Network Test Engineer Review

I test CPE VDSL equipment within the NGA platform to check conformity to the VDSL frequency band plan. This is includes specialised adhoc work alongside MCT (Modem conformance testing). This is important to the Openreach physical network to prevent unwanted frequencies causing outages and impacting field engineers ability to fault.

I previously worked as a field engineer working within the Openreach physical network on predominantly Copper & FTTC (Fibre to the premises) technology. I have since used this experience in my new role which I can adapt the skills I learnt within the field environment. I have taken on a new job which utilises these skills to a higher level.

I have now completed my apprenticeship programme and achieved all relevant criteria, I very much enjoyed the apprenticeship programme which lasted 2 1/2 years. The work to study balance was great and this also included a monthly study day to allow my IV to check my work and track my progress.

The structure of the apprenticeship was very well organised by Openreach, I knew where I had to be and what I had to do to achieve set goals by set times. This helped with milestones in my apprenticeship and allowed healthy competition amongst peers. I met all milestones set by my IV with the structure in place.

My employer was very supportive throughout my apprenticeship programme and would help where required to give me extra time to achieve the previously mentioned milestones if we were at risk of falling behind, as I also stated, this meant I achieved my apprenticeship in good time and with some time to spare.

Support from my training provider was very good. They gave me constructive feedback when my work required light tweaks and would also not provide feedback if work wasn't quite up to the standard they expected which was helpful in its own way. It spurred me on to make sign off the first time work was submitted.

Having moved on from my initial job role I was doing whilst I was an apprentice, I have now moved in to a new role which relates to things that previously didn't within my old job role. For example, the OSI Layers and their role within BT Group & Openreach. I now work on multiple layers.

These activities do exist and we have a notice board which implores people to come join up. We also have a gym onsite which is well used by employees on site. I also took part in a football tournament during my apprenticeship which was set up by Openreach for employees.

Yes

I have previously recommended Openreach to friends and family. Some of which now currently work for the company. I'm also approached regularly for information about Openreach and what, as a company, they are like to work for. Often after I've talked about Openreach, my friends will apply on that basis.

Don't be put off because you're in no way engaged in IT or Telecoms, nor do you have an experience. On the job training alongside the apprenticeship and enthusiasm to learn is all you need. The apprenticeship helps guide you through the whole learning process and is very helpful to integrating you in to Openreach and providing value.