Electrical Engineer Review

I am an 'Assistant Electrical Technician'. On the road to becoming an electrical engineer. I typically work 9:00-5:30 but at Arup we have flexible hours so this can vary depending if I have something on. I work on a range of electrical packages such as lighting calculations, small power designs, containment routing among other building services.

I have learned a multitude of skills. Both technical such as how to design a range of electrical packages using software whilst also a range of people skills. I have learned how to deal with tricky clients and contractors to achieve a desired goal. My confidence has grown immensely since starting my apprenticeship 5 years ago.

I am a big fan of my apprenticeship. The people I work with are all friendly and extremely happy to help if I ever need it. I am able to work from home 2 days a week, have my university degree paid for and learn a lot of electrical knowledge on the job.

I have found the structure of my apprenticeship excellent. In my first 2 years I studied a level 3 extended diploma in Electrical & Electronic engineering. I completed then went straight to University to study electrical engineering. This degree is 5 years (as opposed to 3) as I study 2 days a week and work the other 3 days.

Overall y level of support is exceptional. For both my studies and work related support. I get a number of days off each year for revision for my exams and in work my colleagues are all very keen to help if I ever have any work related quires which I must say is often.

I study for my degree at the University of South Wales (USW). Overall I have had a pleasant experience. My course is 5 years so my classes change ever other year or so. I have bi-monthly check ins with the university with my boss to ensure both studies and work are going smoothly.

Due to the nature of my job, the electrical engineering degree does not really have that muck transferable knowledge. The degree mainly focuses on electronic engineering as opposed to building services. My qualification teaches me the fundamental knowledge of electrical engineering, but does not really benefit my ability to do my job well.

Arup puts a major emphasis on extra curricular activitiues. We have a whole office social after every pay day which included free drinks and food. They also have lots of sports teams such as football, cricket and touch rugby to name a few. Arup also have a football tour every year where an office in Europe host. I've been to Cork (Ireland) in 2019 and next Copenhagen is coming up (2024).

Yes

Arup has a clear structure in place for apprenticeships to achieve both technical knowledge of the job and qualifications. They are understanding that apprentices do not have all the knowledge at the start of their careers and do not expect you to know everything. They allow for mistakes to be made and learned from.

Be authentic. Each candidate that go's for an interview at Arup are vetted to ensure they are the fit fit for the team. Id say you have to be friendly, enthusiastic to learn and generally a nice person to get a job there. Do some research about Arup as a company prior to any interview.