Utilities Operational Technician Review

My role contains a mixture of routine and reactive tasks that we complete to keep our sites compliant to meet the consents set by the Environment Agency on our product. The process which I am involved in is very interesting and optimises the use of bacteria for the treatment of water. Part of my job is to analyse these bugs to ensure they are performing correctly, this means I have to take samples and use these samples to understand the status of the process.

Coming into the business straight from school meant that I had to adapt to the new environment that I was working in. The workplace is totally different and having the professionalism and social skills to get along within the team is important to get along with the team. I have also learnt, in depth, about the water treatment process as part of t my level three qualifications.

My program is enjoyable because of the variety of problems you can face on a daily basis that require problem solving to resolve. I love a challenge and the fact you never know what might crop up makes the challenge even tougher. Maintaining and optimising the process is what makes my job worth while and helping the business achieve its goal of becoming the most trusted water company by 2020 is what helps keep me motivated.

My programme has had a clear structure through out with a split between college and on site experience. This combination has allowed me to complete my qualifications whilst also gaining the vital experience I need to link the learning to practical work. Overall the structure has been a good balance between the two.

I have quarterly reviews with my manager in which we discuss my progress I have made within my apprenticeship. They ensure that I am getting all the support I need, and if I am underperforming, tell me what I should do to get back on track. These reviews keep me focused on my goals and achievements.

My training provider is always on hand to support me if I have any queries about my course. They help me to understand what I don't know, and ensure I am receiving all the support I need to pass my qualifications. I have an assessor who marks the work I complete and is also available to answer any questions, keeping me on track with my course work.

I believe that it has allowed me to understand why we perform the practical tasks. The depth of understanding has also allowed me to be better at problem solving due to my understanding of the process. Overall the qualification is heavily linked to he job and is therefore vital for an in depth understanding of the process.

I have attending numerous professional events at work for training purposes, however I have not seen an opportunity for me to join a sports team. There are opportunities to attend volunteering days to help the communities near and around your area. For social events my area is looking at taking part in a team building day.

Yes

Because they are a reputable company who look after there staff. There are a broad range of job opportunities within the company and space to move around if wanted. The work environment is great and the team I work with has a really good relationship with each other and the manager.

Don't be afraid to apply, even if its not something you know a lot about. The apprenticeships process is about learning and developing yourself within a job role, you don't have to know a lot about it already. Your personality and characteristics may be just what we need to take our company to a higher standard.