Project Engineer - Consultancy
08 Mar 2019
A Project Engineer within consultancy discusses what first prompted him into the world of engineering and what a typical working day looks like for him.
Q. What qualifications do you have?
A. A First Class Honours Mechanical Engineering degree from Technological University Dublin
Q. What made you choose engineering as a career?
A. I have always had a fascination with technology, figuring out how things work, problem solving and how to make new devices. In addition, engineering encourages you to develop new thought processes that will generate new ways to solve a problem. Engineering is a strong and competitive industry to be in.
Q. What are the different aspects of your job?
A. In previous jobs, I served as a project engineer, where we looked at a client’s property and came up with a solution for it, i.e. in heating, cooling, HVAC services etc. In my current role as an energy services engineer, my job focuses more on supervising and overseeing activities such as replacement of equipment, lighting systems etc. There is a big focus on health & safety now more than ever, and this is part of my role, ensuring that works are safe to proceed and that all necessary permits etc. have been procured.
Q. Describe your typical day?
A. My role as energy services engineer is varied, and each day can be different to the next. On one day, I may be based in an office, dealing with data, managing projects, organising deliveries etc. On another day, I may be on site, supervising works and ensuring that health and safety and site safety procedures are being observed.
Q. Is there a constant need to upskill in your particular area?
A. Often, certain training programs may be necessary or beneficial to an individual and/or a company. For example, certain projects may need to be signed off on by a person with a certain qualification, and so having that qualification greatly speeds up the process. There usually isn’t any pressure to upskill, though it is advantageous to the individual’s personal and professional development.
Q. If so, how do you upskill?
A. I am scheduled to undertake an energy assessment program in the coming months, wherein I will gain certification.
Q. Are you supported by your employers in this?
A. Yes, my employers suggested the program and they are paying for it.
Q. Engineering took a huge hit during the recession. What do you think can be done to future proof your industry / sector?
A. It is important to look ahead at new and emerging technologies and go with them. For example in the domestic and industrial heating field, heat pumps are becoming more and more prevalent due to increased efficiency and a lower environmental impact. It would be advisable for a company to invest in these, while keeping an eye on the maintenance and repair of older technologies that may better suit some customers; by diversifying, a company will have more to offer in an ever changing marketplace and will be able to take on more opportunities.