FACTSHEET F21

Competence Criteria
for Fellow (FCIBSE)

The competence criteria for the Fellow grade of CIBSE

(FCIBSE) are directly aligned to the Competence Statements
issued by the Engineering Council, as part of UK-SPEC,
for Chartered Engineer (CEng) registration.

Fellowship is the most senior grade of CIBSE membership

and as such you will have reached a position in which
you carry full responsibility for decisions on the design,
management and financial implications of engineering projects.
In addition to proven expertise in one or more specialist
sectors, candidates for Fellow must show an understanding
of the broad field of building services engineering.

You will need to satisfy the 17 objectives in the competence

criteria when applying for FCIBSE or FCIBSE CEng. Consider
how you may use your experience, knowledge and skills to
assist in the development and promotion of your Institution.

The examples given are intended to help you identify activities

you might quote to demonstrate the required competence
and commitment for Fellow. These are not exhaustive and
you are not required to give multiple examples to demonstrate
competence and commitment.

Use this competence criteria framework and Fellow Application

Guidance (Factsheet F20/F20a) for reference when putting
together your Application and Engineering Practice Report.
Tell us about your career, education and training; explaining
how this has made you more competent.

For further information and guidance please visit

www.cibse.org/fellow

072015

1 Factsheet F21
A. Use a combination of general and specialist engineering knowledge and
understanding to optimise the application of existing and emerging technology.
No Objective Range Evidence Examples

A1 Maintain and extend a sound Engage in formal Identify, through project or operational involvement and
theoretical approach in enabling post-graduate your questioning mind, new areas for development and
the introduction and exploitation academic study. research.
of new and advancing Learn and develop Read technical journals via paper or electronic media.
technology. new engineering
theories and Engage in wider reading of general engineering,
This could include an ability to: techniques in the research and building design and operation publications.
Identify the limits of own workplace. Broaden Use and evaluate innovative solutions / new technology
personal knowledge and skills your knowledge of with particular reference to more sustainable solutions
Strive to extend own engineering codes, and reducing carbon emissions.
technological capability standards and
Demonstrate how you have introduced a new process or
Broaden and deepen own specifications.
technique to improve operational practices.
knowledge base through
research and experimentation.

A2 Engage in the creative and Lead/manage Be responsible for multi-disciplinary teams, including new
innovative development of market research, build, renewal or retrofit installations.
engineering technology and and product and
Coordinate with other professionals including clients.
continuous improvement systems. process research
and development. Evaluate proposals and plan specific tasks to fully exploit
This could include an ability to: Cross-disciplinary the opportunities presented by contemporary schemes
Assess market needs and working involving and solutions.
contribute to marketing complex projects.
Read publications of other relevant professional
strategies
Conduct statistically institutions.
Identify constraints and
sound appraisal
exploit opportunities for the Make comparisons of your endeavours with those of your
of data. Use
development and transfer of contemporaries.
evidence from best
technology within own chosen
practice to improve Implement innovative technologies, materials, products
field
effectiveness. or processes paying regard to more sustainable solutions
Promote new applications when
and reducing carbon emissions.
appropriate
Secure the necessary Devise and promote different ways of conducting post
intellectual property (IP) rights project reviews to establish whether objectives were
Develop and evaluate achieved and lessons learned.
continuous improvement
systems. Be involved in, and influence the design, development,
operation and running of all types of project at
progressively increasing levels of responsibility.
Take account of, and understand, the commercial value
and whole life cost of your and others innovative work
and ideas.

2 Factsheet F21
B. Apply appropriate theoretical and practical methods to the analysis
and solution of engineering problems.
No Objective Range Evidence Examples

B1 Identify potential projects and Involvement in Develop and apply organisational objectives, and
opportunities. the marketing of business plans identifying engineering opportunities.
This could include an ability to: and tendering for Identify and promote future work opportunities.
Establish and help develop new engineering
solutions to meet users products, processes Participate in activities, discussions, peer group reviews
requirements and systems. to enhance knowledge and understanding.
Consider and implement new Involvement in the Be responsible for and participate in proposals and
and emerging technologies specification and presentations.
Enhancing engineering procurement of
Contribute to technology transfers, investigative thinking
products, processes, systems new engineering
and critical evolution.
and services products, processes
Use own knowledge of the and systems. Have marketing and business development
employers position to assess Set targets, and responsibility.
the viability of opportunities. draft programmes
and action plans.
Schedule activities.

