Trainee Shift Engineer Review

I thoroughly enjoyed working my placement. It was a great experience from both a professional and personal aspect. I was even lucky enough to be offered sponsorship with a guaranteed job when my studies were completed.

I felt highly valued and trusted by my colleagues and managers. However, being a trainee, my overall impact on the bigger decisions was often overlooked. The pay of the trainees compared to other workers (e.g agency staff) didn't adequately reflect their performance, could make me feel less appreciated.

I was constantly being offered help and support from my supervisors right from the start. There were various members of the team who took it upon themselves to aid me in my development, even though I wasn't their responsibility.

As the role was shift based working 12 hours a day on a tunneling project, I was extremely busy on a daily basis. My immediate managers would strive to allocate me breaks or relieve me when necessary, however their superiors overlooked just how demanding the job role was.

I had a high degree of responsibility on the site which was one of the pros to the placement. However, it wasn't always my place to have the final say on any of the work.

As previously mentioned, my skills benefited greatly from the experience both personally and professionally. Furthermore, I was offered sponsorship as a result of my performance.

Both in the office and on site, the atmosphere was generally welcoming and kept spirits up. There was certainly a more professional stance within in the office, and often a lack of it on site.

The set up of the placement was overall well organised. It was clear from the beginning what was required of me and the path placement students would need to take.

I was frequently sent on training schemes, paid for by the company. On occasions where it took place out of work hours, I would be given time off at an alternative date to compensate.

As previously mentioned, I was awarded sponsorship resulting in a job as soon as I graduate from university. I believe the company values it employees and will invest heavily in me and my future.

There were a total of 8 placement students on the project, several whom I currently study with. Regardless of this, there was a good sense of a social scene amongst both us and our colleagues.

Working and living in London meant that living, socialising and travelling was expensive. The company did however offer me £3000 a year for travel.

The night life was certainly adequate and being a trainee, it was rare for my colleagues to allow me to put my hand in my pocket.

There weren't many structured or organised events outside of work to participate in. There was always the opportunity for a casual or social outing with colleagues.