Human factors engineer Review

My placement has been fantastic. It has provided me with experience in a wide range of areas. As part of the placement I have visited a range of power stations across the UK. This exposure is invaluable. Throughout the placement I have been strongly supported by various team members any my group head.

I felt extremely valued by my colleagues. They supported and encouraged me throughout my placement. I was given constructive and encouraging feedback on each piece of work I completed. They took me on trips with them to different power stations so I could shadow different projects involving different people and reviews. Their support has helped me progress my skills and competencies.

My group head provided a high level of support throughout my placement. I would attend pre job briefs every month to review the work I had completed and discuss what areas I need to cover for future career aspirations. My group head would also talk to me about what training I could attend that would improve my knowledge and help the projects I was on.

I was busy but not too busy. I had enough work to keep me busy but I was never overwhelmed. My group head would often review my work load with me to check that I was happy with the amount of work I had on. The work I was given challenged me to a good extent.

I was given enough responsibility over my own work load and research. I was never given too much responsibility, I was never responsible for things out of my competency level. I was responsible for meeting deadlines and delivering work to a high standard. I was also responsible for a few research projects which I managed single handedly.

This placement has given me the range of skills I need in order to work in the specialised area I desire to work in. My degree doesn't directly relate to this role and therefore would not be able to enter this line of work without this years placement. This placement has allowed me to adapt the skills I learned at uni to a real life context.

The atmosphere was perfect for me. There's a nice balance between work and chat. At times it could get a bit quiet but that's good when you are busy and have a lot of work to get through. The people around me were all very approachable, helpful and friendly. The desks are open plan which is nice.

Extremely organised, I think this was due to the organisation of my line manager. Every meeting, training, station visit was very well organised. I always knew what was expected of me and what I needed to deliver. The expectations were clearly set from day 1 which made the whole placement straightforward and enjoyable.

I was often put on training courses and sent to station. Therefore I feel that the company invested a large amount of money and time in me. This investment was very proactive of the company. I never had to push to go to any station or to go on any training course, the company always seemed obliging to this.

I would love to be in the team I was located with for my placement. Having done the job role for what would be 12months I know exactly what it entails and it really appeals to me. The work stretches the mind, the people are great and the company is brilliant. The support amongst the team is encouraging and the wage is great.

There is a young professionals group which is good for socialising with other placements.

The location is great for socialising. It's close to a gym, pub, hair salon and the main town. The cost of living depends on what area you decide to live in. Compared to my previous accommodation this by far has been the cheapest location I have lived in. Near the bus stop as well.

The nightlife is good

Yes there is a social club you can join which has a wide range of things to do with other colleagues.