Trainee Engineer Review

by Costain

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6.1/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

to carry out tasks on site, currently working on an office compound setup. communicating with engineers and foreman on site, as well as sub contractors carrying out works on site. the tasks consist of setting and marking out as well as looking after and monitoring works carried out on site which includes concrete pours excavations and lifts.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Carried out a level 3 NVQ and diploma and i will have completed a level 5 HND in July. There are many training course options that can be taken with a recent release of an online training library it is quick and easy to book onto any courses you would like from first aid to temporary works coordinator courses.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

It is working well at the moment however there have been times where there has been lack of direction and leadership. The company has a great culture with high standards for safety.

6/10

4. How valued do you feel by Costain?

As my ability on site increases i feel more and more valued by costain. There are many areas of recognition both internally and externally with awards and ceremonies carried out each year. Also on our site we have a monthly progress meeting with nominations and the award of player of the month.

7/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

On my site it works very well and is well structured and monitored however when it comes to looking after and managing apprentices there have been times where i have been disappointed with the lack of direction and leadership. This has recently been changing however it seems to be taking a long time with no real answers to questions that have been put forward from all apprentices.

4/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

East berkshire college is a good college who provide plenty of help and support with the work that is carried out.

8/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

A decent amount especially after a personal development review.

8/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

I am currently on £20170 i also get a daily travel allowance of around £3600 per annum so in total around £23770. With pay reviews every 6 months, however for the tasks and level of work carried out on site higher level trainees with a couple of years on site experience with costain should be paid for the job we do. An acceptable amount at this level would be £30,000+ as i have been with costain for nearly 4 years.

4/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

Not directly relating to the company or project.

2/10

9. Would you recommend Costain to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

For the training that is provided and easily accessed.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Costain?

Ensure that the project is the correct one for you and then go away and learn about how it is being built and why it is being built. By gaining a bit of knowledge about the project before applying can go along way in being offered a position. Also bear in mind that even though i have made some negative comments about the support the apprentices get on site it is currently being restructured with the benefits of this hopefully being seen soon.