Engineering Technician Review

My job role involves, the servicing and maintenance of automated production lines that manufacturer 3 cylinder and 4 cylinder engines for BMWs powertrain network. This involves working with advanced robotics, and PLC systems that all need regular maintenance and servicing to keep them running in an efficient manner so that we continue to produce engines in the capacity and quality that is required.

I have learnt many new skills whilst also developing the ones I already had from previous engineering experience at school and college. I have gained knowledge on how advanced robotics systems are programmed and controlled and have experienced first-hand how they can be utilised to perform tasks far more accurately than any human could.

I thoroughly enjoy the programme and it has been a great learning experience as well as a great environment to work within. I feel I have progressed not only academically but personally. It has given me the confidence to step out of my comfort zone and tackle problems/issues in a professional and controlled manner that I did not think previously I would be capable of.

The organisation of the programme has been very good. The placements that you will experience are varied meaning that you get the opportunity to experience different job roles within the factory/working environment. This benefits the knowledge that you have gained at college whilst also reinforcing any knowledge gained within the workplace.

The support you receive from the BMW group is excellent. I’ve found that you can go to near enough anyone within the business to ask for advice or help with something, and they are often willing and open to helping you, even if it does not fall within their area of responsibility. They will often point you in the right direction. Additional support for any issues involving work or your personal life is available by contacting the human resources department.

The support received from the training provider is very good. Some of the college tutors are previous BMW employees or have extensive knowledge of industry or knowledge of how BMW conducts its work. I’ve found that many of the tutors will go above and beyond to help you out if you are struggling with any of the topics that are taught within the college.

The knowledge gained whilst working on your qualifications helps you perform whilst within the workplace. Knowledge I have gained from college is constantly used whilst working in my job role. The practical skills and knowledge of manufacturing procedures have been very useful when needing to make parts in house to fix machine temporarily whilst the correct part is found.

There are several opportunities for you to partake in extracurricular activities within the BMW group. This year I will be taking part in the mountain challenge, this event sees teams of 5-10 take part in orienteering and team building exercises designed to test your ability to work as a team. The team with the most point will receive a prize! There are also 5 a side football tournaments and motorsport events that can be attended.

Yes

I would recommend the BMW group to a friend because it is an excellent company to work for, I have learnt a lot and have gained industry standard qualifications in the process. It also has many benefits such as a company car scheme, which allows you to enjoy the products that you have a part in creating.

Advice I would give to anyone applying would be to talk about your engineering passions. If you’re interested in Formula one, touring cars or any other type of motorsport include that in your CV/cover letter. Any engineering passion should be talked about, and make sure this passion comes across both in your applications and in an interview if you get to that stage. It’s simply not good enough to say that you like cars when you’re asked why you want to work for BMW.