The time it takes to become a gas engineer depends on your chosen training route. Apprenticeships take 18 months to 4 years, while training courses can be completed in as little as 8 weeks, plus portfolio building. College courses last 1 to 2 years, and Managed Learning Programmes vary based on experience. All routes require ACS gas training, a portfolio of on-site work, and Gas Safe registration to legally work.

Ways to Becoming a Gas Engineer

Several routes lead to a career as a gas engineer, each with its own timeline and requirements:

1. Apprenticeships

Duration: Typically 18 months to 4 years.

Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Trainees work under the supervision of experienced gas engineers while attending college courses. This pathway is ideal for individuals seeking hands-on experience from the outset.

Pros:

  • Earn while you learn.
  • Gain practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge.
  • Direct mentorship from seasoned professionals.

Cons:

  • Longer duration compared to intensive courses.
  • Competitive entry requirements.

Learn about Logic4training’s Gas Apprenticeship.

 

2. Training Courses

Duration: As short as 8 weeks + building a portfolio.

Private training providers offer intensive courses designed to equip candidates with the necessary skills in a condensed timeframe. These programmes often include both theoretical lessons and practical workshops.

Pros:

  • Faster entry into the profession.
  • Structured learning environment.
  • Suitable for career changers or those seeking quicker certification.

Cons:

  • An intensive schedule may be demanding.
  • Typically requires upfront payment.

Learn about Logic4training’s Gas Courses.

 

3. Managed Learning Programs

Duration: Varies based on individual circumstances.

Private training providers offer experienced professionals in related fields, such as plumbing or kitchen fitters, can have their skills assessed to complete a shorter gas training course. This route acknowledges prior learning and experience.

Pros:

  • Utilises existing skills.
  • Potentially shorter pathway.
  • Acknowledges professional experience.

Cons:

  • Requires comprehensive assessment.
  • May need additional training to fill knowledge gaps.

Learn about Logic4training’s Managed Learning Programmes.

 

4. College Courses

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 years.

Colleges provide diplomas in plumbing and heating, which can serve as a foundation for a gas engineering career. These courses blend classroom learning with practical experience.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive curriculum.
  • Access to college resources and facilities.
  • Opportunities for further specialization.

Cons:

  • Longer duration.
  • May require additional qualifications post-completion.

 


Comparison of Training Routes

To assist in decision-making, here’s a comparison of the various pathways:

Pathway Duration Key Features Ideal For
Apprenticeship 18 months to 4 years Combines work experience with study; earn a wage during training. School leavers seeking practical experience.
Intensive Training Course As short as 25 weeks Accelerated learning; focuses on rapid skill acquisition. Career changers desiring a quicker entry.
Managed Learning Programs Varies Assesses existing skills; may shorten training duration. Experienced tradespeople transitioning to gas engineering.
College Course 1 to 2 years In-depth theoretical and practical education; may require further qualifications. Individuals seeking comprehensive education.

Regardless of the chosen route, certain qualifications are mandatory, in order to legally work on gas appliances, gas engineers needs to:

  • Undertake Accredited Certification Scheme (ACS) gas training and pass the assessments.
  • Demonstrate an appropriate level of practical work by completing and on-site portfolio of gas work, supervised by a qualified engineer or mentor.
  • Obtain a CCN1 qualification in core gas safety
  • Register with Gas Safe

Factors Influencing Training Duration

Several elements can affect how long it takes to become a gas engineer:

  • Prior Experience: Individuals with a background in related trades may progress faster.
  • Training Method: Full-time courses lead to quicker completion compared to part-time study. Additionally, in-centre, practical training always provides learners with skills that online training can’t. Be careful of online gas courses.
  • Learning Pace: Personal aptitude and commitment can accelerate or prolong training.

What if I have no experience of working with gas, so what training do I need?

Originally aimed at young learners (16+) but now available to a wider age range, gas apprenticeships are a good option, with a focus on practical learning and the potential to earn whilst you learn. There are three levels of apprenticeship available, which typically take between one and four years:

  • Intermediate level apprenticeship (Level 2) – equivalent to 5 A* GCSEs
  • Advanced level apprenticeship (Level 3) – equivalent to 2 A Levels
  • Higher level apprenticeship (Level 4 and above) – equivalent to a foundation degree or higher

Apprenticeships are often run by the gas companies, but the Government has recently invested in a scheme to encourage smaller businesses and sole traders to take on apprentices, offering them cash incentives to help cover the cost of recruiting and help pay apprentice salaries.


What if I don’t have years to spend on a gas training course?

If you’re looking for a speedier result, training centres and colleges offer fast track options, where you can complete your ACS training in a matter of weeks.

In 2017, IGEM (Institution of Gas Engineers & Managers) re-wrote the standards for gas training to ensure that methods and results were consistent and high standards could be maintained in the training of Gas Safe engineers.

These revisions saw the introduction of a Managed Learning Programme (MLP), designed specifically for new entrants. At Logic4training, we give learners on our MLP the very best start, offering managed learning to help them gain the skills and confidence they need. In a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience working on rigs in our workshop, learners gain skills on a variety of gas appliances and heating systems.

We fully support them in working towards the ACS initial assessment and then help find a mentor to fulfill the portfolio element of the qualification, where learners work alongside a professional in real-life situations.

Candidates need to achieve the CCN1 gas safety qualification plus four appliances before they are able to join the Gas Safe Register; the final step before they can identify themselves a Gas Engineer and legally find work in the sector. Click here for information on how to apply for Gas Safe registration.


And what if I already work in the trades and want to add a gas qualification?

If you’re already working as a plumber or a kitchen fitter, for instance, and want to extend your range so that you can work with gas, we offer a shorter, targeted MLP – Domestic Gas Heating Installer – Experienced Trades package.

This 20-day course is for learners with at least two years’ experience in a related trade, looking to gain the necessary qualifications in order to join Gas Safe Register and work on gas appliances. You can find out more information here.

To help qualified domestic heating engineers to develop their careers, we offer upskilling qualifications to move into the commercial sector, or work with LPG, for example, as well as some useful 1 day CPD courses in areas such as Gas Safety Awareness and Gas Auditing.

To see the whole range we offer, please click here or get in touch with us.  If you want to work with gas, we’ll help you work out how to get there!


Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is prior experience in plumbing necessary to become a gas engineer?

Answer: No, while prior experience can be beneficial, many training routes are designed for individuals without a plumbing background.

Q2: What is the cost of gas engineer training courses?

Answer: Costs of courses can vary based on the provider and course type. We advise you to research and compare options to find a course that fits your budget. If you want to speak to one of our team members, they’d happily go through all the options available to you.

Q3: Are there age restrictions for entering gas engineer training?

Answer: The short answer is that it depends. Most apprenticeships are open to individuals over 16, and some require you to be 19 or older. With training courses, you generally need to be 19 or older but this will vary at each training provider.

Q4: How often must a Gas Safe registration and qualifications be renewed?

Answer: A Gas Safe registration must be renewed every 12 months. Qualifications vary as your CCN1, CENWAT and Unvented (hot water system and safety) need to be renewed every 5 years, and others like Energy Efficiency or the Water Regulations qualifications are evergreen, meaning they are indefinitely valid.

If you have any questions about how long it takes to become a gas engineer, contact us today and have a chat with our team.

Back to Insights

We are proud to be accredited by

Phone icon
Get in touch
School icon
Find an apprenticeship
Phone icon
Get in touch
School icon
Find an apprenticeship