Both qualifications offer progression from the skilled trades into office- or site-based technical/supervisory/managerial positions.
Typical candidate job roles include project/contract manager, supervisor, estimator, sales engineer, site/workshop manager and design engineering.
The Level 4 NVQ includes a knowledge-based unit in electro-technical technology or mechanical-engineering-services technology. It is suitable for those seeking recognition of their competence in preparing estimates and tenders; managing contract procedures; preparing and agreeing detailed designs; planning project methods, systems and resources; controlling income and expenditure on projects.
The Level 3 NVQ is open to candidates from any building-services-engineering discipline. It is suitable for those seeking recognition of their competence in providing technical and functional information; monitoring and helping with implementing projects; applying design principles; contributing to estimating, tendering and project planning; monitoring commissioning and testing procedures.
Keith Marshall, chief executive of SummitSkills, says, ‘These qualifications will allow individuals in the sector to gain recognition for their supervisory and technical skills at an advanced level. They will also provide a framework for continuous professional development and are a great opportunity for the sector to raise its skills levels.’
