R&D Test Engineer Review

A combination of an excellent and inclusive role, working evironment and mentor ensured I was always happy within my role and the company as a whole.

I was valued as much as any other employee at my level. Whilst this was at a relatively low level, it didn't affect what jobs/tasks were available to me or how much my input mattered.

An assigned mentor met with me once a week (with the option of more or less as I desired and felt appropriate) to discuss my current work load, personal progression and to address any questions that I had. This was especially useful when working on a more complicated or significant subject. My mentor was also available at any time during the day if I had any questions.

I always had at least one primary objective to work on, and many side projects that got worked on in the background. I often found myself with a choice of what to do and was rearely short of work.

I was given the same responibility as any other employee at the same level (entry level/E1) which was a lot. I ran state-of-the-art tests the same as the other technical staff including those at the highest technical level. I had my own work area in the lab and two machines in there that "belonged" to me, they were my responsibility and I managed everything invloved with them, from setting them up and taking them down, to ordering new parts for them when old ones got worn or damaged. My projects were used to assist new product development and to verify previous tests and equipment.

Training was assigned on both a push and a pull basis. Much of the training was considered mandatory, such as how to use statistics in regard to our tests in our field. Other training was offered if we requested it, such as cadaver sessions to get a better understanding of the human anatomy. Most of the training however was ongoing, such as technical writing skills, this was the sort of training that you experienced everyday, I now feel my report writing has developed tenfold from when I first arrived at Depuy.

Everyone was happy, positive and helpfula round the office. It was an inclusive environment that encouraged questions and curiosity, All the employees, including me, were happy to answer anyones questions at any time.

As soon as I arrived, the first week was all planned out for me and rough guidelines were given to me on where to spend my time suring the second week. The first week gave me a rapid introduction to the company and the department. I had jury duty on the third and fourth weeks and this was accounted for quickly; my introduction was alterred accordingly, with some things being delayed and others being brought forward.

External training was offered to me as much as any other employee including training sesssions worth hundreds of pounds. If I felt I needed training or equipment then I could request it with no hassle at all.

Depuy is great to work for and there are many opportunities within for expansion. I was offered an extention with them, which I readily accepted. Secondment opportunities are available within the company, this involves working in another department for a fixed term before returning to your original department, or sometimes as a permanent position. This allows employees to get a better understanding of the company, and allows the company to make the most of its employee resource. Promotions and bonuses are also readily available for all employees.

The cost of living and socialising in the area I work and live in was cheap, though I lived about 10 miles from the site. In terms of price it is similar to other northern areas, such as Liverpool.

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