Gas engineers are in high demand so if you’re looking for a job that you can really turn into a career then this is something worth considering. Of course, there are certain skills and qualifications that you’ll need to have. So if you’ve been wondering is it hard to become a gas engineer, you’re in the right place.
It isn’t difficult to become a gas engineer provided you have the right skills. You will need to go through training which could take between three and four years, although it is possible to do an apprenticeship so you can earn as you train.
There are lots of other things to think about before starting your path to becoming a gas engineer. In this guide, we’ll tell you how you’ll get there, what you’ll be doing, what salary you can expect and how to further your career.
What Does A Gas Engineer Do?
Ga engineers are mainly employed to install gas appliances and heating systems. They will also spend time maintaining this type of equipment and performing any repairs. When you work as a gas engineer, you will also need to test safety devices and controls in order to determine that the system is working as it should.
Your role as a gas engineer may also include responding to emergency call outs. This might include locating and dealing with gas leaks and determining and repairing faults within a gas appliance or heating system.
You will also be responsible for recording your work and offering gas safety advice to your customers. Modern gas engineers will also be able to offer advice on remaining energy efficient.
How Do You Become A Gas Engineer?
The great thing about becoming a gas engineer is that there are several routes you can take to get to where you want to be.
For those who want to be able to earn as they learn, there are gas engineer apprenticeships available. You will spend a portion of your week in a classroom environment while around 30 hours a week will be spent on the job, learning skills directly alongside qualified engineers.
There are two college courses including a Level 2 or 3 in plumbing and heating or a T Level in Building Services and Construction. However, after these courses, you would need to go on to a Level 3 course in something like Gas Utilisation, Installation and Maintenance.
If you already have a lot of experience in similar industries such as plumbing and heating, you may be able to progress to becoming a gas engineer through an Accredited Certification Scheme.
How Long Does It Take To Become A Gas Engineer?
If you decide to go down the college course route to becoming a gas engineer then you can expect the course to take between three and four years. However, if you opt for an apprenticeship, the time it takes is usually much faster and will see you becoming fully qualified in as little as 18 months.
What Skills Do You Need To Become A Gas Engineer?
Becoming a gas engineer doesn’t only require certain qualifications. You will also need to have some natural skills if you want to forward your career and be the best gas engineer you can be. These skills include the following:
- Great attention to detail
- Practical repair skills
- Be able to use your initiative
- Problem solving skills
- Excellent customer service skills
- Basic computer skills
- Patience and being able to remain calm under stress.
Is It Worth Training To Be A Gas Engineer?
If you think that becoming a gas engineer is something that would give you job satisfaction then that is the main driving force to get into the field. In this case, it’s absolutely worth pursuing. But in terms of whether the job is worth it in other ways, let’s take a look.
For starters, gas engineers are in really high demand so you shouldn’t have too many issues in securing a job once you are qualified. The great thing about this is that you’ll have excellent job stability and will be able to forge a career that sets you up for life.
There are also lots of different opportunities for gas engineers. As we mentioned earlier, you might decide to set up your own business or transfer your skills to other areas. Most gas engineers report fantastic job satisfaction so if you’re looking for something rewarding, this might be the job for you.
What Do Gas Engineers Earn?
One of the main things people want to know when deciding whether it’s worth training as a gas engineer is how much they’ll earn.
You’ll be expected to work between 40 and 43 hours a week on average and the starting salary for a newly qualified gas engineer is around £18,000. That doesn’t sound like a lot but when you consider that, after some experience, you could earn up to £38,000, it’s easy to see why this is an attractive career.
How Can I Progress My Career As A Gas Engineer?
Once you have fully trained as a gas engineer and have gained a relevant level of experience, you may be able to apply for supervisor or managerial roles within a company. This will allow you to manage a team of gas engineers.
Other people like to move on to running their own business as being self employed gives you a lot more flexibility. Some people may also move their engineering skills to other areas including working with alternative energy sources.
Conclusion
Gas engineers are responsible for installing, repairing and maintaining heating systems and gas appliances. This is a rewarding job that can see you earning a handsome salary once you have gained the right level of experience.
There are lots of options as to how you might progress your career as well as plenty of ways to train. Whether you want to learn on the job, go through college or even expand your current skills, there are ways to get to where you want to be.