KMF Flying Squad (Onsite engineer) Review

My job title is 'KMF Flying Squad', meaning operationally that I fly out to different client sites in Europe to support the clients operations, upgrade software and troubleshoot issues. My project is Galileo, a European GPS equivalent which has just officially gone live.

Learned a huge variety of both hard and soft skills since starting including java programming, Linux and SQL as well as general technical skills. Being onsite and interacting with the client in unfamiliar and often very intense environments has resulted in a lot of progress in my soft skills such as time management, client interactions and resilience.

I truly love my team, role and project as a whole, which far far exceeded my expectations. The university side of our scheme is a weaker area for technical students in my opinion, as there is a heavier business slant than I would prefer. Overall I have no regrets whatsoever for choosing CGI and find it unlikely that there were other opportunities out there which I would have enjoyed more.

On a team and project level I feel very valued. I work in a closely knit team which is regularly required to go above and beyond a normal working day - but this is never forced and almost always I feel very well recognised for the work I do. CGI also has a scheme for member recognition which I have been awarded.

On the business and work side of the programme, such as induction, training, mentoring and project work I cannot fault the organisation. However on the university side there could be improvements in the structure.

The support we are given is generally good but highly dependant on the tutor for a particular module. At the time of this review there are a high number of new staff in the university who don't seem as familiar with the way things normally work, which can cause some issues, but we have a number of points of contact, all of whom I really believe are trying their very best to assist and support us.

The support we are given from CGI is something I would consider both exhaustive and exceptionally useful. Any issues I have ever had in my work have a number of avenues available for resolution, from managers and mentors, to e-learning, member assistance program (for those going through difficult times) and a number of other employee benefits.

I am in an unusual situation compared to other students in my cohort in that my project are providing accommodation close to the office for me, as well as all my travel costs (Since I am often away travelling), which is tied to a generous expenses policy. Although the salary itself is often a sticking point for a great deal of people I speak to in the company, I never found myself wanting for more money, and am very happy with the current salary progression.

CGI provides a vast amount of activities outside of work, from fundraising opportunities, corporate events, a 'Sports and Social Club' as well as other benefits such as a discount scheme and share purchase plan.

Yes

I have loved my time here and think that CGI is a stable, fair and generous employer. Because of the nature of the company and the variety in other peoples projects and roles I imagine that others may not agree with me, but in my own experience it is a fantastic company.

Know what are of CGI you want to enter before applying and have an idea in your mind about where you want to end up. Don't get too 'tunnel visioned' as CGI appreciates a rounded employee. Other than that, just general tips apply, do your research and present yourself as well as you can!