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 building services to residential, commercial, and public sector clients. Our reputation is built on technical excellence, reliable project delivery, and a genuine 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 construction and building services to young people across Thanet and the wider South East region. Our involvement in events such as the Exhibition Fair at Highworth Grammar School in Ashford has demonstrated real impact — 98% of students found the event useful, and 70% said it helped them make an important career decision.

The Opportunity

We are expanding our team across multiple levels — from Trainee Engineers to Senior Project Engineers — at our Ashford office, which serves as a hub for our growing operations across London and the South East. Whether you are just finishing your A Levels and eager to start a career in building services, or you are an experienced project engineer ready to take the next step, Watkins offers a structured career pathway with real responsibility from day one.

Our current team members exemplify this journey. 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 (WEX) arranged via EKBP before being brought on full-time as a Trainee Engineer.

Key Responsibilities

Assist in the design, installation, and maintenance of plumbing, heating, and mechanical building services systems across residential and commercial projects.
Support senior engineers in producing project plans, risk assessments, method statements, and health & safety documentation in line with CDM 2015 regulations.
Carry out site surveys, take measurements, and prepare technical drawings using AutoCAD and Revit MEP software.
Coordinate with clients, subcontractors, and internal teams to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to specification.
Manage material procurement, supplier orders, and stock control for allocated projects, ensuring cost efficiency and timely delivery.
Conduct commissioning and testing of plumbing and heating systems, ensuring compliance with Building Regulations Parts A, G, H, and L.
Maintain accurate project records including as-built drawings, operation and maintenance manuals, and handover documentation.
Mentor and support trainee engineers and work experience students, contributing to Watkins' talent development programme in partnership with EKBP.
Participate in CPD training, including obtaining relevant qualifications such as HND in Building Services Engineering, CSCS card, and F-Gas certification where applicable.
Uphold and promote Watkins' commitment to social value by engaging with local schools, colleges, and community initiatives across the South East.

What We Are Looking For

For Trainee / Junior positions:

A Levels or equivalent qualification (BTEC Level 3 in Construction and the Built Environment preferred).
Strong interest in building services, plumbing, or mechanical engineering.
Willingness to pursue a HND in Building Services Engineering (funded by Watkins).
Good numeracy and literacy skills.
Full UK driving licence (or willingness to obtain one).
Enthusiastic, punctual, and eager to learn in a hands-on environment.

For Project Engineer / Senior Project Engineer positions:

HND or degree in Building Services Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
Minimum 3–5 years of experience in plumbing, heating, or mechanical services within the construction industry.
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit MEP, or similar design software.
Working knowledge of Building Regulations, BS EN standards, and industry codes of practice.
Experience with project management tools such as Microsoft Project, Procore, or similar platforms.
Strong communication and client-facing skills.
CSCS card and relevant site safety qualifications (e.g., SSSTS or SMSTS).

Work Environment & Culture

At Watkins, we believe that great engineers are developed, not just hired. Our Ashford office provides a collaborative and supportive environment where every team member has a clear progression pathway. You will work alongside experienced engineers who are genuinely invested in your development. We operate a structured training programme that combines on-site experience with academic study, ensuring you gain both practical skills and formal qualifications.

We are committed to social value and community engagement. As part of the team, you will have opportunities to represent Watkins at careers fairs, school events, and work experience programmes — helping to inspire the next generation while developing your own leadership and communication skills.

Benefits & Compensation

Competitive salary commensurate with experience and role level.
Fully funded HND in Building Services Engineering for trainee engineers.
Company vehicle or travel allowance for site-based roles.
25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
Pension scheme with employer contributions.
Support for professional development and further qualifications.
Structured career progression from Trainee to Senior and Lead Engineer.
Opportunity to be part of a growing company with a strong social value mission.

Career Growth

Watkins offers a transparent and well-defined career pathway. Trainee engineers follow a programme that combines practical on-site training with academic study, progressing through Project Engineer to Senior Project Engineer and ultimately to Lead Engineer or Project Management roles. We regularly review performance and provide clear milestones for promotion, ensuring that ambition is recognised and rewarded.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about building services engineering and want to join a company that invests in your future, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience and interest in the role. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an initial telephone interview, followed by a face-to-face or video interview with our engineering leadership team. For trainee positions, we welcome applications from school and college leavers — no prior industry experience is required, just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn.

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