Software Engineer Review

My role is a Software Engineer. My primary responsibilities consist of Software Development, various levels of testing from component testing to clone testing. On a daily basis other then development and testing I am responsible to contribute towards the team sprint goals in an agile scrum team. Tasks can include document changes, writing test plans and even contributing towards architectural high level designs. Being part of an agile scrum team I have many interactions with amongst different job roles such as Software Architects, Test Assurance, Service Delivery Managers and Project Managers. Occasionally I interact with external stakeholder such as the client and project teams if necessary for the project I am working on.

Qualifications wise I have undertaken my ISTQB foundation certification in software testing. To help me improve my performance at work I have attended Cool-GEN and SQL training. I have also spent time shadowing experienced colleagues to obtain new skills. Working as a software engineer I feel as though the biggest improvement I have made is my technical skills, I feel more technically able and have a better understanding when discussing technical topics. I would also add that since being part of an Agile Scrum Team I have gained a better understanding of project delivery.

I do enjoy the content of the program amongst the different modules however I do find it very challenging to keep up with the pace sometimes. Being in full time employment there are pressures and deadlines to meet and also each program module has a demand in effort to be successful in each module. When both elements are equally as demanding this can become very difficult to deliver as much focus to everything as required. The content meets my expectation however the work load is much larger then expected as a part time student. I think I would enjoy it a lot more if there were less pressure.

I feel very valued as am employee, my hard work is often rewarded when going above and beyond. I also feel there is a good support structure to help drive my career. We don't get much external recognition when it comes to project work, this is something I would like to see more of in the future.

I would say that the program could be delivered more smooth if all module tutors were aware of the expectations they all set on us. Sometimes we get hit with multiple tasks at the same time which could effect the quality of work. Sometimes it feels as though the tutors are not aware of the other deadlines we have to meet. All of the content needed it mostly available, the webinar sessions are a good time to ask questions however the university also offers office hours to address queries which is good also. It seems that each module on blackboard is also formatted differently so it is not always obvious where you need to look to find what your looking for (as each tutor sets the directories up differently).

Each module normally offers a time booking system to address issues which is good from a support perspective. On the online webinar sessions the tutor is always happy to answer any questions.

Support at Capgemini is very impressive, there is always someone to talk to regardless of the topic. To support out studies we get 22days a year study leave which helps take pressure off a lot at times closing on deadlines for the course. We also have a Program manager who is always available to talk to if we are hit with problems or areas of concern. There is also a mentoring program which I take advantage off, this helps me drive my career and helps me find/ take opportunities.

My salary is ok, since being on the program I have built up a bigger salary which allows me to meet my living costs better. My employer is always willing to cover any travel costs which are appropriate with my Degree Apprenticeship.

Capgemini offer 'Giving back' activities which allow you to do something a little different, like charity events. I took part in a local community event which was to help improve the facilities of a Zoo - I found this exciting and a great way to network new people within the company.

Yes

There are a lot of good opportunities at Capgemini, I have learnt that if there is something your interested that Capgemini can offer 9/10 you can make it possible. The support to help you achieve your career goals is fantastic.

Be yourself, don't hold yourself back. Capgemini are a great company to work for as they don't only consider people with a great CV, they look for talent through people, people with a hungry personality and can demonstrate the ability to learn to eventually benefit the company.