If you’re considering a career in gas, this article will take you through the different entry routes, portfolio completion and progression opportunities for domestic gas engineers. 

From your initial training and gas portfolio completion to the potential career paths you could explore further down the line, we’ve highlighted the key things to know before you start your gas journey.

Given the potentially hazardous nature of unsafe gas work, having a clear understanding of the necessary training and accreditations right from the outset is essential to getting your career in gas off to the best possible start. 

Initial training

There are three typical routes to a career in gas and becoming qualified.

  • Apprenticeships remain an attractive pathway, particularly amongst school leavers as they offer the opportunity to earn while you learn. 
  • College courses offer more flexibility, however, generally come with academic entry requirements.
  • Finally, accredited courses with private training providers are a great option for those looking to build a career in gas. While these do involve upfront costs, this route is significantly more efficient in reaching the level needed to obtain formal qualifications and begin seeking employment as a domestic gas engineer. 

Portfolio completion 

The period spent completing your gas portfolio will form one of the most important parts of your training. This is a chance to put all you have learned in the classroom and workshop into action in real on-the-job environments while under the supervision of a qualified engineer. 

Once your initial training is complete, trainee gas engineers must log 150 hours of supervised gas work. For your portfolio to be deemed complete, you’ll need to provide evidence of safely and competently completing a range of typical gas tasks — this includes everything from servicing boilers and vent checks to tightness testing and combustion analysis. 

ACS assessment

After you’ve finished your training and portfolio, you’ll need to complete an Accredited Certification Scheme (ACS) assessment. Different ACS assessments are available depending on whether you plan to work in a domestic or commercial setting. 

Gas Safe registration

Before being legally certified to carry out any kind of gas work, you’ll need to join the Gas Safe Register. 

To be eligible for Gas Safe registration, you’ll need evidence of formal training with an accredited provider, a completed portfolio of work and a successful ACS assessment. 

Gas Safe registration lasts one year, meaning you’ll need to renew your membership every twelve months. 

Potential career paths for gas engineers

The skill sets of gas engineers continue to be in demand across the construction industry, both in terms of traditional gas supplies and as underpinning knowledge in forward-thinking green alternatives. 

A common progression path is for engineers who began working in domestic gas to complete advanced training and move into more complex, commercial gas.

Other opportunities for experienced gas engineers could include moving into senior management roles, becoming a commissioning manager for large-scale projects or setting up your own gas business.  For those wanting to move into sustainable technologies, specialising in green alternatives such as heat pumps is another option.

Whatever your goals, Able Skills offers a range of expert-led gas courses to suit all levels of ability and experience. You can find more information about all of our gas courses here.