When it comes to the responsibilities of today’s building engineer, being well-rounded and showing expertise in many areas is the secret to staying busy in today’s economy. After the COVID-19 pandemic, specific cuts in staff have been necessary for nearly every industry as we all get back to work. The more versatile an engineer is the more maintenance and repair services for commercial buildings, the more valuable they become. Some building engineers work alone, while others are part of a team of specialists.
What Areas Should a Building Engineer Be Skilled In?
During an average workday, our building engineer will be prepared to inspect, service, and perform routine maintenance on all aspects of commercial buildings. They may need to address problems and service issues on the heating, cooling, and ventilation systems. Most electrical functions come under the wheelhouse of a building engineer, everything from changing light bulbs to changing out fixtures and wall outlets. Our engineer may handle alarm systems, heating boilers, chillers, swimming pools, and surveillance systems.
What About Compliance Issues?
Most commercial buildings must comply with local building and fire codes. Following inspection schedules diligently is a job requirement of building engineers. In addition to the fire and building codes, they must also check and maintain compliance with federal, state, and local health and disabilities codes. There may also be circumstances when an engineer is required to outsource a job due to local or state licensing laws. So, being up to date on these codes and understanding licensing statutes is necessary to meet compliance.
How is a Building Engineer Trained and Educated?
Many building engineers carry knowledge from specialized trades, such as plumbing or electrical, to their jobs. Others may gain on-the-job experience. These days, many community colleges offer education on building and facilities maintenance.
There are also professional organizations that building engineers may join to increase their knowledge and skill. One such organization is NAPE Educational Foundation. The National Association of Power Engineers is one of the best comprehensive training and education sources in the building maintenance and repair industry in the Washington, D.C. area. Members can earn certification through their educational programs. It’s an excellent way for them to increase their knowledge base as they grow their careers.
Essential Qualities for New and Prospective Building Engineers
In most cases, companies will require a high-school diploma for employment as a building engineer. But, employers will look for some qualities, both professional and personal, in prospects. An applicant needs to pass a background check since they will have access to all building areas they do maintenance for. Obviously, the job will have some physical tasks, so stamina and strength are necessary.
Other skills that are needed will include:
- Customer Service Skills
- Troubleshooting/Analytical Skills
- Time Management Skills
- Organizational Skills
How We Can Help
At BMSI, we place priority on our clients, our engineers, and the industry overall. It’s a great place to start a career as a building engineer or grow in your role as one. Our clients and our employees both appreciate the help we can bring to the field by providing support and strategic partnerships between property managers, our engineers, and ourselves.
If we can help with any aspects of this flourishing profession, reach out to us at BMSI. We’re available to help you find the right job and the right person for the job.
