Overview
Building services engineering is one of the most in-demand disciplines in the built environment, driven by net zero targets, rising energy costs, and increasingly complex building regulations. MEP consultancies want graduates who can produce design calculations, create MEP drawings, and run energy models. Internship experience makes a significant difference in how quickly you can progress.
This resume belongs to Sophie Nolan, a building services engineering graduate from London South Bank University who interned at Hoare Lea. She worked on HVAC design for four commercial projects totalling 25,000 m2, produced 15 MEP drawings, and ran 6 energy models for Part L and BREEAM assessment. Her part-time role in university facilities gave her additional exposure to building operations.
What Makes This Resume Work
Design and modelling experience on real projects. Sophie does not just list software names. She describes producing HVAC calculations, MEP drawings, and energy models for actual commercial fit-outs. This level of detail tells employers she has been a productive member of a design team, not just an observer.
Energy and sustainability skills align with market demand. IES VE modelling, Part L compliance, and BREEAM assessment are all high-demand skills. Employers working on net zero building design actively seek graduates with this expertise.
Facilities experience provides operational perspective. Having worked in university estates, Sophie understands how buildings are maintained and operated, not just designed. This operational awareness makes her a more thoughtful designer who considers long-term performance.
Key Takeaways
Graduate building services engineers should describe the specific design tasks they completed during internships, including calculation types, drawing counts, and energy models run. Mention the floor area and project type to provide scale context. CIBSE membership, CSCS card, and specific software proficiency (IES VE, AutoCAD MEP, Hevacomp) should all be clearly listed. Any experience with BREEAM, Part L, or sustainability assessment is increasingly valuable and worth highlighting.
