Test Engineer Review

On a day-to-day basis as an apprentice Test Engineer I am spending time learning how to use the safely use the test equipment, both manual and automated, and how to complete the necessary paperwork. This also includes learning how to diagnose and suggest fixes to issues. One day per week is spent working from home, attending online college.

Skills that I have developed include fault finding electronic circuits by finding the relevant diagrams and using test equipment at relevant test points to trace back to the source issue. I have also learnt how to act within a work environment and the sort of language that is necessary on unit paperwork.

When I am at work, I really enjoy what I am doing. Every day there is something for me to do, but not so much that I feel overly pressured and I can always ask to take a break from what I am doing to focus on my online college work.

For me personally, I am on an internal rotation within my workplace building, meaning that every 3 months I move to a different department, although they are all focused on hands-on engineering and manufacturing. The first months of the apprenticeship after starting in September slowly wound down to there being very little to do, however that all changed once I was on placement.

My employer has been very supportive in my apprenticeship, both before and after being on placement. My manager has been very helpful throughout this period which has allowed for an easy transfer to my placement, and my mentors so far have been incredibly supportive in helping me learn about the job.

Unfortunately, so far my online college with my company as a provider has not been great, with frequent technology issues, poor communication and too few teachers. For anyone that was in education during lockdown periods, the experience is exactly the same and it is a low point in my week. Thankfully, our feedback has been heard and we are experiencing changes to help mitigate these problems.

In terms of the standards that I am meant to be working to, my qualification has been helpful, however so far the actual content of my college learning has been absolutely and completely irrelevant to my role as a test engineer. Thankfully, the later modules in the course are electronic focused and this should balance out the earlier irrelevance.

Yes, I was part of a team that organised an environmental event that provided valuable insight into the more managerial side of the company (organisation, safety precautions, funding, research, development) and also allowed for me to meet and get to know people that I would never be able to otherwise.

Yes

I have found it to be a fantastic company that has a great atmosphere and huge potential for a career for life. Already I have had my salary increase substantially and being able to invest shares in the company sets me up for the future when I look towards buying my own house.

I would advise someone applying to BAE Systems to obviously do your best in school to pass the entry requirement, but to also ensure that you branch out and develop then focus on extra-curricular activities or clubs that will help show who you are as a person, because ultimately in your interview this will play a significant role in deciding if you are who they want for the job.