Research Analyst Review

My role is that of a Test Analyst. This involves writing test scripts and running tests on a variety of different kinds of programs and software. I have to interact with a large number of people in different teams, including developers, managers and end users. I am responsible for ensuring that I find and document as many defects (or bugs) as I can.

I have completed a Foundation in software testing qualification. I am also undertaking a Level 4 Data Analyst qualification. I have learnt how to code in two different languages (Structured query language and Python) and will shortly be learning r. This is on top of the large number of soft skills that I have developed by working day to day in the office.

The Bank itself is a great place to work, and everyone I have come into contact with has been professional, helpful and friendly. The work itself is challenging, but I am well supported by my managers and colleagues. It is not entirely what I expected as I had no comparison of what daily office work is like.

I feel very much valued within my department and internal teams. I have generally received recognition when I have performed to a high level (as well as constructive criticism when things haven't gone as well). Moreover, I have been involved in projects from day one, and participated to as high a level as my experience and knowledge allows me.

The induction lasted two days, and generally lacked a lot of content that would have been very helpful (whilst including a lot of useless information). The programme itself has had a minimal impact on my time here, as I have spent effectively all my time in my internal department. The programme was poorly advertised, leading to me not fully understanding the structure of the programme until the final interview.

I receive a large amount of support from my training provider (QA). I have meetings every few weeks with my tutor and line manager, and have email and phone contact with my tutor the rest of the time. Moreover, on my training providers internal system, there is the option to directly submit a message to the tutors. All in all, very effective.

I have supported very well by my line manager and team members. This has been supplemented by the 'buddy' system, comprised of former school leavers in my department. Support is very accessible as I am in contact with my manager and buddies effectively every day and have frequent catch up and progress meetings.

The base salary is 19 thousand pounds. Although, there is an additional 7% given in benefits (that turn into cash if not used) as well as a flexible pension that can potentially add another 6.5% to salary. The food here is subsidised, so my biggest expense is travel to and from work each day.

The bank has a large amount of internal events, talks, seminars and clubs. These often occur on a daily basis and often have esteemed guest speakers. The bank also has its own gym in the basement with subsidised membership fees. The bank also has a sports/leisure club in East London with very cheap fees.

Yes

For the reasons stated above. Flexible working hours, great work culture, large amounts of managerial support and training. The wages are also highly competitive for a school leavers programme.

Just make sure you relax. Also, it can't hurt to do some research regarding what the bank does and some basic background reading of any recent news regarding the bank.