Substation Engineer Review

by National Grid

Rating

8.1/10

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

The role is split between three locations. At the Training Centre in Eakring, Nottinghamshire, we take part in a variety of training sessions. At Aston Uni we complete a foundation degree in Electrical Power Engineering, and on site we help complete work on the substations.

9/10

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

The main new skill I have developed is communication skills. I now have the confidence to frequently speak to managers and team leaders, something that I would have struggled with before National Grid. Furthermore, my organisation and time management skills have improved due to the quantity of work.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

The programme is difficult. However i enjoy the fact it creates the perfect environment for being financially rewarded for hard work.

8/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is well structured with regards to the training centre and the uni course. However we have to book ourselfs onto our jobs in substations which can be difficult and time consuming.

7/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive a good amount of a support however often the outcome of the support is to work more hours to complete a task.

9/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

You receive plenty of support from Aston Uni as long as you are willing to work hard. similar situation applies to National Grid as a training provider as a whole.

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

The Foundation Degree is mostly relevant however it it is sometimes hard to see the application of some of the topics. This being said, the degree as a whole gives a better understanding of the operation of the power network.

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There is a football pitch, mountain bikes, fishing pond and a bar at the training centre. However on site there is not a great deal of extra-curricular activities.

7/10

9a. Would you recommend National Grid to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

It is good to get your foot in the door in such a large company with so many opportunities

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

Be sure you can handle long days of work and you are capable organsising your lifestyle efficiently