Cost Engineer Review

I am a Higher Apprentice within the Cost Engineering department. Mainly, our job is to ensure we are getting value for money on components from our suppliers. Within our department, we produce should costs for components using cost estimating software. We regularly visit suppliers to understand the manufacturing process in which our components are produced. This means we interact with people both internally and externally to JLR.

Currently in our first two years, we attend college (full time in the first year and day release in the second year) and are working towards a Foundation Degree in Engineering and a NVQ level 3 in Performing Engineering Operations. Following this, we will attend the University of Warwick to study towards an Engineering degree. Within the workplace, we have undertaken several courses to improve and broaden our knowledge such as the Principles of Engineering online course set by Cranfield University, an Injection Moulding: First Principles course and a Polymer Industry Foundation Course

The Higher Apprenticeship Programme has been thoroughly enjoyable. The exposure to the real working environment where I can put what I've learnt into practice allows me further my knowledge and experience within the department. There are 8 other apprentices currently in my department and another 4 joining with the most recent intake and it's good to be able to have others in the same situation as you. The cost engineers within the department are always willing to help with any problems we may have and share their personal experiences with us.

Within Cost Engineering, the nine apprentices are all given individual work to do that actually contributes towards the business. We have regular meetings with both our Apprentice Manager and Industry Training Managers along with regular 1 to 1s with our mentors.

As the Higher Apprenticeship programme is relatively new to Jaguar Land Rover, thee have been some issues with regards to College. However, once in plant, the organisation and structure of the department is of a high level and we have an Apprentice Placement Plan which enables all apprentices to know their plan for the 6 year apprenticeship with regards to what department we will be in.

As I am in plant four days a week, we rarely receive support from the college itself. However, our ITMs are our link with them and regular meetings allow us to voice any concerns to them.

Within the Cost Engineering department, support is available as and when you need it as fellow Cost Engineers are happy to help you out. Training courses allow us to develop certain areas in which we may require some support.

The salary offered by the Higher Apprenticeship is extremely competitive, starting at £16,000 and ending at £32,000 after the six years, if you meet your performance criteria. Training and qualification costs are all paid for by JLR, which is a huge incentive to do well to further your own development and give something back to the company after they've invested heavily in each of us. I complete a 100 mile round trip each day to attend work/college so my petrol costs are relatively high compared to a lot of others I work with who live closer. However, my salary more than covers my travel and social costs and allows me to save regularly too.

Apprentices are required to take part in CSR events where we talk to local schools and organisations about our apprenticeship scheme and the company. Departments also get involved in community projects and we have an Employee Learning Scheme which gives us £200 each year to participate in activities that will improve skills such as team building.

Yes

Jaguar Land Rover is a company rapidly growing and evolving within the automotive industry and it's a great time to join the company. JLR continues to invest in the UK, in both personnel and suppliers, as well as abroad, expanding to new markets across the globe. For me particularly, the ability to earn an Engineering degree whilst gaining experience within the role is a great opportunity that others should not pass up if they have the chance.

Prior to applying, I would advise applicants to try and get some work experience with JLR as this will help gain more practical experience and an idea into the role. Show that you're passionate about joining the company during the interview process and show your individuality and what sets you apart from other applicants.