Process Design Industrial Placement Student Review

Providing design support for the project you work by producing design supporting documents. For process engineering these are things like calculations, process descriptions, process flow diagrams etc. This could be in preliminary, detailed design or commissioning stages. There is a lot of interactions within your team but most work involves other disciplines.

As a requirement of the placement, I have created a personal development plan which has helped me target behavioural weaknesses such as communication and a broader understanding of the company. I've had the opportunity to deliver presentations to large groups of senior engineers, developing my confidence and presenting skills. My technical knowledge of the project has grown massively being able to apply my core chemical engineering learning from university in the real world.

I was given more responsibility as the year went on. In the nuclear industry there is never sole responsibility on one person so I felt as ease if I was to make a mistake somebody would catch it.

My line manager and career mentor have been very supportive in my experience and have had a lot of time for me. Some people who don't interact as much with placement students don't care as much but these are a minority.

I found the company culture very relaxed and friendly. The general atmosphere is always positive. Sometimes work is slow moving and there is a lot of bureaucracy which meant I did not feel immediate pressure and stress to deliver work.

Overall I have really enjoyed the experience. The attitude of the team and my manager have allowed me to feel like a valued team member. I have gained valuable behavioural skills and I am pleased with my personal and professional development.

Yes

Sellafield is a great starting place for your career as there is a focus on beginning chartership early. The company is very keen on demonstrating continuous professional development and good problem solving abilities in interviews.