About Watkins Plumbing & Heating Services

Watkins is a well-established plumbing and heating services company operating across London and the South East of England. With a growing presence in Ashford, Kent, we deliver high-quality mechanical building services to commercial and residential projects throughout the region. Our team takes pride in technical excellence, reliability, and a commitment to developing the next generation of engineering talent.

We are proud to be one of four key Social Value partners of EAST KENT EDUCATION BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP LTD (EKBP) for 2026. Through this partnership, we actively promote careers in the construction and building services industry to young people across Thanet and the wider South East. Our involvement includes attending careers exhibition fairs — such as the recent event at Highworth Grammar School in Ashford, where 98% of students found the experience useful and 70% said it helped them make an important career decision — as well as hosting work experience placements that have directly led to full-time employment within our company.

The Opportunity

We are expanding our Ashford-based team and are seeking Plumbing and Building Services Engineers at multiple levels — from junior trainees through to senior and lead engineers. Whether you have just completed your A Levels and are eager to pursue a career in building services, or you are an experienced project engineer looking for your next leadership challenge, Watkins offers a structured career path with genuine development opportunities.

Our current team members exemplify the career progression available. Sam Taylor joined Watkins as a Trainee Project Engineer after completing his A Levels, studied for a HND in Building Services Engineering through the University of Greenwich, progressed to Project Engineer, and was promoted to Senior Project Engineer in 2025. Similarly, Oliver Hadler first joined us through a work experience placement before being brought on full-time as a Trainee Engineer. These stories reflect our genuine commitment to nurturing talent from the ground up.

Key Responsibilities

Install, maintain, and service domestic and commercial plumbing and heating systems in accordance with current Building Regulations (Part G, Part L, and Part P) and British Standards (BS 6700, BS 8558)
Coordinate and supervise plumbing and mechanical services installations on-site, ensuring work is delivered to specification, on time, and within budget
Read and interpret technical drawings, specifications, and building information modelling (BIM) files to plan installation sequences and material requirements
Conduct site surveys and prepare detailed cost estimates, material schedules, and quotations for new projects
Liaise with clients, main contractors, architects, and other trades to ensure seamless coordination of building services across multi-disciplinary projects
Mentor and supervise trainee engineers and work experience students, providing on-the-job training and supporting their academic development through HND or degree apprenticeship programmes
Ensure full compliance with health and safety regulations, including CDM 2015, risk assessments, and method statements on every project
Manage project documentation including snagging lists, as-built drawings, operation and maintenance manuals, and handover packs
Support the senior management team in developing client relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and maintaining a strong pipeline of work across London and the South East
Utilise project management tools and software such as Microsoft Project, AutoCAD, Revit MEP, and Bluebeam Revu to plan, track, and document project delivery

What We Are Looking For

Junior / Trainee Level:

Recently completed A Levels (or equivalent) with an interest in building services, plumbing, or mechanical engineering
Enrolment in or willingness to pursue a HND or degree in Building Services Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline
Basic understanding of plumbing systems, heating principles, and construction methods
Strong numeracy and literacy skills with the ability to follow technical drawings and specifications
Enthusiasm to learn, a proactive attitude, and a genuine passion for the construction industry
Full UK driving licence (desirable but not essential at trainee level)

Senior / Lead Level:

Minimum of 5–8 years of experience in commercial or residential plumbing and building services engineering
Relevant qualifications such as NVQ Level 3 in Plumbing, City & Guilds 6035, or a degree in Building Services / Mechanical Engineering
Proven track record of managing multiple projects simultaneously from design through to completion and handover
Strong commercial awareness with experience in estimating, procurement, and project budget management
Excellent leadership and communication skills with the ability to manage subcontractors, clients, and internal teams
Familiarity with building regulations, water regulations (Water Supply Regulations 1999), and energy efficiency standards
Competent in the use of AutoCAD, Revit MEP, or similar design software, as well as project management platforms
CSCS card and/or relevant site safety certification (e.g., CITB Site Managers' Safety Training Scheme – SMSTS)

Work Environment & Culture

Watkins operates from our Ashford office with projects spanning London, Kent, and the wider South East. Our team is close-knit, collaborative, and deeply committed to delivering exceptional work. We believe that investing in people is the foundation of our success, which is why we actively support professional development, further education, and clear career progression pathways.

As part of our Social Value commitment through EKBP, you will have the opportunity to contribute to careers events, mentor young people considering construction careers, and play a meaningful role in shaping the future workforce of our industry. We foster a culture where initiative is rewarded, ideas are welcomed, and every team member has the support they need to grow.

Benefits & Compensation

Competitive salary commensurate with experience and seniority level
Support towards professional qualifications, HND, or degree apprenticeship fees
Company vehicle or travel allowance for site-based roles
Pension scheme contributions in line with auto-enrolment regulations
28 days annual leave (inclusive of bank holidays), increasing with length of service
Ongoing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities and industry training
Opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects across London and the South East
Clear progression pathway from trainee through to senior and leadership positions

Career Growth

At Watkins, career progression is not just a promise — it is a demonstrated reality within our team. Our Senior Project Engineers began as trainees, and we are committed to ensuring that every new joiner has access to the same opportunities. Whether your ambition is to become a Chartered Engineer through the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE), a project director, or a technical specialist, we will support you every step of the way.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about building services engineering and want to be part of a company that genuinely invests in its people, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience, current level of qualification, and the role you are applying for. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for an initial telephone screening followed by a face-to-face or video interview with our operations team. We aim to communicate outcomes to all applicants within two weeks of each stage.

Watkins is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, or background.