Controls design is a specialist discipline that draws on a range of technical skills including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, ICT/digital and finding novel solutions to controls problems. For example, a typical project might include consideration of how air source heat pumps can be controlled in the most efficient way, discussions with manufacturers and the client to ensure that the proposed operation is appropriate for the buildings use.
The Building Performance & Systems team also specialises in improving and optimising the performance and energy efficiency of existing buildings, implementing learnings from new build controls projects. You will have the opportunity to work on these projects, using your controls skills to interrogate and analyse controls graphics and data to diagnose problems and propose solutions to improve performance.
The Opportunity
Your role will be working as specialist controls engineer within the Building Performance & Systems team in London or Glasgow. Primarily this will involve designing the Building Management System (BMS), essentially the ‘brain' of the building, for a wide range of new buildings. The BMS monitors and controls the building's mechanical, electrical and public health (water) systems, and the role of a controls specialist plays a critical part in ensuring buildings perform well and deliver maximum energy efficiency.
You will work on a variety of projects with other Arup teams including mechanical, electrical and public health engineers to deliver the specialist controls element of the project. This includes opportunities to work across multiple building sectors including commercial offices, residential, education, hospitals, laboratories and research facilities, transport, museums and art galleries, data centres and much more.
Your role will include not just working with other Arup engineering project teams, but also clients, contractors and building operators / facilities management staff. Your work will include attending building sites to test and witness controls systems for new construction projects and also visit existing buildings to undertake building performance investigations.
Is this role right for you?
For this opportunity, we are seeking the following qualifications, skills and attributes:
* Master's level degree (or bachelor's at 2:1 or above) in Engineering Science, Mechanical, Electrical or Building Services Engineering or Mechatronics
* Strong interest in the built environment, and how buildings work dynamically, in operation
* Interest in developing a range of skills including mechanical, electrical, public health, ICT, digital, human factors.
* Awareness of, and interest in, digital technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) in the built environment
* Excellent written English, and able to provide evidence/example of own work, if requested
* Strong numerical skills
* Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel
* Creative approach to problem solving
* Ability to work effectively both individually and as part of a team
* Demonstrate an organised approach to work and meeting deadlines
* Able to use your own initiative, be inquisitive and proactive
We're Looking For
Changemakers: A passion for sustainable development and creating a better world is key.
Innovative minds: We're looking for critical thinkers who embrace new ideas and challenge the status quo.
Growth seekers: You have a growth mindset, always eager to learn and explore new ways of working.
Adaptable adventurers: You're ready to take on any challenge that comes your way.
You should be able to start this opportunity in September 2026.
Advert closing date: 6th December 2025
Please note, in the event of high applicant volume, this role may be closed ahead of the advertised closing date. Early application is recommended.
Location Preferences
While the role you applied for is based in the location specified in the job advert, we may have other opportunities that align with your profile. To help us assess this, please let us know which Arup office locations you would be interested in working in on your application form
Duplicate applications
Please note, candidates are permitted to submit only one application per recruitment cycle. We recommend reviewing all available opportunities and selecting the role and location(s) that best align with your skills and interests before applying.
Eligibility
Please note that we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. Therefore, you must ensure that you are eligible to work permanently in the UK without our sponsorship.