Test Engineer Review

On a day to day basis I will be on client site, working with others in my team (mainly offshore people) to write test scripts, execute tests, report defects and write daily progress reports. I also frequently attend Defect Review Board calls, which I sometimes chair, to discuss with third party suppliers and clients the severity of defects and the ETA of their resolutions.

I have developed all the key testing skills such as writing test scripts, improving my ability to evaluate risks to the client based upon a particular level of testing, execution of tests and using project management tools Jira and TeamForge. Beyond this, I have learned the jargon and also become more proficient in managing permissions in a variety of tools.

I enjoy my program a lot. The cohort of apprentices that I am a part of are all extremely friendly and helpful. This really aids in the work-life balance as it allows for some crossover which is very helpful when we commit time to study outside of our full time working hours. Only downside is that I get a lot of downtime due to the nature of my work.

The recruitment process did not seem very organised as it was all very last minute. However, the program itself is very well organised and we know all dates far in advance for deadlines and on campus days etc. Only downside is that the rest of the business seem to be unaware of on campus commitments and organise Junior Talent events elsewhere on the same dates.

Plenty of support. I'm regularly asked by reviewers and buddies etc how I am coping with uni work and how I am finding everything. We are encouraged to express a need for help if necessary. We also get 22 study days which aids greatly with staying on top of the degree work.

Plenty, we have opportunities to ask questions for each module weekly as well as via email if it cannot wait. Some of the module assistants are more helpful than others but we do have plenty of contact hours to utilise in order to assist us in our studies. Some work is not marked in a timely fashion however.

I feel that my degree allows me to develop a more well rounded knowledge of technology and computer systems which is extremely helpful for a testing professional. Certain parts of my degree i.e, the professional practice module also allow me to develop public speaking and the ability to reflect upon myself and have a deeper level of self awareness. These are key to being a successful IT professional and allow me to have more confidence in myself within my job role.

There are for people who are based out of the popular Capgemini offices, i.e, Holborn or Telford. Aside from this, if you are based on client sides there are not any sports teams etc. You will however receive invites to professional network events (although these may be hard to get to). Busy projects will frequently have many people going to dinner though which allows for socialising. The apprenticeship cohort also allows for socialising.

Yes

Capgemini invest in their Junior Talent and truly prioritise the career development of apprentices. Capgemini also place a focus on work life balance, which means it feels like a much safer space to bring up work life balance issues that you may be experiencing due to staying away from home etc. Capgemini also place a big focus on diversity and active inclusion which is highly desirable in an employer

Be yourself, be bold and communicate your thoughts well. Look at Capgemini's core values and consider how you align with these qualities. Ensure your problem solving skills are good, as no matter the role, these are essential in an IT environment. Having an excellent CV is also very advantageous.