Engineers
Learn more about engineers below…
What is a career in engineering in health and social care?
Engineers in health and social care play a vital role in maintaining and improving the infrastructure, equipment, and systems that keep healthcare facilities running safely and efficiently. There are several types of engineering specialisms within this field.
Biomedical engineers design, test, and maintain medical devices and life-saving equipment, ensuring patients receive the best possible care.
Plant maintenance engineers keep essential hospital systems, such as backup power supplies and water treatment facilities, in top working order.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) engineers ensure hospitals and care settings have safe, controlled environments, which is crucial for infection prevention and patient comfort.
Building services engineers oversee electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems, ensuring healthcare buildings are safe, energy-efficient, and fully functional.
Entry routes and pay
One of the most common ways to enter engineering is through an apprenticeship, which combines paid on-the-job training with formal study. Relevant apprenticeships include:
- Level 3 Engineering Technician Apprenticeship (ideal for plant maintenance, HVAC, or building services roles)
- Level 3 Healthcare Engineering Specialist Technician Apprenticeship (focused on medical equipment and hospital systems)
- Degree Apprenticeships in Building Services, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering (for more advanced roles)
Apprenticeships usually require GCSEs (or equivalent) in maths, English, and science and take between 2-4 years to complete.
If you prefer a classroom-based route, you can study a Level 3 Diploma in a relevant subject before progressing into employment or further training. These courses can lead to entry-level jobs or higher-level apprenticeships.
For those aiming for senior roles in engineering, a degree in engineering is often required. Relevant degree subjects include:
- Biomedical Engineering (for careers in medical equipment design and maintenance)
- Mechanical or Electrical Engineering (for plant maintenance and HVAC roles)
- Building Services Engineering (for infrastructure and facilities management)
Entry requirements typically include A-levels (or equivalent) in maths, physics, and another science or engineering-related subject. Some universities also accept BTECs in Engineering or T Levels in Building Services Engineering.
Entry level roles usually start at £23,615 with opportunities to progress and apply to senior roles up to £36,483 and above.
Where can you work?
Ambulance Service
Community
Hospital