B2 Conduct appropriate research, Carry out formal Take part as director, team leader or expert individual
and undertake design and theoretical in early stakeholder contact, such as meetings,
development of engineering research. Evaluating presentations, initial proposals or analysis.
solutions. numerical and Select, use and evaluate software packages, including
This could include an ability to: analytical tools. off-the-shelf and customised.
Identify and agree appropriate Carry out applied
research methodologies research on the job. Integrate relevant manual and computerised techniques
Allocate and manage resources Lead/manage value to achieve practical and innovative solutions.
Develop the necessary tests engineering and Establish and agree bases for engineering solutions with
Collect, analyse and evaluate whole life costing. an appropriate cost plan, deliverables and programme
the relevant data Lead design teams. for implementation.
Undertake engineering design Draft specifications.
Engage with third parties to obtain specialist input
Prepare, present and agree Develop and test
including product design, testing, models, mock-ups and
design recommendations, with options. Identify
research.
appropriate analysis of risk, and resources and costs
taking account of cost, quality, of options. Produce Prepare reports to include option studies, whole-
safety, reliability, appearance, concept designs, life performance costings, drawings, and other
fitness for purpose, security, and develop documentation to solve problems and meet objectives.
intellectual property (IP) these into detailed Understand client and user requirements and
constraints and opportunities designs. Be aware financial limitations, including Capital and Operational
and environmental impact. of IP constraints and Expenditure.
opportunities.

3 Factsheet F21
 B3 Manage implementation of design Follow the design Work with manufacturers and installers to understand
solutions, and evaluate their process through into and evaluate their contribution to the design process,
effectiveness. product or service including operational aspects.
This could include an ability to: realisation and its Authorise and lead improvements and remedial work to
Ensure that the application evaluation. Prepare optimise the benefits of a post-occupancy review.
of the design results in the and present reports
appropriate practical outcome on the evaluation Read manufacturers literature and test data to establish
Implement design solutions, of the effectiveness understanding of product development, manufacture and
taking account of critical of the designs, application, and identify any limitations that might apply,
constraints, including due including risk, showing due concern for safety and sustainability.
concern for safety and safety and life cycle Undertake a post occupancy assessment.
sustainability considerations.
Consult with peers and stakeholders to seek their views
Determine the criteria for Manage product
of your interpretations.
evaluating the design solutions improvement.
Evaluate the outcome against Interpret Establish benchmarks with similar projects as an
the original specification and analyse evaluation strategy.
Actively learn from feedback performance. Utilise previous experiences and solutions to avoid
on results to improve future Determine critical re-work.
design solutions and build best success factors.
practice. Update budgets, make comparisons and evaluate
differences.
Conduct Value Engineering exercises and take account
of whole life costing.
Evaluate results against original targets and assumptions.
Identify and implement new methods of working and
technological advancements.

C. Provide technical and commercial leadership.

No Objective Range Evidence Examples

C1 Plan for effective project Lead/manage Play a key role in a major project involving other
implementation. project planning professionals and disciplines.
This could include an ability to: activities. Produce Engage in meetings, conduct of negotiations, meeting
Systematically review the and implement deadlines.
factors affecting the project procurement plans.
implementation including Carry out project Conduct risk analysis and be aware of appropriate
safety and sustainability risk assessments. regulations and best practice.
considerations Collaborate with key Develop an implementation programme, for deliverables,
Define a holistic and systematic stakeholders, and identifying and agreeing significant dates.
approach to risk identification, negotiate agreement
Estimate any resource required.
assessment and management to the plans. Plan
Lead on preparing and programmes and Answer queries, respond to changes and requests,
agreeing implementation plans delivery of tasks. advise on cost/benefits ratios, and propose alternative
and method statements Identify resources solutions.
Ensure that the necessary and costs. Embrace current and proposed legislation including
resources are secured and brief Negotiate and agree working towards zero carbon emissions and the
the project team contracts/work implementation of more sustainable solutions.
Negotiate the necessary orders.
contractual arrangements with Prepare and lead on the production of tender/bid and/or
other stakeholders (client, proposal documentation.
subcontractors, suppliers, etc). Agreeing scope of works with the team, other
professionals and disciplines.

