The job of the Building Engineer is an important and varied one. It incorporates all activities involved in the creation and maintenance of the built environment, ranging from site investigations, building inspections and surveys to project design, cost evaluations, and deciding on appropriate construction methods.
Building Engineers have a good appreciation and understanding of the technology of buildings and the built environment. Communication skills are important and you will need to be a team player, leading or contributing to design projects with others and ensuring that the eventual outcome delivers value and sustainability.
Building Engineers work in such varied roles as architecture, planning, fire design, building surveying, valuations and building control.
To train as a building engineer, you will need GCSEs (A-C) / Standard Grades (1-3) in Maths and Science, which will be helpful in measurements, planning and theory. Employers will often want an honours degree in a branch of engineering, or alternatively, a BTEC, HND/HNC or other vocational qualification accredited by the Engineering Council UK (ECUK) will be accepted for those applying for trainee posts.
Corporate Building Engineers are qualified by both examination and experience when admitted as professional members of the ABE. An honours degree is a basic requirement. The letters ABEng indicate Associate membership and GradBEng indicates Graduate membership and TechBEng, Technician member.
The Association of Building Engineers (ABE) can provide more information on how it can help you get qualified, visit www.abe.org.uk for more information.
Graduates can expect to earn around £15000-£20000 and this can progress to £25000 to £55000. For more information on salaries, refer to professional institutions and industry press.
