Thermal Insulation Engineer
The Work
Thermal insulation engineers specialise in insulating hot pipes, vessels and boilers to keep heat in, or in the case of refrigeration and air-conditioning installations, to keep heat out.
They work on large-scale industrial projects in petro-chemical works, power stations, factories, oil refineries, hospitals, office blocks or on board ships.
Thermal insulation engineers measure, cut and shape insulating materials to fit around the pipes, vessels or boilers and duct work, often working in very confined or difficult to access areas. They are also responsible for protecting the finished job by covering the insulation in sheet metal or other material cladding.
Hours and Conditions
Thermal insulation engineers usually work a 38 hour week, Monday to Friday. They may be required to work overtime on a particular project, including evenings and weekends.
Working conditions can sometimes be uncomfortable. They may work in spaces that are very confined or difficult to access, are high up or in a dirty, dusty or hot environment. On some sites, they may need to wear protective clothing.
Thermal insulation engineers are likely to travel quite extensively between different work sites and projects.
Skills and Interests
To be a thermal insulation engineer, you should:
Training
As a trainee, you will also study for NVQ / SVQ Level 2 in Thermal Insulation Engineering. This will involve on-site training and assessment through an employer. This is also combined with a minimum of 20 weeks at one of the IETA's approved training centres based in Darlington and Glasgow.
Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships (MAPPs) may be available for people aged 16-24. For details see:
MAPPs
(England)
Skillseekers
(Scotland)
National
Traineeships MAPPs (Wales) and
MAPPs
(Northern Ireland)
Opportunities
Opportunities for thermal insulation engineers are increasing and likely to continue doing so in the foreseeable future, as their job is a vital part of energy conservation.
There are opportunities for employment both throughout this country and many other countries throughout the world. There are prospects for promotion to supervisory or management roles.
Salary
The figures below are intended as a guideline only.
It is common for people to work on short-term contracts with the possibility of extra payments for early completion.
Thermal insulation engineers usually start at around £11,000 per year.
More experienced thermal insulation engineers can earn around £13,000+ per year.
Senior thermal insulation engineers earn from £15,000+ per year.
Further Information
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Insulation & Environmental Training Agency
Tel: 01325 466704
www.tica-acad.co.uk
