Install systems including hot water heating, hot and cold water services, chilled water, warm air heating and heating appliances in industrial and commercial buildings. Develop specialist skills in installing systems using materials such as steel copper, iron, plastic and stainless steel. Work is carried out on building sites and in premises such as hospitals, factories, schools, shops, offices etc To become a fully trained and qualified Heating and Ventilating Engineer normally takes 4 years to SVQ Level 3. You will be trained by your employer and at an appropriate college. Potential engineers acquire a variety of skills, their main expertise is installing pipework using a range of materials. Learning the individual properties of each material and the most effective methods for cutting, bending and joining pipes is vital. Special training is required in welding to ensure a high standard of workmanship. Working towards your Level 3 you will need to have an interest in mechanical, electrical and practical work. Also enjoy working with your hands and have a methodical and logical approach, which will help you to understand and follow specifications and diagrams. It can be a physically demanding career and you must be prepared to work in all sorts of conditions, including working on scaffolds and below ground in cramped, awkward places.