Job Description
Main Purpose of the Job
The NBI Partnership (NBIP) provides non-scientific services to research institutes based on the Norwich Research Park, a globally recognised centre for bioscience innovation. The park is home to leading research institutes - including the John Innes Centre (JIC), Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB), Earlham Institute (EI), and The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) - supporting cutting-edge research in food security, health, and environmental sustainability. NBIP provides the facilities management (FM) services to the JIC’s, TSL’s and EI’s estates and buildings.
The Building Management Systems Maintenance Technician will perform routine and reactive maintenance on essential infrastructure and systems, ensuring the reliability, safety, and optimal performance of critical systems across NBIP-managed facilities. The role includes the ongoing management, maintenance, and operation of BMS, UPS systems, CCTV, fire detection systems, access control systems, EI/NBI Data Centres, JIC/TSL horticultural environmental systems, and leak detection systems. The role also involves managing specialist subcontractors, handling system shutdowns, and contributing to the forward planning and implementation of plant and system replacements.
The Facilities Maintenance (FM) Operations team plays a critical role in ensuring the seamless operation of essential systems across NBIP-managed facilities. This includes the maintenance of Building Management Systems (BMS), Critical Power Systems, CCTV, Fire Detection, Access Control, NBI Data Centres and specialist JIC/TSL horticultural systems.
Key Relationships
Internal: Maintenance Operations Manager, Maintenance Operations and Critical Services Supervisor, Deputy Head of FM, Infrastructure and Project Manager, FM Senior Project Manager, Energy and Environmental Manager, NGI Project Team and Specialist subcontractors and consultants, Maintenance Works Coordinator.
External: Institute staff including Operational and Laboratory Manager and the EI Business Support team.
Main Activities & Responsibilities
Planned and Reactive Maintenance
• BMS and Control Systems:
a) Monitor and control the BMS for energy efficiency, fault diagnostics, and system performance enhancement.
b) Interpret system data and trends to optimise HVAC, lighting, and other building automation components.
c) Modify software parameters, schedules, and setpoints to improve operational efficiency.
d) Oversee and manage system upgrades, commissioning, and troubleshooting of communication protocols (e.g., BACnet, Modbus, Lon Works).
e) Execute planned maintenance regimes, ensuring adherence to compliance standards (e.g., BS 7671, SFG20, CIBSE guidelines).
• Critical Power Systems (UPS and Generators): Maintain and test UPS systems, emergency power generators, and related critical infrastructure to ensure continuous power for laboratories, data centers, and other vital systems.
• Specialist Horticultural Systems: Ensure optimal performance of environmental control systems, including climate stabilisation and irrigation, in horticultural research environments.
• CCTV Systems: Oversee the installation, maintenance, and operation of CCTV systems to ensure compliance with security standards.Planned and Reactive Maintenance continued
• Fire Detection and Alarm Systems: Maintain and test fire detection systems to ensure immediate functionality in emergencies and compliance with safety regulations.
• Access Control Systems: Ensure the operation of access control systems, maintaining security protocols and ensuring authorised personnel access only.
• Leak Detection Systems: Monitor and maintain leak detection systems to prevent damage and identify potential water-related issues early.Statutory Compliance
• Ensure compliance with BS 7671 electrical safety standards, performing inspections and corrective actions as required.
• Oversee pressure system certification and maintenance in line with the Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR).
• Ensure regular testing and maintenance of fire safety systems, emergency lighting, and gas safety systems according to regulatory standards.Building Shutdowns and Emergency Preparedness
• Assist with planning and executing building-wide shutdowns for maintenance, emergency repairs, or system upgrades.
• Coordinate shutdowns with relevant teams to minimise disruption to critical operations, such as data centers and laboratories.
• Perform checks and reactivation of systems, including UPS, HVAC, and control systems, following power interruptions or shutdowns.Fault Diagnosis and Repairs
• Investigate and resolve faults in electrical, mechanical, UPS, BMS, fire detection, access control, and horticultural systems.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external contractors to resolve complex technical issues efficiently.Testing, Inspections, and Record-Keeping
• Conduct tests such as load testing for generators and calibration for environmental controls.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of maintenance activities, inspections, and corrective actions to ensure compliance with internal and regulatory requirementsContractor Liaison and Collaboration
• Coordinate with external contractors for specialised maintenance, repairs, and upgrades of critical systems.
