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How to Become a Heating Engineer

30 October 2018, 17:51 CET

Gas engineers can have very varied roles. From the installation or service of domestic appliances to the maintenance of office buildings, or even specialising in the heating system of an entire industrial estate, no two heating engineers have the same working day.

If this is a career option that you are considering, then the good news is that there is currently a serious shortage of qualified professionals in this sector, and as such, heating engineers are in high demand. Part of the problem is that an ageing workforce is retiring, and there are a limited number of trained people ready to take up the role. Combined with the fact that it can take several years to become qualified, then it's easy to see why that skill shortage is happening.

What Qualifications Do You Need?

The standard entry route to becoming a heating engineer is by undertaking the relevant qualification courses, which is most commonly going to be an NVQ Level 3 Diploma in Gas Installation. Once this is completed, you will also need the listed on the gas safe register. There are alternative options to consider, and these will largely depend on the area that you're hoping to specialise in. For example, if you hope to be able to concentrate solely on domestic gas heating, then you can sign up for the Level 2 Certificate in Gas Utilisation Core Skills and Knowledge (QCF) ACS, which is designed for complete beginners. This course will enable you to become qualified for all domestic appliances and is a great route for those that haven't gone down the apprenticeship path.

Becoming an Apprentice

These have become less common over the course of the last decade, but the apprenticeship route remains a viable option for those that hope to earn while they learn. The requirements for an apprenticeship will vary depending on your employer, but you will generally need between 3-5 GCSEs, with English, Maths and Science considered the essentials. Although some apprenticeships can take a number of years to complete, due to the need for more qualified professionals in their sector, many are now limited to 18 months for a Level 3 qualification.

Gain Extra Experience

If those who wish to gain a little experience and a taste of what becoming a heating engineer will require, the good news is that there a variety of options available. There are 'Fast Track' courses which allow you to gain a technical competency certificate, rather than a fully recognised qualification. By choosing this type of course, you will learn valuable skills and work towards achieving a technical certificate. They are often an intensive option, and you will need to gain the necessary qualification after to become a gas engineer.

Becoming a heating engineer will require work and dedication, but the good news is that there are many revenue streams to explore once you are qualified. As the need for qualified professionals continues to grow, this could be the ideal time to consider becoming a heating engineer as a role that promises a good level of job security in the future.

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