At Michael Taylor Search & Selection, we work closely with contractors, consultancies, and developers across the construction sector. As a specialist service provider in construction recruitment, we see first hand how expectations for MEP professionals continue to rise. Technical competence has always mattered, but today employers are looking for a broader and more refined skill set than ever before.
While experience and qualifications open the door, it is technical capability in real project environments that ultimately secures long term roles and progression. Below, we outline the essential technical skills employers want to see in MEP candidates, based on what we are consistently asked for across the market.
Strong grounding in core engineering principles
This may sound obvious, but it remains the foundation. Employers expect MEP candidates to have a solid understanding of their discipline, whether mechanical, electrical, or public health. That includes knowledge of systems design, load calculations, plant selection, and installation methods.
For mechanical engineers, this often means HVAC systems, energy efficiency, and heat recovery. Electrical professionals are expected to understand power distribution, lighting design, emergency systems, and increasingly low carbon technologies. Public health engineers must demonstrate competence in water services, drainage, and compliance with relevant standards.
Candidates who can clearly explain why a system has been designed a certain way, not just how it works, stand out immediately.
Proficiency with industry software
Modern MEP roles are heavily software driven. Employers expect candidates to be comfortable using the tools that support design, coordination, and delivery.
Building Information Modelling is now standard on most projects. Familiarity with Revit MEP and Navisworks is often essential, particularly for design and coordination roles. Even site based engineers are expected to understand BIM outputs and clash detection reports.
In addition, design software such as AutoCAD, Dialux, Hevacomp, IES, or Amtech is frequently requested depending on the role. Candidates do not need to be experts in every platform, but they must be confident using the tools relevant to their discipline and level.
Understanding of current regulations and standards
Compliance is critical in MEP engineering. Employers want candidates who stay up to date with current UK regulations and industry standards.
This includes Building Regulations, British Standards, and guidance such as CIBSE publications, Wiring Regulations, and water regulations. Knowledge of Part L, fire safety requirements, and sustainability targets is particularly important as energy efficiency and carbon reduction continue to shape project requirements.
Candidates who can demonstrate how they apply regulations in practice, rather than simply listing them on a CV, are far more attractive to employers.
Experience with sustainable and low carbon solutions
Sustainability is no longer a niche area. Employers increasingly expect MEP candidates to understand low carbon technologies and energy efficient design.
This may include experience with heat pumps, renewable energy systems, smart controls, energy modelling, or passive design principles. Even at site level, engineers are expected to understand how sustainable systems should be installed, commissioned, and maintained.
Candidates who show an interest in sustainability and can link their technical skills to wider environmental goals are well positioned in today’s market.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings
Strong drawing interpretation skills remain essential, particularly for site based and delivery focused roles. Employers want MEP candidates who can confidently read drawings, specifications, and schematics, and translate them into practical actions on site.
This includes identifying discrepancies, raising technical queries, and coordinating with other disciplines. Engineers who can spot issues early and communicate them clearly help prevent delays and costly rework.
Commissioning and testing knowledge
Employers value candidates who understand the full lifecycle of MEP systems, not just design or installation. Commissioning, testing, and handover are critical stages that directly affect building performance.
Knowledge of commissioning plans, testing procedures, and documentation such as O&M manuals is highly sought after. Candidates who have been involved in witnessing tests, managing commissioning engineers, or resolving performance issues bring added value to project teams.
Technical problem solving on live projects
Perhaps one of the most important skills employers look for is practical problem solving. Construction projects rarely go exactly to plan. MEP candidates are expected to respond to technical challenges, programme changes, and coordination issues with confidence.
This means assessing options, understanding constraints, and proposing workable solutions that align with design intent, budget, and programme. Employers consistently tell us they want engineers who can think critically under pressure and take ownership of technical outcomes.
Clear technical communication
Technical skill is only effective if it can be communicated. Employers want MEP candidates who can explain complex issues clearly to clients, site teams, and non technical stakeholders.
This includes writing concise technical reports, responding to RFIs, and contributing to design meetings. Engineers who can bridge the gap between design and delivery are particularly valued.
Over the years, our square footage and numbers have grown steadily, but our mission remains the same. We focus on making valuable, long term construction placements based on deep industry knowledge and personal networks.
We take a transparent approach to recruitment to create fulfilling careers and enable long term partnerships, not just fill vacancies. By understanding both the technical demands of roles and the strengths of our candidates, we help align skills with opportunity.
If you are an MEP professional looking to progress your career, or an employer seeking technically strong candidates who can add real value, we would welcome a conversation.
Get in touch with Michael Taylor Search & Selection today to discuss our MEP jobs in the UK or your next career move
