Product Development Engineer Review

Product Development engineer within Body Engineering. Working at an early program phase to deliver intelligent CAD models to aid in the speed and robustness of the parts. Main interactions between own delivery team and the recipient of the models. Responsible for model definition and planning, build and delivery, pilot testing, and mentor-ship of 4 other apprentices.

Basic engineering knowledge (PEOS), FD Applied Engineering, BEng Applied Engineering (half way through). Job role specific courses for Catia V5 and V6 (CAD Software), company standards and working procedures. Improved interpersonal, presentation and project management skills. Currently taking part in mentor training.

The work and team environment is average, depending on location. The job role is not the most exciting, and some company based processes and working practices make things more difficult than they should be.

Appreciation and value from senior manager and certain people is clear, along with those I have worked for on placement.

Organisation appears to be improving over the past year or so, original induction 4 years ago was not well organised. Organisation and quality of college and university delivered program is not up to standard. Regular reviews with mentor are in place, and tasks are delegated and organised in work as with any member of the team.

Have not required support from college or university. The personal tutor system at university ensures there is someone to go to with any issues, and all subject tutors can be reached via email if required, but replies can take a long time and are often unclear from my experience.

Regular manager reviews are set up but generally do not happen due to busy schedule. Support is available if sought. Team members are more than happy to provide help and support with queries.

Salary package is good, but could always be more! Remote location means travelling is a must, just over 40 miles per day. Currently lift sharing to reduce these costs. Food on site is expensive.

Company/CSR events are pushed as part of the apprenticeship. Our team does an annual CSR event within the local community. Gym on site which I use daily. Don't get involved with other external activities.

Yes

Depending on interests and what you wish to do, there are a range of roles available. Competitive salary package. Company is growing well so offers a secure place to work, and is well recognised within the industry.

Think about body language and making eye contact - consider how you present yourself to others. The harder you push yourself the further you will go and the greater the level of opportunities.