Chimney engineer

How to become a chimney engineer

While there are no formal qualifications needed to become a chimney engineer, there are several routes you could take to help you pursue this role. You could complete a college course, an apprenticeship or apply directly to an employer for work. 

You should explore these routes to becoming a chimney engineer, to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.

College/training provider

Find out what the entry requirements are where you live.

Many chimney engineers start as bricklayers and then specialise in chimney construction.

• Equivalent entry requirements explained
• Find a course near you
• Funding advice

Apprenticeship

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

• Find an apprenticeship near you
• Guide to apprenticeships

Work

You could start work as an engineer’s assistant in a construction company and gain experience and skills in a working environment. You can complete on-the-job training to become a qualified chimney engineer by completing a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Chimney Engineering.

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a chimney engineer. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

• Find out more about work experience

Skills 

Desirable skills and personal qualities for a chimney engineer include:

• Knowledge of current safety guidelines and regulations 
• A good level of physical fitness 
• Confidence to work at height, in all weather
• Practical skills and the ability to use a variety of tools
• Good communication skills.

Qualifications

What does a chimney engineer do?

As a chimney engineer, you will be responsible for designing and installing chimney and flue systems which match client requirements and are in line with the current building legislation. 

Duties of a chimney engineer include: 

• Inspection of existing chimney and flue systems
• Repairing and renewing existing chimney and flue systems
• Preparing and adhering to health and safety risk assessments
• Working within current building regulations
• Wearing personal protective equipment (PPE)
• Using a full body harness and fall systems if working at height
• Working in people’s homes and businesses.

How much could you earn as a chimney engineer?

The expected salary for a chimney engineer varies as you become more experienced.

• Newly trained chimney engineers can earn £17,000 - £20,000
• Trained chimney engineers with experience can earn up to £35,000.*

Hours and salary depend on location, employer and any overtime you may do.

* Salaries have been collected from multiple industry sources

Check out the latest chimney engineer vacancies:  

Career path and progression

As a chimney engineer, you could progress into a managerial position as a site engineer and look after the technical side of construction projects. 

You could also move into a role of contracts manager for your organisation.