Site Engineer Review

I am currently a Site Engineer on a major, landmark project in London. The project is big and constantly changing and as such, my duties change on a daily basis. A large part of my job is providing technical support and dimensional control (setting out) to the operatives on site and carrying out quality checks for the reinforced concrete structures. I liaise with other members of staff from across the entire project and company as well as inspectors to ensure the works are complete on time, on budget and of high quality.

The new skills and knowledge that I have gained since starting this programme has far exceeded my expectations. I am constantly learning new skills by attending training courses that my company put me on as well as the skills and knowledge I have gained simply from experiencing a live construction site. The part-time BSc Civil Engineering degree that I am currently studying for runs parrallel with the programme. The course is interesting although balancing university work and site work can be difficult at times.

I enjoy the School & College Leavers programme a lot. My job role is interesting; I am never bored of my work and the team I work with make it enjoyable coming to work rather than a chore. The team that run the programme are friendly and will not hesitate to offer as much help as they can if you need it. Above all, there is plenty of opportunity to further my career in the future whether that be within the field of Civil Engnineering, another discipline (e.g. Health and Safety) or even working abroad.

When working as a site Engineer on a project, do not expect to be constantly praised (verbally) for your daily commitments to the job. You are expected to work long hours every day (in comparison to other professions)and from time to time you will need to stay late for a concrete pour. I may not receive praise or thanks for this on a regular basis ,however, I do feel valued within my team and that my work is appreciated by those that I work with.

I believe the structure of the Laing O'Rourke School & College Leavers Programme work well. Initially, you have a 2 day induction where you learn about the company and gain some insight into your selected field as well as getting to network with your peers. Every year you will have a number of 'modules'. This could be a day session at the head office or a 3 day course in another part of the country where you gain new skills and have a the opportunity to catch up with other members of your cohort. I always look forward to these events.

When I first started the programme, I was at a different university to the one I am studying at now. The support and quality of teaching was poor. The programme team listened to these complaints and decided to change the university (which is a credit to them). Now I enjoy the days I go to university. The lecturers are friendly and approachable.

I am confident that any advice or help I may need, the programme team will help me or point me in the right direction to get the help, whatever the issue may be. Balancing university work and site based work can be difficult at times, however, I am constantly reassured by those high up in the Engineering function that they can offer assistance if it gets too much.

Since I still live at home with my parents, the compensation I receive means I live comfortably with plenty of money spare to spend or save at my will (if i needed to move away from home I could see see this being more of a struggle). The fact that Laing O'Rourke pay my university fees is also a massive bonus. There are also other perks I receive that make a big difference.

There are opportunities to get involved in community work as well as to promote STEM jobs to those still in school. Around Christmas time, there will be plenty of opportunities to celebrate with your project and the company however, since working hours are long, sometimes you will have to sacrifice your personal time for the project.

Yes

This programme is a great way to start your career and get ahead however, It does take I certain level of commitment.

Do some research into exactly what your job role will entail before applying by reading more reviews on this website.