4 Factsheet F21
 C2 Plan, budget, organise, direct Take responsibility Prepare deliverables management plan to ensure
and control tasks, people and for and control resources are available in accordance with delivery
resources. project operations. programme and that production standards are consistent
This could include an ability to: Manage the balance across the whole team.
Set up appropriate between quality, Preparation and monitoring of fee proposals and
management systems cost and time. budgets.
Define quality standards, Manage risk register
programme and budget and contingency Management and progress reporting on resources and
within legal and statutory systems. Manage deliverables.
requirements project funding, Undertake tender analysis.
Organise and lead work teams, payments and
Use and compile criteria/checklists to ensure fair
coordinating project activities recovery. Satisfy
judgement between different tenders.
Ensure that variations from legal and statutory
quality standards, programme obligations. Lead/ Observe and report inconsistencies or misleading
and budgets are identified, and manage tasks within presentation of information in tenders received.
that corrective action is taken identified financial, Take decisions on sound evidence, between competing
Gather and evaluate feedback, commercial tenders.
and recommend improvements. and regulatory
constraints. Read and refer to relevant legislation, cases, information
resources such as periodicals, and participate in training
courses and seminars as appropriate.
Lead the preparation of documentation for claims or
disputes.
Evaluate any proposed changes and make
recommendations/issue instructions accordingly.
Answer client queries, respond to changes and requests,
advise on cost/benefits ratios, and propose alternative
solutions.
Embrace current and proposed legislation including
working towards zero carbon emissions and the use of
sustainable materials.

C3 Lead teams and develop staff Carry out/contribute Responsible for leading and managing others.
to meet changing technical and to staff appraisals. Demonstrate preparation/development of scope and
managerial needs. Plan/contribute workflows for individuals in accordance with deliverables
This could include an ability to: to the training and programme.
Agree objectives and and development
work plans with teams and of staff. Gather Prepare job/ person specifications and adverts.
individuals evidence from Select team members, coach, train and develop team
Identify team and individual colleagues of the spirit, resolve disputes.
needs, and plan for their management,
Develop and implement appraisal criteria and processes.
development assessment and
Reinforce team commitment feedback that you Exhibit leadership skills, such as managing a crisis and
to professional standards have provided. taking responsibility for outcomes.
Lead and support team and Carry out/contribute Take responsibility in Quality and Technical Circles.
individual development to disciplinary
Assess team and individual procedures. Read books and articles on quality theory, TQM and
performance, and provide current case studies.
feedback. Analyse the distinctive features of QA in the building
services engineering environment.
Lead damage limitation/ reparation when QA becomes
compromised.
Participate in Investors in People Scheme or similar.

5 Factsheet F21
 C4 Bring about continuous Plan and Establish and participate in company quality schemes.
improvement through quality implement best Demonstrate how quality schemes have been adhered
management. practice methods to and improved.
This could include an ability to: of continuous
Promote quality throughout the improvement, Consult with and make presentations to colleagues
organisation and its customer e.g. ISO 9000, and peer groups of projects undertaken, project
and supplier networks EFQM, balanced development, solutions reached and on specific issues.
Develop and maintain scorecard. Carry Participation in design and peer reviews.
operations to meet quality out quality audits.
Organise or foster the development of quality groups.
standards Monitor, maintain
Direct project evaluation and and improve Evaluate your work and be critical as to its content
propose recommendations for delivery. Identify, and outcome.
improvement. implement and Establish and implement key performance indicators
evaluate changes (KPI).
to meet quality
objectives. Encourage and assist manufacturers, contractors and
other professionals to evaluate their progress, inputs
and outputs at strategic stages.
Engage in a process of continuous evaluation against
pre-set targets, for example the use of resources, cash
flow, drawing and documentation production
or installation progress.

