.

There can be challenges in finding candidates with the right balance of technical knowledge, practical experience, and soft skills such as communication and project management.

Therefore, it might be beneficial to work with a recruitment agency that specializes in this field.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the mysteries of what being a building services engineer truly entails.

And guess what?

It’s not just about designing systems.

It’s about shaping the structural future, one blueprint at a time.

With our go-to building services engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to make a move.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume to an engineering marvel.

Remember:

Every blueprint is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s build that future. Together.

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