What is a Building Services Engineer Job?
A building services engineer job involves designing, installing, and maintaining the mechanical and electrical systems in buildings. These systems include heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, plumbing, and fire safety. Building services engineers use their technical knowledge and expertise to ensure that buildings are safe, energy-efficient, and comfortable for occupants. They work in a range of sectors, including commercial, residential, and industrial.
What Usually Do in This Position?
Building services engineers are responsible for planning, designing, and implementing mechanical and electrical systems in buildings. They work with architects, contractors, and other professionals to ensure that the systems are installed correctly and meet the needs of the building's occupants. They also maintain and repair these systems to ensure that they are functioning properly. Building services engineers may be involved in a range of tasks, from developing energy-efficient solutions to troubleshooting problems with the systems.
Top 5 Skills for Position
- Technical knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems
- Problem-solving skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with other professionals
- Attention to detail
- Effective communication skills
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become a building services engineer, you typically need a bachelor's degree in mechanical or electrical engineering or a related field. Some employers may also require a professional engineering license. Building services engineers can gain experience through internships or entry-level positions and may have the opportunity to specialize in a particular area of building services, such as energy management or fire safety.
Average Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for mechanical engineers, which includes building services engineers, was $88,430 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and level of education.
Roles and Types
Building services engineers may work in a range of roles, including design engineer, project manager, and consultant. They may also specialize in a particular area of building services, such as energy management, fire safety, or sustainability. Some building services engineers work for consulting firms, while others work in-house for large organizations.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Building services engineer jobs are available across the United States, but some locations have a higher concentration of these jobs than others. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the top states for mechanical engineers, which includes building services engineers, are California, Texas, Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois.
What are the Typical Tools?
Building services engineers may use a range of tools and technologies to perform their job duties. These can include computer-aided design (CAD) software, energy modeling software, and testing equipment for mechanical and electrical systems. They may also use project management software to keep track of project timelines and budgets.
In Conclusion
Building services engineer jobs are an important part of the construction industry, ensuring that buildings are safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient. With a bachelor's degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, and the right skills and experience, you can pursue a rewarding career in this field. Building services engineers work in a range of roles and may specialize in a particular area of building services, such as energy management or fire safety. With the right tools and technologies, building services engineers can help to create buildings that are both functional and sustainable.