Complete guide to gas engineering apprenticeships

Gas engineers service and repair gas appliances, and ensure they are safe for customers to use. Without gas engineers people could not heat their homes, and buildings would not be able to operate their heating or water systems. So like electricians, gas engineers are very important in the construction industry.  

But how do you become a gas engineer? Do you need an apprenticeship? How long does it take to get qualified? Find out more with our in-depth guide.  

What is a gas engineer?

A gas engineer installs, maintains and repairs gas appliances and systems within new and old buildings. Gas engineers make sure that gas appliances are safe to use, they have a wide knowledge of gas systems, parts and technology, and can decommission old systems and commission new ones. Gas engineers will be able to alter the position of pipes, understand technical diagrams and plans, and advise customers on gas service issues.  

If you’ve not heard of ‘gas engineers’, that might be because this is a job role that has quite a few names. They are also known as gas service installers, gas service engineers, gas service technicians, gas installation engineers and gas maintenance engineers.  

Do you need an apprenticeship to be a gas engineer?

You don’t need to undertake an apprenticeship in gas engineering, as there are other routes into the industry. You could complete a college course, on-the-job training or directly apply to an employer.  

However, completing an apprenticeship is a highly regarded route to qualifying as a gas engineer. First, you need to find an employer that is Gas Safe-registered and can offer you an apprenticeship. You can take the Level 2 Diploma in Plumbing and Heating, then the Level 3 Diploma in Gas Engineering or Gas Utilisation Installation and Maintenance. 

What are the entry requirements? 

To start a Level 2 apprenticeship, you usually need at least 2 GCSEs (including Maths and English) at grades 9-3 (A*-D). For Level 3, you would need to have completed the Level 2 apprenticeship or have 4-5 GCSEs (including Maths and English) at grades 9-4 (A*-C).  

What skills and knowledge do I need?

Employers will look favourably at individuals who have some relevant work experience with a Gas-Safe registered employer. You can apply directly to employers for this and ask if you can help the company during the school holidays. See if you can secure a work experience placement with a gas installation company through your school.  

You should be good with your hands and be happy working with tools and repairing things. You should have good customer service skills and excellent attention to detail. You don’t need any specific knowledge of gas appliances before your apprenticeship, but some interest and understanding of how gas systems work will impress employers.   

What level is a gas engineering apprenticeship? 

To fully qualify as a gas engineer, you have to complete the Level 3 Diploma. This is an advanced apprenticeship and equivalent to A-Levels.  

How long is a gas engineer apprenticeship?

The Level 3 apprenticeship takes at least 18 months to complete, but this is the minimum duration. It may take some apprentices longer, depending on their performance within the training programme. After taking a Level 3 apprenticeship, gas engineers can work towards becoming Gas Safe-registered, which is usually open to tradesmen who have demonstrated their competence working with gas over several years.  

Once you are Gas Safe-registered, you could start your own business as a self-employed engineer.  

Find out more about apprenticeships in construction

There are hundreds of apprenticeships available in the construction industry. Earn while you learn and gain the qualifications and experience you need for a role in the construction sector.   

• Find out more at Go Construct