Guide to Becoming an MEP Engineer

The increasing demand for commercial and residential properties across California is a significant reason contributing to the state’s booming construction industry. In April 2022, both single-family and multi-family residential constructions increased by 23 percent and 22 percent, respectively. 

Moreover, commercial construction projects are also following the same trajectory, with significant firms investing in California to develop tech companies, offices, and startups. To ensure all these structures adhere to the increasing demands of the users, major construction companies and project managers are actively hiring mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers. 

MEP engineers are responsible for making all the building structures more habitable and functional for users. Their work involves rigorous planning, managing, and designing various MEP systems, including heat, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), exhaust, and chilled water systems etc. If you’re interested in exploring this field and want to know how to become an MEP engineer, here’s all you need to know. 

Starting your career as an MEP engineer

In the United States, the market for MEP services is expected to grow by 16 percent by 2025, meaning the opportunities across different job titles within this field are also likely to grow. To kickstart your career as an MEP engineer, you need to set yourself apart from others by acquiring in-depth knowledge and must-have skills, including analytical, technical, and concentration, to perform your job duties. 

Some of the disciplines, designs, and assessment consulting services you need to be proficient in as an MEP engineer include:

• Mechanical engineers—exhaust system design, building control system, air distribution, and renewable energy system analysis and design, etc.
• Electrical engineers—power distribution, lighting, fault current analysis, security systems, and power quality assessments, etc.
• Plumbing engineers—natural gas piping, storm drainage systems, domestic hot and cold water fittings, and water softening systems, etc. 

MEP engineering qualifications

Typically, to start working in MEP engineering firms, you need to earn a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electronic, or other related engineering fields. You can further opt to offer a specialization by pursuing a master’s or associate’s degree to acquire specific mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering skills. 

With relevant education, you can further become an Engineer-In-Training, which helps you gain a Professional Engineering license. To stand out among other aspirants, try to attend Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredited programs, as it enhances your credibility as an MEP engineer.

Engineering is a competitive field, which means gaining an education isn’t always enough to stand out among other job candidates or aspiring engineers. This means you must opt for additional credentials and certifications to enhance your skills and knowledge. Some of the popular licenses for MEP engineers include:

• Certified Plumbing Designer (CPD) by the American Society of Plumbing Engineers
• Professional Engineering (PE)License
• Professional Managers Professional (PMP)
• Certified Energy Manager (CEM)
• Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP)

What to include in your MEP engineer resume

Your resume and cover letter showcase your understanding of the field and skills that help you perform your job responsibilities better than other candidates. Building a resume that fits industry standards and helps you stand out among other candidates is significant. Below are a few tips to keep in mind while creating your professional resume.

• Always use the latest format and style when creating a resume to match industry standards.
• Begin by mentioning the most recent work experience/internship/education.
• Use quantifiable metrics in your resume because numbers help evaluate the proficiency, knowledge, and work competencies of a candidate.
• Add keywords from the job description while writing your career objective or defining your previous job responsibilities/experience, as this helps you match search results with the applicant tracking system (ATS). 
• Use a resume-building tool or take help from a skilled resume writer or recruiting manager by signing up with an engineer staffing agency like Certis Solutions. 

Certis Solutions shares a strong partnership with some of the top MEP engineering firms to provide clients exclusive access to work on the biggest construction projects across California and all over the country. Visit our website or contact us today to browse our wide range of employment services.