Maintenance Electrician Review

The role that I hold within Jaguar Land Rover is a maintenance electrician within the Facilities and Site Services department at Gaydon; this site is one of JLRs product development sites and the jobs that I complete are varied. I have completed domestic work in an industrial environment; such as the installation of lighting circuits, switches and 240v power sockets. Additionally, I have worked on 110V and 415V equipment which includes test rigs, 5-axis machinery and climatic test cells. Our department supports preventative maintenance, breakdowns and new installations allowing the site and testing to operate as smoothly as possible. Communications have to be made externally between maintenance contractors and suppliers - internal interactions have to be made with colleagues and those who raise the job to further understand the work to be carried out.

Within an academic environment I have achieved a NVQ2 in fitting, electrical and turning; additionally, I completed a Technical Certificate Engineering Diploma. Currently, I am studying a foundation degree in electrical engineering. Within my working environment I have completed a first aid course, MEWP training, ECPL training and substation awareness. I have become more confident and competent academically and vocationally leading me to feel comfortable completing my role.

I feel very comfortable and content within my role and as part of the maintenance team - we are a small but dedicated team who work well together and cooperate to complete the job. I didn't know what to expect from an engineering environment, however, though it is more male dominated, I have been welcomed and accepted as part of the team. I thoroughly enjoy my job due to the environment that I work in and the variety of work.

I feel an appreciated member of the team - my manager communicates with me effectively and supports and queries or suggestions that I have; such as potential placement or project ideas. Those who raise jobs have the option to leave feedback and it is rewarding to receive positive feedback from those reviewing the work carried out. My supervisor understands and respects my need to experience different jobs and allows me to choose the jobs that I feel benefit my learning.

The induction week to the programme was thorough and was concise as to the structure of the apprenticeship. The training that I have received since has always been relevant to my role and I can also chose additional courses to further my knowledge; such as first aid training. Every six weeks a mentor meeting is carried out to discuss any issues with training or work which offers support and guidance. Focus groups also take place where the apprentice manager listens to any queries or suggestions that we have as a group.

The college offers support for all problems; academic to personal. The staff are friendly and the support is easy to access and well advertised around the college. When I have required the support of the college I have felt comfortable and the attitude they work with makes it easier to confide.

My manager supports and delegates projects to me to enhance my training and education which I find invaluable. Regular meetings with internal mentors have ensured that I feel comfortable and supported within my working environment and college.

The salary is excellent - it supports my travelling expenses and allows me enough money to save and live comfortably. The location of the JLR sites allows access from many areas with easy access of neighbouring motorways and A roads.

I have attended a magnitude of events since I started working - there are company inclusion events where volunteers attend schools to enthuse school children to consider engineering. Additionally, I have had the privilege to meet important people; such as company directors, Ed Milliband, Her Majesty The Queen and His Majesty Prince Charles. Additionally, JLR supports the learning of activities outside of work by funding activities such as brick laying, driving lessons, piano lessons and outdoor adventure weekends.

Yes

I have thoroughly enjoyed working for JLR since I joined the apprenticeship - I have had the opportunity to be part of a growing company and I feel proud to say that I work for Jaguar Land Rover. There are so many opportunities to decide a career and the company fully supports everyone to be the best that they can be.

The application process may appear to be long but it is because there are so many applicants and the best hundred have to be selected from thousands. The interviewers are looking for how you can apply yourself and for enthusiasm within the sector; though, even if you aren't interested with working on cars then this still might be the right company as JLR offers apprenticeships in many supporting roles. Assessment days ad practical sessions are set up for you show logic, application and how well you can work in a team.