D. Demonstrate effective interpersonal skills.

No Objective Range Evidence Examples

D1 Communicate in English1 with Reports, letters, Identify opportunities or constraints inherent in different
others at all levels. emails, drawings, settings.
This could include an ability to: specifications and Manage meetings, identify, develop and establish
Lead, chair, contribute to working papers formal and informal communication channels between
and record meetings and (e.g. meeting stakeholders.
discussions minutes, planning
Prepare communications, documents, Negotiate on variations, budgets and instructions.
documents and reports on correspondence) in Prepare and handle handover, closing or contract
complex matters a variety of formats. documentation.
Exchange information and Engaging or
Prepare service delivery documentation.
provide advice to technical interacting with
and non-technical colleagues. professional Plan and record outcomes of meetings.
networks. Deliver verbal presentations outlining solutions and
concepts.
Explain process, technical rationales and constraints
as necessary to clients and colleagues. For example,
Factory Acceptance Tests, witness testing, or role of
regulatory authorities.

1 Any interviews will be conducted in English, subject only to the provisions of the Welsh Language Act 1993 and any Regulations which may be made in implementation of European Union directives
on free movement of labour.

6 Factsheet F21
 D2 Present and discuss proposals. Presentations, Take part in meetings with prospective clients.
This could include an ability to: records of Prepare or analyse and discuss client specifications.
Prepare and deliver discussions and
presentations on strategic their outcomes. Obtain involvement of different departments in preparing
matters final solutions.
Lead and sustain debates Prepare proposals and evaluate risks.
with audiences
Prepare or evaluate final tenders, appreciate particular
Feed the results back to
procurement practices or cultural differences of particular
improve the proposals
types of client or service, such as local authority, private/
Raise the awareness of risk.
public sector, overseas, PFI / PPP, Partnering, etc.
Prepare and deliver powerful and effective presentations
using appropriate software and other presentation aids to
small and large groups, answer questions and engage in
debate.
Attend seminars; critically evaluate their usefulness,
ask questions and debate answers.
Participate in technical or design peer reviews.
Challenge thoughts and expectations of concepts
and proposals.

D3 Demonstrate personal and Records of Select and use appropriate communications styles
social skills. meetings. Evidence for the full range of professionalsituations. For example
This could include an ability to: from colleagues of notes, memos, formal letters, reports, minutes, etc.
Know and manage own your personal and Take a mature approach to awareness of your own
emotions, strengths and social skills. Take strengths and weaknesses. Seek to grow your strengths
weaknesses responsibility for and identify possible ways to improve your weaknesses.
Be aware of the needs and productive working
concerns of others, especially relationships. Exhibit well developed listening skills.
where related to diversity and Apply diversity and Make oral presentations to small and large groups, both
equality anti-discrimination formal and informal.
Be confident and flexible in legislation.
Exhibit interpersonal skills such as assertiveness,
dealing with new and changing
negotiation, flexibility, dealing with conflict.
interpersonal situations
Identify, agree and lead work Select appropriate communication modes and
towards collective goals approaches for different situations such as sell, explain,
Create, maintain and reprimand.
enhance productive working Communicate in a foreign language.
relationships, and resolve
conflicts. Establish links with training and education providers.
Advise and encourage others on building services
engineering careers.
Demonstrate advanced time and stress
management skills.

7 Factsheet F21
E. Demonstrate a personal commitment to professional standards,
recognising obligations to society, the profession and the environment.
No Objective Range Evidence Examples

E1 Comply with relevant codes of Work with a variety Examine, digest and abide by the CIBSE Code of
conduct. of conditions Conduct. Exercise all reasonable professional skill
This includes an ability to: of contract. and care.
Comply with the rules of Demonstrate Give due regard as appropriate to the Engineering
professional conduct of own initiative in and Council (EngC) Guidelines.
Institution. commitment to
Lead work within all relevant the affairs of your Promote the profession and encourage the development
legislation and regulatory institution. of others.
frameworks, including social Exercise a working knowledge of all current and
and employment legislation. impending legislation, standards and Codes of Practice
that will influence, guide and regulate your work.
Understanding own responsibility for holding this status.
Maintain professional competence and keep up to date
with technical knowledge and an understanding through
research, CPD, reading and participating in the activities
of the Institution.

