Project Engineer Review

Manage suppliers and provide feedback on design proposals and solutions. Analyse costs/quotes for parts and assess value for money. Manage BoM (Bill of Materials) and ensure correct parts will be present on vehicle at different gateways/stages. Analyse and interrogate physical and CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) results of designs. Problem solving.

Currently studying Engineering related degree at reputable University. Learnt core functional skills in turning, welding, milling, fitting and engine dress while at College full-time. Learnt lots about managing suppliers, especially where suppliers may be from countries further afield. Managing programme related content and adhering to programme timing and expectations to ensure programme is successful.

Good opportunity to meet and network with new people. Many colleagues possess a lot of knowledge (often in different fields of engineering) that can help you learn more than just what is taught/learnt day-to-day. I enjoy aspects that are hands on, such as trialing and fitting parts on vehicles, and occasionally testing and driving products.

Clear path of what is to be achieved in the 6 years of the apprenticeship, what qualifications, when they are to be completed by, and what (if any) opportunities to reduce the length taken to achieve qualifications or manage the flexibility of them are available. Regular reviews and meetings with work-based learning Managers to assess development.

Support is good - management is understanding of the need to sometimes take time to do qualification work/assignments, however this is not a given. Not expected to work during week-release at University, however this is reciprocated upon returning by potentially catching up on work missed or ensuring deliverables will still be met during absence.

Both College and University highlight means of contacting and accessing support when working toward qualifications. In my opinion you have to actively look for the support when required, it is unlikely that either the College or University will actively seek to help you. Possible to obtain extensions and mitigating circumstances for pieces of work when needed.

I feel the qualifications help understand the background knowledge of the tasks carried out and gain an appreciation for some of the decisions you will be required to make on a daily basis. Despite this I would certainly say that more is learnt actually carrying out the role rather than what is learnt at the qualification providers.

This is definitely down to the friends you make with other apprentices and colleagues within your department as to what amount of extra-curricular things happen. Many departments will organise meals, sporting event, etc. that you can take part in. Apprentices tend to organise a lot of other events and parties which are good yahh.

Yes

Qualifications are good, well recognised, and from reputable organisations. Salary is very competitive and allows you to live and enjoyable yet not limited lifestyle while on the programme, and increases 6-monthly subject to progress. Oppotunity to learn a lot in the job role and ability to move around departments on placement to get a feel for what you enjoy most.

Understand the brand values, ethics and goals for the future. Have knowledge of previous, existing and future products, especially significant products (XJ220, E-Type, XKSS, F-Type, Defender, Range Rover & F-Pace). Be aware of challenges facing the company (Brexit, Dieselgate, declining China market). Have an engineering understanding of how cars work, and how future cars will differ.