Software Engineer Review

My job title is Software Engineer. I have worked on 3 different projects where my roles have varied incredibly. I Have been involved in writing automation tests, developing the User Interface in iPhone apps, and am currently working in a DevOps support role. I have responsibilities for fault-finding, managing user accounts and doing platform work.

I have developed several skills, including a few programming languages (Python, Java, HTML, JavaScript to name but a few) and am in the process of learning to use AWS, and will hopefully become a certified AWS administrator this year. I have learnt a lot about working in a business environment as well. I've been on courses across the country.

I have hugely enjoyed the programme so far. There has been a lot of variety to the work I've been doing, and I've learnt a lot of new things. There is always an opportunity to learn something different. I’ve also been able to travel a lot with my role. It’s hard work at times, doing the degree at the same time, but worth it.

I feel extremely valued by Capgemini. As apprentices, we have a structured pay and progression timeline, with clearly defined goals set. The company invests in you in more ways than just salary, though. I’ve been on a few courses and they put a big emphasis on helping you grow as a person as well as a developer, with some great employee benefits.

I think the programme is well structured. There is a clear timeline detailing how and when we will complete different stages, and although the workload does get pretty intense at times, everything is well planned. I think the programme structure is designed by Aston University, in collaboration with Capgemini, they work together to make it work for the company and for us

The training provider, Aston University, provide support in many forms. There are many channels we can go through when we need assistance and help. There is a wealth of information they provide online, and if you can’t find the information you need, your lecturers can always be contacted by email and I’ve always found them to be extremely supportive

Capgemini provides a great deal of support, from study days that we can take to prepare for exams, complete coursework etc, and mentors we can go to if we need any help from them. They have invested a lot in getting us through the degree apprenticeship and they want to do everything they can to help you succeed, and it shows.

For most apprenticeships, the salary is more than enough. I am a little bit older than most apprentices and have a family. To be honest, I find it a bit of a challenge supporting my family on this salary, and I took a paycut to join Capgemini, but I knew that would be the case, and I’m happy that by the time I finish the degree, I will be earning much more and it will have been worth it.

I think there are a lot of opportunities within Capgemini to do ‘extracurricular’ activities, many of which they will support. The company loves to support employees carrying out charity activities. I find my schedule too busy to do a lot, myself, but I have young children to also share my time with.

Yes

I I have thoroughly enjoyed my time working here, and the company has opened up many opportunities for me. I’ve learnt much more in the short time I’ve been here than I expected, and I haven’t even scratched the surface. It is a fun place to work, with a very inclusive and fun culture. I also think the company values its people more than any other place I’ve worked before.

Be open and honest, you don't have to have the best grades or be the biggest computer whizz around, they're interested in you as a person as much as a potential software engineer.