Transport Planning Technician Review

I am a transport planning technician, so I am used as a resource to help out with the various projects going on in my team. I work with software such as AutoCAD, VISSIM, and other transport focused software. I also write reports on projects and perform calculations using excel. As we all have our own laptops, I am able to work from anywhere, so I can go work from another office and support them in their projects. You can also work from home, or from your main office and work on projects undertaken by other offices.

AutoCAD has been my main focus. Starting as a Level 3 apprentice a few years ago I have learnt a lot using CAD and can now draw industry spec plans. As I have become more experienced, I have been given the opportunities to work with clients directly and present to them. Public speaking and working well in a team weren't my strongest qualities but now I am confident in myself.

I do quite enjoy my program. Working 4 days a week and then completing my Level 4 HNC once a week provides an easy balance to my life. The work is always different, so I will always be learning something new. My team is really social and we go out a few times a month. Company culture is really positive, being social and finding that work/social life balance is encouraged.

I know what I am doing and what my course structure is for the next few years. My course structure was highlighted and explained in my job contract that I signed at the beginning of my course. It is organised fairly well as we have a apprenticeship manager who speaks to us to see how things are going and what the company can do better to help with our careers.

Any training that I require on the job is provided by my work. My manager supports me, as well as my training provider so I have quite a lot of help. I have a one to one with my manager to speak about my progress once a month. If I have a problem with anything, I can speak to HR or my Mentor and they will help me out however they can.

I meet with my training provider / tutor once a month, working on my NVQ as well as just seeing how I'm getting on with my job, and how things are going with my course at college. I am able to call them up whenever I need to, and they will help me however they can. They are very helpful and will always get back to you.

What I learn day to day has some relevance towards my studies at college, mainly the health and safety, and working with computer software part. The theory of it all is also quite helpful and is relevant to both my work and college. Working full time and studying part time both help me understand my role in the industry, and the effect my work has on the environment.

We have a sports and social committee that plans a few social events each month. We do things like bowling, go-karting, and Pay Day meals. There are quite a few sports club that you can take part in, as well as the annual sports day when all the offices in the UK come together and compete between each other in sports.

Yes

I would recommend to a friend as your overall career is structured, and the company aims to help you achieve any personal goals that you have set yourself, as well as providing you with all the training you require to complete your course, and gain a high level of experience. The salary and work / social life is good, and easily balanced with going to college.

The advice that I would give is that try to do internships and gain as much experience as you can before applying. It always helps to know the company's background, and what the job role is for the position that you are applying for. Arrive to the interview as early as you can, be respectful, and be yourself.