Apprentice Civil Engineer Review

by Costain

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

6.6/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

Civil Engineer - M1 Smart motorways project Site surveying, marking out and setting out locations for overhead gantries. The uses tools such as a GPS,Total Station and dumpy level. Working with different gangs daily, From piling teams to chippys. As well as doing this on site back in the office i have to produce permits, WASPS, and start of shift briefings. I am responsible for completing AS-Built information using the equipment listed above. But i also help the structures team to complete any tasks at hand.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

Currently studying level 5 HND in construction management and sustainability, previous to this i completed a level 3 NVQ and diploma with costain. This training has helped me to understand a lot of outside of my role which i would not have usually considered, broadening my knowledge of the construction industry and the roles and responsibilities of others.

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

When i first joined costain i did not enjoy my day to day work as there was not much that i could do. However now that i have developed both my professional skills and my confidence, i am finding work a lot more enjoyable and rewarding.

7/10

4. How valued do you feel by Costain?

My team highly values its members, i feel fully appreciated and acknowledged for the work that i perform.

9/10

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Organisation is a huge issue, just this year i was supposed to be attending a college in Nottingham just 15 miles from my house. I now have to travel 140 miles to a college in Slough and stay away from home in a travelodge/holiday inn for two weeks every couple of months. Which i personally do not like...

1/10

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

Early days however so far support from my college tutors has been great.

7/10

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

If there are ever any issues my team is always there to help. Everyone is always polite and willing to help.

8/10

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

Now that i am on a level 5 HND the salary is well above any other apprenticeships in my area (Derbyshire). at just over £21,000 a year including travel allowance, which is very good at just 18 years of age.

9/10

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

Not that i am aware of, there is not any events outside work other than a football meet up each week.

2/10

9. Would you recommend Costain to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I would get paid if the person joined as it saves hiring costs... and it is a very good company to work for with many different areas of work.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Costain?

Before coming to costain i would make sure you have some experienced with whichever project you want to join. As it may take you longer to understand why some things are done how they are.