Thermal Insulation Engineer
Job Description:Thermal insulation engineers install insulating materials around pipes, boilers and ductwork in factories and buildings.
Job Category:What you will do:
You will:
- plan where to put insulation
- choose the best materials and tools to use for a particular job
- prepare and clean areas to be insulated
- measure and cut insulation materials to size
- fasten insulation using clips, sprays, adhesives or wire bands
- seal work areas after fitting insulation
- remove old insulation, like asbestos, in line with health and safety regulations
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of building and construction
- knowledge of maths
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- the ability to use your initiative
- the ability to work well with your hands
- persistence and determination (ambition/drive)
- excellent verbal communication skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Thermal Insulation Engineer, you don’t typically need specific qualifications, but certain subjects and skills can be valuable in preparing for this career. Thermal insulation engineering involves working with materials and techniques to control heat flow in various applications. Here are some relevant subjects:
- Mathematics: Strong math skills are essential for performing calculations related to heat transfer, measurements, and material quantities.
- Science: Subjects like Physics and Chemistry can provide you with a foundational understanding of principles related to heat, thermodynamics, and the properties of insulation materials.
- Design and Technology: Courses related to design and technology can help you develop practical skills in working with tools and equipment, which are essential for thermal insulation tasks.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): Proficiency in using computers and software can be beneficial for reading technical drawings and specifications, accessing online resources, and documenting work.
- English: Effective communication skills are important for understanding and following instructions, working with clients and colleagues, and creating reports or documentation.
- Engineering or Technical Subjects: If your school offers courses in engineering, technical drawing, or similar subjects, consider taking them as they can provide valuable insights into engineering principles and practices.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- applying directly
College
You can do a college course to get some of the skills needed in this job. Courses include:
- Level 2 Diploma in Access to Building Services Engineering
- Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating
- Level 2 Diploma in Engineering
Apprenticeship
You can do a thermal insulation operative and technician intermediate or advanced apprenticeship.
Work
You could start work as a labourer with a construction or heating engineering company, and do training on the job to become an insulation engineer.
Direct Application
You can get into this work if you’ve got experience and qualifications in pipe fitting, heating and ventilation, refrigeration or air conditioning.
Working Hours and Environment:
Typically you could work 42 to 44 hours a week.
You could work on a construction site, in a factory or at a manufacturing plant.
Your working environment may be cramped, dusty and physically demanding.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career Path & Progression:
You could take further training while you work to move into a technical, supervisory or managerial role, like foreperson, site safety officer or building services technician.
You could also find work in a related industry, like heating and ventilation engineering or air-conditioning and refrigeration.