Cost Engineer Review

I am a Cost Engineer which involves doing ground up costings for various parts and comparing the costs to those quoted by the supplier. We then get involved in negotiations with the supplier to discuss cost gaps. As part of my job role I have to interact with suppliers, engineers and buyers which keeps it very interesting. We are also responsible for communicating cost information to the rest of the business via the different programme teams.

I have developed a number of skills during my time on the apprenticeship including confidence and organisation. I have undertaken a Foundation Degree which I completed with Distinction, a Cost Engineering Course with Cranfield University which I completed with Distinction and I am currently working towards completing my BEng in Applied Engineering at Warwick University.

I really enjoy my programme - although it can be quite hard work at times it is a very fulfilling role and I have worked with some great people as I have rotated through the business. The business has definitely met my expectations.

I feel extremely valued by JLR. They have supported me through each step of my development so far and each of the managers I have worked for have been very appreciative of the effort that I put in to my work. I have also been recognized for my excellence and invited to attend a number of high profile events on behalf of the business.

My programme has been mixed in terms of structure and organisation. The induction was poorly organised and didn't show off the potential I expected from a business like JLR. However I know that JLR are working on improving this first impression that they give to apprentices. The Foundation Degree at college was also badly organised however the degree programme has been well organised since. I have been well supported through the programme by my manager and work based learning manager and this has really saved the programme from what would have otherwise been terrible organisation. My manager has been brilliant at making sure that whilst I am in the workplace I have a well organised plan of what placement I should be on and the objectives for that section of the business.

Warwickshire College - very little support. Warwick University - excellent support via emails and the Moodle system.

I receive a lot of support from my manager and work based learning manager.

My salary meets my costs, however I live with my husband and we have 2 incomes which makes it much easier for us.

There are a number of company events that I have been invited to attned.

Yes

Because although the organisation can sometimes be questionable, it is being worked on all the time and the business as a whole is putting a great deal of focus on Apprentices which provides an excellent opportunity.

Work hard and show your passion for the business.