Applications Analyst Review

Role: Applications Analyst I work as part of a department that provides support to main control users within the company. Within my team we support one particular system, sometimes said to be the backbone of the whole control system. Can perform a huge variety of tasks depending on operational needs of the company.

Have attended nearly 40 courses since starting at the company, and attending more every week. Will soon have the opportunity to attend a professional course on a programming language I have never used and provides highly transferable skills. Have also learnt about being in a non customer facing environment, and how that changes the way you need to interact with others. Has also meant communication has to be improved as colleagues based across the country, meaning all methods of communication must be effective.

The work we do plays a role in every single person's lives within the UK. The satisfaction that the job provides is significant, and feeling like you can make a difference. The culture is very positive and forward thinking, providing fascinating insights into the industry, making you realize quite how much happens 'behind the scenes'

National Grid values all employees well, as part of the culture. Despite the fact I have still limited ability and experience compared to others due to the complexity of the system, my own manager, and even the managers in the levels above that have taken the time to chat and see how the work is progressing.

The program has been clearly structured from the beginning, with a timetable clearly stating what we will be doing at various points for training courses. All training is booked by the dedicated team, meaning I have little to organize. Day to day work is subject to operational constraints, but in terms of internal placements, these are modified based on my preferences.

The Academy (our training provider) is good, providing a large variety of training sessions. They actively support any problems that arise promptly. In line with the company's priorities, there is frequent communications on health and safety, and other varying amounts of information from the company. There is also a dedicated group which allows feedback to be given on the apprenticeship.

There is a very good level of support within the workplace, making me feel like a part of the team, and not a junior member. Whenever support and guidance is needed, they are also happy to provide that. The culture within the company is very enthusiastic about what they do, and keen to share knowledge and guidance.

The salary is very, very high in comparison to any company offering apprenticeships. Any expenses are paid quickly and promptly with the process being fairly straightforward, and booking of any travel or hotels is also easy. Many pieces of equipment is also provided, including phones, laptops and protective equipment. The salary allows me to cover all personal costs, and save significantly.

When on training courses, the facilities provided there are excellent and of a good quality. In a day to day environment, this does become slightly limited due to the location of my office, as it is a secondary location compared to where others are. While there are a good number of event for new starters, the majority are in locations away from my office; however I still do have the opportunity to attend if I wish.

Yes

The company provides a very good wage, for a job which is both fascinating and unique. There is very much a view to attaining a job long term within the company. In fact many people within the business were once apprentices themselves, meaning they are keen to help and show they have been working for the company their entire working life.

Most importantly, do some research on the company. Being able to quote some key details from within and about the business will impress the interviewers immensely, and demonstrate enthusiasm. The early stages are fairly generic, with an application form and online tests. The next stage is a telephone interview, in which is tough, so research for this stage is crucial. The last stage is an assessment day. Here, it is crucial to make your voice heard, without being overpowering. Show off your knowledge about the company, be a team player, but don't allow yourself to blend into the background. Be prepared for a long process too. Applying to the company and then the various stages can take several months. If you're successful, you will be invited onto a welcome day, which every effort should be made to attend as it is incredibly valuable for when you start.