E2 Manage and apply safe systems Undertake formal Be aware of your employers health and safety policy and
of work. health and safety practice as they relate to your personal circumstances
This could include an ability to: training. Work with and to your responsibility for others.
Identify and take responsibility health and safety Understanding your responsibility for good safety culture.
for own obligations for health, legislation and best
safety and welfare issues practice. Taking responsibility for your safety as well as others
Ensure that systems satisfy ensuring actions are taken immediately as appropriate.
In the UK, examples
health, safety and welfare include HASAW Provide information as required for the Health and Safety
requirements 1974, CDM regs, plan for projects and to comply with the Construction
Develop and implement OHSAS 18001:2007 (Design & Management) Regulations (CDM).
appropriate hazard and company safety Be familiar with and take responsibility for safe systems
identification and risk policies. of work, method statements for the execution of work and
management systems and
Carry out safety permits to work systems.
culture
Manage, evaluate and improve audits. Identify and
these systems minimise hazards.
Apply a sound knowledge of Assess and control
health and safety legislation. risks. Evaluate the
costs and benefits
of safe working.
Deliver strategic
health and safety
briefings and
inductions.

8 Factsheet F21
 E3 Undertake engineering activities Carry out Actively promote the profile and implementation of
in a way that contributes to environmental engineering solutions and designs that embrace the
sustainable development. impact principles of sustainability in materials and energy
This could include an ability to: assessments. Carry sources.
Operate and act responsibly, out environmental Actively engage in the process of reducing carbon
taking account of the need risk assessments. emissions by reducing energy requirements using
to progress environmental, Plan and implement prudent design techniques and innovation.
social and economic outcomes best practice
simultaneously environmental Observe good practice in respect of sustainability,
Use imagination, creativity and management energy conservation and environmental awareness in the
innovation to provide products systems, e.g. ISO conduct of your own business and practice.
and services which maintain 14000. Manage Help clients to embrace sound environmental principles
and enhance the quality of the best practice risk by providing them with commercially sound whole life
environment and community, management performance information identifying long term benefits.
and meet financial objectives systems e.g. ISO
Understand and secure 31000. Work within
stakeholder involvement in environmental
sustainable development legislation. Adopt
Use resources efficiently and sustainable
effectively. practices. Achieve
social, economic
and environmental
outcomes.

E4 Carry out and record Continuing Keep up to date Be proactive in any available company appraisal and
Professional Development (CPD) with national development system.
necessary to maintain and and international Be involved with CIBSE activities, Technical and Regional
enhance competence in own area engineering issues. Groups.
of practice. Maintain CPD
Including: plans and records. Read professional journals, attend development
Undertake reviews of own Involvement with seminars.
development needs the affairs of your Plan short, medium and long term CPD.
Plan how to meet personal and Intuitions. Evidence
Help other plan their CPD.
organisational objectives of your development
Carry out planned and through on-the-job Establish links with local training and education
unplanned CPD activities learning, private providers.
Maintain evidence of study, in-house Advise others on building services engineering careers.
competence development courses, external
Evaluate CPD outcomes courses and Mentor, assist, encourage and guide the professional
against the action plans conferences. development of others.
Assist others with their own Access information sources for learning opportunities.
CPD.
Exercise skills transfer between professional and
personal life.

E5 Exercise responsibilities in an Give an example Recognise and operate within the limits of your
ethical manner. of where you have knowledge and competence.
applied ethical Understand and operate within the Engineering Councils
principles as Statement of Ethical Principles; also understand how this
described in the is relevant to the stature of the engineering professions.
Statement of
Ethical Principles Have a general understanding of how ethical dilemmas
as published by can arise in own work and own duties to employers and
the Engineering society.
Council and the Understand and operate within your Employers Ethical
Royal Academy Standards Policy.
of Engineering.
Present only justifiable information and technical opinion,
Give an example be receptive to concerns, other aspirations and contrary
of where you have opinion or information.
applied/upheld
Evidence of training, advice and information given by
ethical principles
your employer.
as defined by your
organisation or
company, which
may be in its
company or brand
values.

9 Factsheet F21