Estates Mechanical Engineer

Solent University; Fareham; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25–30 days annual leave

University-wide Christmas closure

Wellbeing and professional development

Job summary

Solent University seeks an experienced Estates Mechanical Engineer to lead and develop the mechanical engineering team, ensuring safe and high-quality mechanical services across the university estate. You will oversee BEMS operations, guide maintenance, and drive improvements in heating, cooling, and water systems within a forward-thinking university environment.

You will join the Technical Services leadership, coordinating with stakeholders and external partners to deliver projects and optimise

Qualifications

• Experience leading mechanical engineering teams within an estates environment.
• Proven ability to deliver planned and reactive maintenance safely.
• Knowledge of mechanical services including HVAC and domestic water systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead, support, and develop the mechanical engineering team to drive performance.
• Contribute to Technical Services SLT and support strategic decisions.
• Manage workload, leave, and performance reviews for direct reports.
• Coordinate works with stakeholders, contractors and external agencies.
• Regulate and optimise heating, cooling, and mechanical services.
• Own and optimise the Building Energy Management System (BEMS).
• Provide expert guidance on BEMS functionality with the Estates FM Systems Manager.
• Troubleshoot issues identified via BEMS fault and performance reports.

Skills

Leadership

People management

Stakeholder management

BEMS expertise

Tools

BEMS (Building Energy Management System)

Job description

Solent University is seeking an experienced Estates Mechanical Engineer to take on a key leadership role within our Estates team. This pivotal position focuses on managing, developing, and guiding our mechanical services staff to ensure the delivery of a safe, efficient, and high quality service across our diverse estate. You will oversee the University's mechanical building services and Building Energy Management System (BEMS), leading your team in the delivery of planned maintenance, reactive works, remedial projects, and refurbishment activities. Ensuring full compliance with statutory requirements, regulations, and industry best practice will be central to your role. Alongside your leadership responsibilities, you will provide technical expertise and minor design input across a range of mechanical disciplines, including domestic water systems, heating systems, and HVAC systems. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on leading people, enhancing service delivery, and shaping the performance of a skilled mechanical team within a forward thinking university environment. Your work will directly contribute to creating a safe, efficient, and comfortable environment for students, staff, and visitors.

• Lead, support, and develop the mechanical engineering team, ensuring strong performance and professional growth
• Contribute actively to the Technical Services Senior Leadership Team (SLT), supporting strategic decision making
• Manage workflow, priorities, and performance for direct reports, including leave, absences, and Progress and Development reviews (PDRs)
• Liaise with university stakeholders, contractors, and external agencies to coordinate works and maintain service excellence
• Provide effective control and regulation of heating, cooling, and associated mechanical services
• Take ownership of the BEMS, including operational decisions and system optimisation
• Work closely with the Estates FM Systems Manager to provide expert guidance on BEMS functionality
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues identified through BEMS fault and performance reporting systems

This is a full time role, working 37 hours per week, Monday to Friday. You will be based at our Southampton campus, with occasional travel to satellite sites as required. We offer 25 to 30 days of annual leave, plus a University wide closure over the Christmas period, along with additional wellbeing and professional development days. Solent University offers an excellent benefits package. More Information on our website. We are Confident. We are Progressive. We are Inclusive. We Are Solent. Closing date: 15 November 2026.