Build Field Engineer Review

I have been brought on as an apprentice Build Engineer. This involves many tasks on a daily basis. These can range from things like installing Hydra cables - a flexible pre made end-to-end fibre cable or installing a rack and commissioning it for service. I deal with internal colleagues on a daily basis for team calls and advice. Externally I deal with control centres to co-op the jobs I am completing. We are responsible for our vans and van checks and are given a lot of responsibility in picking our own jobs and tasks.

I feel I have learnt a lot of in house skills related to the job thus far. And I have furthered skills I had already experienced some years ago. One of which is learning how to solder correctly. This is a useful skill to acquire and one that can be used as a life skill. I have attended some courses relating to job specific tasks, such as 'Emergency First Aid' training. This is a good skill to have.

I enjoy the team aspect very much in my time so far. The team I work with is like a little family, very supportive and a good balance of characters. I enjoy the company that I work for. All the tools I need to succeed are here and anything I might need will be at the end of the phone or via an email. The culture is very relaxed in a senses, with a good balance of professionalism.

I feel in the role I am in, it is difficult to receive direct recognition. We work behind the scenes and make the cogs turn in terms of keeping everyone connected. I feel we do a good job and sometimes that is not always recognised. I feel valued by my peers but don't think this is always transcended downwards.

I did not have an induction as such, as I joined later in the programme. However one of the local trainers made the effort to meet me on my first day and help me set up. I found this beneficial and considerate. I feel the training I have had thus far has been beneficial and related to the jobs I will be carrying out. I feel my study time has been allocated well and this is something that has been appreciated. I feel my apprentice coach has been very supportive in any questions I may have.

I feel my apprentice coach has offered nothing but support since I have joined the company. He is always 'just a phone call away' if I need anything. My apprentice coach guides me and directs me in a way that is challenging and gives constructive feedback in regards to my development.

I feel my Line Manager has supported me well with my study time and in terms of getting me on courses. This all leads to my development in the future. I haven't had to have much involvement with the HR team so far but the network of support out there is easy to see. I have had support internally when highlighting IT problems and any 'in-house' problems I may have.

I feel as an apprentice wage it seems a little low. I feel this is my opinion as I am a little older than other apprentices. I know though that throughout my progression, this will improve and I will reap the benefits. I don't feel it is directed towards the older apprentices and this is something I feel could be improved upon.

From what I have seen so far there appear to many opportunities in terms of events and external activities associated with BT. There are plenty of voluntary incentives and these are something they encourage within the company.

Yes

The company is a good company to work for and something I value most in terms of working for a professional reputable company. I feel we are treated well, like adults and have responsibility.

The application process was simple and easy. I encourage anyone, from the experiences I have had so far, to apply to BT. The experiences and opportunities so far have been good and I feel its enjoyable.