The Learning and Development Manager plays a crucial role that ensures employees are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the evolving demands of modern building services engineering.
The L&D Manager combines technical expertise in Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire protection (MEPF) systems with strong learning and development capabilities. This role is critical for enhancing the technical skills, competencies, and career progression of MEP engineers, technicians, and other staffs including support work (admin, procurement, inventory etc) while ensuring they stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards, technologies, and regulations.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Development of MEP-Specific Training Programs:
- Leverage engineering expertise to design and implement technical training programs tailored to MEP engineers and technicians, covering key systems such as HVAC, electrical systems (and sub systems), plumbing, and fire protection.
- Create advanced training curricula that include the latest technologies (e.g., smart building systems, renewable energy, building information modeling (BIM), and sustainability practices).
- Ensure training programs address both theoretical and practical aspects of MEP engineering, including hands-on workshops and simulations.
- Skills Gap Analysis and Technical Competency Development:
- Conduct detailed assessments of current skill levels across MEP engineering teams to identify gaps in technical knowledge and proficiency.
- Work with project managers, engineering leads, and HR to develop competency frameworks aligned with the company’s needs and future projects.
- Implement technical upskilling initiatives that address emerging industry trends, such as energy efficiency, automation, and sustainable building practices.
- Onboarding and Technical Training for New Engineers:
- Oversee the technical onboarding process for new MEP engineers and technicians, ensuring they are trained on company-specific engineering processes, tools, and standards.
- Provide in-depth training on engineering software such as AutoCAD MEP, Revit MEP, and other modeling and simulation tools used within the company.
- Facilitate the transfer of technical knowledge from experienced engineers to new recruits through structured mentorship programs.
- Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and Certification Management:
- Ensure all MEP engineering staff meet the necessary professional certifications (e.g., LEED, BREEAM, ASHRAE, CIBSE) and stay up-to-date with ongoing certification requirements.
- Manage relationships with professional bodies and external training providers to offer specialized courses that align with company goals and industry demands.
- Create pathways for engineers to pursue advanced certifications and leadership roles within the organization.
- Mentorship and Coaching for Career Development:
- Establish and oversee mentoring programs where senior MEP engineers coach and guide junior engineers in both technical and leadership skills.
- Design and implement personal development plans (PDPs) for MEP staff, focusing on career growth and technical mastery in areas such as system design, project management, and sustainability.
- Integration of Emerging Technologies in MEP Training:
- Lead training initiatives focused on cutting-edge technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled MEP systems, energy management software, and smart building automation.
- Develop workshops and learning modules on topics like renewable energy integration (solar, wind, geothermal) and advanced HVAC solutions to keep the company at the forefront of innovation.
- Incorporate digital tools like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) into training programs for simulating MEP system designs and troubleshooting.
- Compliance and Safety Training:
- Ensure compliance with local, national, and international building codes, safety regulations, and industry standards by providing up-to-date training on relevant codes (e.g., NFPA, ASHRAE).
- Conduct safety training focused on MEP-related risks, such as electrical safety, HVAC system maintenance, plumbing hazards, and fire safety in building services engineering.
- Work with the Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) department to integrate safety protocols into all technical training initiatives.
- Learning Management System (LMS) Oversight:
- Manage and maintain the Learning Management System (LMS) for tracking staff training progress, certification status, and overall development.
- Use LMS data to evaluate training effectiveness and make continuous improvements based on employee performance and feedback.
- Ensure that all technical training content is up-to-date and accessible through the LMS for both in-person and remote learning.
- Cross-Departmental Collaboration and Leadership Development:
- Collaborate with the HR department, project teams, heads of department and senior leadership to align learning and development strategies with the company’s overall goals.
- Support leadership development by designing training programs that focus on engineering project management, team leadership, and client communication for senior engineers aspiring to management roles.
- Training Budget Management:
- Develop and manage the budget for technical learning and development programs, ensuring efficient use of resources without compromising the quality of training.
- Negotiate with external training providers and institutions to deliver high-quality training within budget constraints
REQUIREMENTS
- Educational Background:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Building Services Engineering, or a related field.
- Additional qualifications in Learning and Development, Training, or Organizational Development (e.g., CIPD, ATD) are advantageous.
- Technical Expertise:
- Strong understanding of MEP systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and fire protection) and their integration into building services projects.
- Proficiency in industry-standard design and simulation software, such as AutoCAD MEP, Revit MEP, HAP, TRACE, and EnergyPlus.
- Knowledge of sustainability practices and energy efficiency standards (e.g., LEED, BREEAM, ASHRAE).
- Experience:
- 7+ years of experience in MEP engineering, with at least 3-5 years in a Learning and Development or leadership role.
- Proven track record of developing and delivering technical training programs for engineers and technical staff.
- Experience managing mentorship programs, technical certifications, and professional development initiatives for engineers.
- Analytical Skills:
- Strong analytical abilities to assess training needs, evaluate program effectiveness, and track progress through data and feedback.