Power Network Engineer Review

Receive a job from a client looking to connect to our existing network and look at the options, calculations and if it is viable to give the customer the required power. A wide range of software to be utilised in order to carry out the work and if there is no capacity then work out the best way to help the customer.

Developed further the use of standard computer packages such as office. Presenting and writing reports in a professional manner. New internal software which i had no previous knowledge to and a greater understanding of the electricity network in our region, how it works and the policy's that come with it.

I really enjoy the work aspect of my programme. The people and trainers are fantastic and patient when teaching or helping with any tasks. The team i am working with have a vast amount of knowledge and are very friendly. The company itself has tremendous values and strive to lead and innovate in our field as we push towards net zero. The company exceeds expectation and i enjoy it.

The programme as a whole is well organised but due to this being the first year of the programme it has hit some common problems with schedule changes from the college as an example. SSE has been excellent to work around studies and hold regular reviews and sessions about things that can be improved. The tasks to start with were slow coming but once you gather the understanding it is very rewarding.

The support from my employer is endless. Every two weeks we have review meetings regarding any issues experienced when away with college, we have reviews in the office regarding progress and any concerns that we may have or things to change/do better. Nothing is a problem and everyone helps each other. No issues with HR or any other support staff.

The support from the lecturers is good they make sure you understand the content of what they are teaching and don't just rush through to get to the assignments. The support from the advisor for the apprenticeships is poor. Can't get a hold of him or doesn't reply to emails. I enjoy it because the lecturers make it easy to understand and the lectures fun.

I don't feel the apprenticeship will help in a day to day basis as it is more of a general overview of lots of different things. Some of the content covered in the apprenticeship has no relevance at all to the job. The theory that was learnt in the lectures that are relevant has been good to get an understanding of electrical components, concepts and the way things work out in the real world. I do feel i know more about the industry from the training provided. The understanding of systems and machines is valuable to transfer to work.

The team i work in does have some social events but not too often that they happen every month. The company has an in house social page where things get posted about what is going on in different locations so there will be a lot to do. Personally i like to go for countryside walks and exploring when not working. Starting this apprenticeship with a group of other people helped as we often will do social activities and plan on starting a sport together.

Yes

I would recommend SSE to a friend because it has the feeling of a close knit company. The staff, managers and support teams are excellent in making you feel welcome and helping with any training or issues you may have. The incentives as an employee are great and give you that craved work/life balance. An excellent company to work for with a clear progression route and what is expected of you.

The application process can be time consuming with filling in the details and carrying out some tasks but this is so worth it for the end goal. The interview is fairly relaxed but i would still do a bit of homework and have some answers to general questions. The interviewers are friendly and should make you relaxed so be yourself, friendly and engaging. The onboarding process is great, SSE make it easy to understand and make you feel at home straight away. Most people in my team have different experiences and had different opportunities so express yourself and state what you're proud of and what you have achieved. I would have like to have known to apply to SSE sooner.