DevOps Engineer Review

I work in the Microsoft area working in live services. This means I look after multiple different HMRC services and am available to fix them when customers have issues. I've been in a lot of different roles throughout my time here but this one is by far the best. I'm also looked upon to come in out of hours and be on call so I do live and breath work at the moment which isn't a bad thing.

I'm currently still learning SQL and Unix languages which are required in my day to day working life. I've booked onto an advanced Microsoft SQL Server course which is happening in a few weeks and another course which covers an older language (Visual Basic) in September so I have those to look forward to.

The programme really helped with adjusting to working life. Before joining I was fresh out of college and only had part time retail jobs. Joining a new company without knowing anyone is daunting enough but with this programme you had 30 plus other people in the same boat so it helped with that. We were given loads of opportunities throughout the course as well, such as team building activities, social gatherings and lots more.

I feel like this changes depending on what team you're on. I've been on teams that don't value you much and others that do. Some managers appreciate you and this shows and others don't and expect everything from you. I've got mixed values on this so I'll go half way and rate it a 5. I am currently feeling valued in the role I'm doing at the moment though.

It was very well structured. Since joining Capgemini back in 2011 I'm still a part of the programme even though I've been here for that long. I still get invites to things, asked to speak at different places and generally teaching those about my experiences here at Capgemini so I do still feel included which is great.

When I joined I had a buddy who would help me with work life, in team and apprenticeship wise. Most managers I've had have supported me with in work and sometimes non work stuff. If I had a problem I'd always go to them for help, if they didn't do anything then I'd usually go to my top level manager or HR. I've had numerous training courses provided to me but that was when I first joined, since then its slowly declined making me feel less and less a part of being an apprentice.

Like I said previously some managers provide loads of support, some others don't, it all depends on the area you work in. I've also had similar experiences with HR, some of my issues were looked at with open eyes, some others haven't been. So I'm 50/50 on this, it all depends on who you get as a manager and HR representative.

My salary is okay, I know its less than most other people my grade but with the overtime and on call it bumps it up. I do regret moving around roles a lot though as that has stunted my progression. I'm still a grade O3 and most of the people I joined the apprenticeship with are grade O4s. This has also stunted my salary which makes me sad.

I know Capgemini do organize a lot of different outside activities and events. The area I'm in at the moment doesn't reflect these but in other areas that I've worked its been highly advised to attend these. Like most of the above its really where you work that decides whether you're included with these things or not.

Yes

Capgemini is a great place to work. Fun and interesting work, flexible hours, decent pay and good people. If it wasn't enjoyable I wouldn't still be here after 6 years. Sure its got its negative parts but that's truly down to the people, which you can't help that much. As a whole Capgemini is a fantastic employer and I'm still thankful for the opportunity I got all those years ago.

Be yourself, show Capgemini who you really are. I've seen so many unique personalities around it would be great to see some more. Don't be afraid of not knowing something, I used to be and it got me no where. The people here are always available to help and if one person isn't then another will be. Its all about networking and getting your name out there. Do all the work you can get your hands on, even if its not to your taste, get on with it and work your way up the ladder.