Power System Engineer Review

The ESO are given the task of managing the various power flows across the UK transmission system as well as balancing generation against demand. I am currently on placement in the commercial department who constantly review the money that is spent on achieving these aims, ensuring the value for money. Time at university is often spent looking at how the assets owned by National Grid operate as well as how the protection systems function.

First 4 weeks were spent at the Eakring training facility where courses were taken on the following: (to list a few) Microsoft Office, time management, health and safety, mental health, and presentation skills. University has given me the chance to develop mathematical skills from A-level whilst introducing new content that is relevant to the work done in the office.

Cant credit the office staff enough, all the support is there if needed. All the work is interesting and ties in nicely with the university content and could potentially be a career for life! I am not tied down into a specific role, meaning I have the chance to explore various departments before choosing one to begin a role with.

Generally the scheme is well organized, in the first week we were given a time table for the year meaning we could get all of our accommodation booked. The only issues I have had is that the outwards bound course came during a busy period at university and I feel some of the courses could have been re-arranged to better dates as some of the content was either known or forgotten.

They have provided a 'be better for calling...' service which is an anonymous support service available 24/7. In addition to this, I have never experienced a time where I was unsure who to take a problem to, weather that be peers, managers, university lecturers or trainers, they are always happy to help.

The university staff are always available to take queries and go through any issues you may be stuck with. Furthermore, the university department also offer support from the LDC (learning development center) who run support sessions and provide online resources such as video tutorials and additional questions with worked solutions

The majority of knowledge learned at university has been relevant to my role, making the work done in the workplace more familiar and less daunting. Although much of the mathematics unlikely to be used, it is good to know how the system functions and the knowledge helps to understand how the problems experienced have arisen.

There are often networking activities advertised on various mailing lists which provide an opportunity to meet new people from different departments and learn new skills. Since joining, I have been involved with the football team and often meet up with colleagues outside of work do social activities such as climbing.

Yes

They have provided me with everything I could want from an employer, I do not feel restricted in any way and any changes I would make to the scheme are very minor. The workload I have experienced is not too much, giving me chance to focus on my studies at university. The work done at the office is interesting and is critical to our success as a country, making me feel proud to be a part of National Grid. The pay is excellent and a car has been provided to help with the travelling that is required for the role.

I would suggest to take great care with the application process, it is very competitive and thorough but definitely with it if accepted. I have also found it very useful to make a good group of peers as it has made the relocation much easier as well as giving me someone to ask any silly questions I did not feel confident asking your manger.