Trainee engineer Review

I am responsible for fault finding, repairing and installing customer telephone lines to enable them to make calls and access the internet. It can be a full brand new line, including all the cable to the property, or it can be switching from one service provider to another. The role is incredibly varied.

Most of the skills I currently use for my role are all brand new to me, so I have learnt many new skills. Prior to joining I had barely even climbed a ladder before, now I am climbing poles everyday and finding and rectifying faults along using tools I previously never knew existed.

I enjoy it very much. I have been taught many new skills which is giving me the confidence to become an accomplished engineer. I feel I have a certain amount of freedom in my role, where I am trusted to managed my day how I see fit more or less, and it feels nice to be liberated in this way.

The structure of the programme is very clear. I have 10 sessions booked in which are days off the tools in order to complete the work required for my NVQ. On my induction week we also met with the NVQ assessors who advised us of the next stages and what we needed to do to complete the NVQ

Support is there whenever we need it from my employer. All the existing engineers I have ever spoken to are keen to assist in anyway they can, and my new manager is very good with assisting with any issues which come up. I have full confidence that I will receive support anytime I need it

As of this stage I have not received any support but that’s purely because I’ve only really just begun the journey after starting in January. The 10 NVQ day sessions have been booked in, beginning in June and I have every confidence that I will receive any support which is required

I’m not sure the qualification actually does help me perform better in my role if I’m honest. I guess with it being accredited it does keep Openreach on their toes with providing up to date and relevant training though. However, as I haven’t had any of my 10 sessions yet this is too early to tell.

In regards to extra curricular activities, I have not been made aware of any at this time. That doesn’t mean to say they don’t happen, it’s jusy I do not know or any. However, networking is naturally quite easy in the role as simply calling for an assist makes a connection.

Yes

I think it genuinely is a great job and as someone who gets bored quite easily, I just don’t think that would be possible in this role as you’re always kept on your toes. Everyday I encounter something new and have to use my brain to work out the issue. I can’t see why anyone wouldn’t enjoy that.

Just be yourself. I’m a little out there and I presented myself exactly how I am and got in. I also wouldn’t be put off if you don’t know what exactly Openreach does. If you are open to learning, don’t mind heights and spiders a well a getting a little wet and cold every so often, go for it!