• Ensure contractor work complies with NBIP standards and health and safety protocols.Customer Service and Communication
• Interact professionally with internal teams and external stakeholders, promptly addressing maintenance requests and system issues.
• Provide clear, timely updates regarding maintenance activities and system status.Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
• Contribute to energy-saving initiatives by optimising systems such as HVAC, lighting, and CHP.
• Recommend strategies to improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs.Other Duties
• Promote a safety-first culture across NBIP-managed facilities by adhering to health and safety protocols.
• Support environmental sustainability programs to reduce energy and water consumption.
• Perform ancillary tasks such as stock management, site cleanliness, and audit support.
• Deputise for the Maintenance Supervisor, managing team workloads and ensuring performance.
• Lead or contribute to incident response and recovery efforts, ensuring swift and effective resolutions during system failures, power outages, or environmental events.
• As agreed with the line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post.
Person Profile
Education & Qualifications
RequirementImportanceCompletion of a recognised apprenticeship or equivalent qualification in electrical, mechanical, or controls disciplines (e.g., HNC, Level 4 or above)EssentialHealth and Safety qualifications (e.g., IOSH Managing Safely)EssentialBMS-specific training or certification (e.g., Trend IQ, Siemens Desigo, Cylon, Tridium Niagara)Essential
Specialist Knowledge & Skills
RequirementImportanceExperience in BMS operation (e.g., Trend, Siemens, Schneider, Honeywell). Including communication protocols (e.g., BACnet, Modbus, Lon Works)EssentialFamiliarity with smart building technologies and digital maintenance techniquesEssentialStrong understanding of control systems, instrumentation, and energy management principlesEssentialProficient in maintaining and troubleshooting various building systems, including electrical, mechanical, and specialised controlsEssentialSignificant hands-on maintenance experience in commercial, industrial, or critical environmentsEssentialKnowledge of energy management, sustainability practices, and green building technologiesDesirableFamiliarity with fire safety systems, emergency lighting, and evacuation proceduresDesirableF-Gas certification or HVAC specialist trainingDesirable18th Edition Wiring Regulations (BS 7671)Desirable
Relevant Experience
RequirementImportanceProven experience in maintaining and operating critical systems such as BMS, UPS, fire detection, CCTV, access control, and horticultural systemsEssentialDemonstrable experience in fault diagnosis and repairs on electrical, mechanical, and control systemsEssentialExperience with business systems and BMS platforms for work order management and system monitoringEssentialExperience using Microsoft Office programmes EssentialExperience working with and operating a Siemens Desigo BMS systemDesirableExperience in managing and upgrading specialised systems such as horticultural equipment, laboratory infrastructure, or data center systemsDesirable
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
RequirementImportanceDetail-oriented with a strong focus on precision and thoroughness in maintenance tasks and compliance activitiesEssentialProactive problem solver with ability to address issues before they escalate and contribute to continuous improvement effortsEssentialAble to work effectively under changing circumstances and respond to urgent operational challengesEssentialStrong team player with the ability to work across departments and coordinate with contractorsEssentialGood interpersonal skills, with the ability to work as part of a teamEssentialStrong communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams and external contractorsEssential
Additional Requirements
RequirementImportanceAttention to detailEssentialPromotes equality and values diversityEssentialWillingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Partnership, ensuring it is a great place to workEssentialAble to present a positive image of self and the PartnershipEssentialAbility to maintain confidentiality and security of information where appropriate EssentialWillingness to work outside standard working hours when required EssentialAbility to work flexibly across multiple sites and adjust to the unique needs of research and laboratory environmentsEssential
Who We Are
NBI Partnership
The NBI Partnership provides non-scientific services to the John Innes Centre (JIC), Quadram Institute Bioscience (QIB), Earlham Institute (EI) and The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL). All of these organisations carry out scientific research funded by the UK Government, European Union, Charitable and Industrial Sponsors. The Partnership employs around 140 staff to cater for the needs of approximately 1100 Research Staff, Students and Visiting Scientists who are all located in close proximity on the Norwich Research Park.
The John Innes Centre, Quadram Institute Bioscience, the Earlham Institute and The Sainsbury Laboratory are registered charities (No’s 223852, 1058499, 1136213 and 106550) and are Equal Opportunity Employers.
For more information about working at NBI Partnership, please click here.
Department
Facilities
Living in Norfolk
1. Visit Norfolk
2. Schools in Norfolk
3. Childcare in Norfolk