16 Building Engineer Skills for Your Career and Resume

Building engineers are responsible for the maintenance and operation of buildings and their systems. They use a variety of skills to perform their duties, including problem-solving, critical thinking and customer service. If you’re interested in a career as a building engineer, understanding these skills can help you determine if this is the right job for you.

Problem Solving

Problem solving is the ability to identify and resolve issues. As a building engineer, you may need to solve problems that arise during construction or maintenance of buildings. For example, if there’s an issue with the electrical system, you might be able to find a solution by researching the problem online or asking someone else who has experience in this area.

Electrical Systems

Electrical systems are the components that allow buildings to function. They include lighting, electrical outlets and switches, fire alarms, security cameras and other devices that require power. Building engineers use their knowledge of electrical systems when designing new structures or updating existing ones. This skill also allows them to troubleshoot any issues with electrical systems in buildings they maintain.

Customer Service

Customer service skills are important for building engineers because they can help you interact with clients and customers in a positive manner. Customer service skills include active listening, empathy and the ability to resolve customer issues quickly and effectively. Building engineers who have strong customer service skills may be more likely to advance within their field or find employment faster.

Technical Skills

Technical skills are the abilities you have to perform your job duties. Building engineers use technical skills in their work, such as when they design and build electrical systems or operate machinery. You can develop these skills by taking classes at a community college or university, reading books on engineering topics and attending workshops.

Life Safety Systems

Life safety systems are the components of a building that ensure people’s health and safety. Building engineers use life safety skills to maintain these systems, including fire alarms, sprinkler systems, emergency lighting and other elements. This is an important skill for maintaining safe working conditions in buildings and ensuring the safety of those who work or visit them.

Refrigeration Systems

Refrigeration systems are used in a variety of settings, including restaurants and grocery stores. Building engineers who have knowledge about refrigeration systems can help ensure that these machines operate safely and effectively. This skill set is especially important for those working with large commercial refrigeration units.

Fire Protection Systems

Fire protection systems are a crucial part of the building engineer’s job. They ensure that all fire safety equipment is working properly and can repair or replace it if needed. Building engineers also design and install new fire protection systems when buildings are built. This includes designing sprinkler systems, smoke detectors and alarms.

Construction

Construction knowledge is necessary for building engineers to have because it allows them to understand the materials and processes involved in constructing buildings. This can help them determine how a structure might perform under different conditions, such as earthquakes or high winds, and make suggestions on how to improve its design. Construction skills also allow building engineers to know what types of tools they need when inspecting a building’s construction site.

Communication

Communication is the ability to convey information clearly and concisely. As a building engineer, you may need to communicate with clients, contractors and other members of your team. Strong communication skills can help you relay instructions, answer questions and resolve issues more efficiently. Consider taking classes in public speaking or developing a professional email signature that includes contact information so others can easily reach you.

Building Automation Systems

Automation systems are the software and hardware that allow a building to function. Building engineers use automation skills when designing, installing and maintaining these systems. This includes knowledge of electrical engineering, mechanical engineering and computer programming. It’s important for building engineers to understand how different aspects of a building work together so they can design them effectively.

Maintenance

Maintenance is the process of keeping a system in working order. As a building engineer, you may be responsible for maintaining and repairing electrical systems, plumbing systems and other mechanical components. Having knowledge about how to maintain these systems can help ensure they continue to function properly. You may also work with maintenance staff who handle routine repairs and maintenance tasks.

Organization

Organization is the ability to keep track of various information and resources. As a building engineer, you may need to organize your time efficiently so that you can complete all necessary tasks in a timely manner. You also might use organizational skills when working with blueprints or other documents related to construction projects.

Energy Management Systems

Building engineers use energy management systems to monitor and regulate the flow of electricity in buildings. They may also design, install and maintain these systems, which require knowledge of electrical engineering principles. Building engineers who have this skill can help reduce a building’s carbon footprint by using renewable energy sources and implementing other energy-saving measures.

Plumbing

Plumbing skills are necessary for building engineers to have because they often work with plumbing systems in buildings. They need to understand how these systems function and what the consequences of different actions might be. For example, if a building engineer notices that a water valve is leaking, they may know how to fix it themselves or direct someone else to do so.

Time Management

Time management is the ability to plan and execute tasks in a way that ensures you meet deadlines. As a building engineer, time management skills are important because they allow you to complete projects on time and satisfy your employer’s expectations. It also helps you ensure safety by ensuring all necessary inspections occur before construction begins.

HVAC

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning. This is a common aspect of building engineering that involves the maintenance and operation of mechanical systems in buildings. Building engineers need to understand how HVAC works so they can properly maintain it and ensure its safety. They also use their knowledge of HVAC when designing new buildings or making changes to existing ones.

How Can I Learn These Building Engineer Skills?

There are many ways that you can learn the skills necessary to be a successful building engineer. Many of these skills can be learned through on the job training, or through formal education. Many community colleges offer courses in electrical systems, fire protection, HVAC, and other building related topics. There are also many online courses available that can help you learn the skills necessary to be a successful building engineer.