Structural Designer Review

Structural Designer in Brownfield sector of Oil and Gas industry. Projects include Enquest Knightsbridge and BG Caisson replacement. Day to day tasks are mainly working alongside Structural Engineers to produce practical solutions to engineering problems. Using 3D modelling program to produce workable design solutions and CAD drafting to produce working drawings.

Achieved a Diploma in Engineering Construction Design and Draughting at SCQF Level 6 on completion of the modern apprenticeship. Throughout the apprenticeship, courses attended included Rigging and Lifting, Welding Appreciation, Lathework, Introduction to Flange Types and Pressure Awareness and Cold Pipe Joining Methods. The apprenticeship also required Core Skills units to be completed such as Working with Others. Also completed courses on the design and draughting software used daily: PDMS Deign, PDMS Draft and AutoCAD and Offshore Survival Training. I've learned a great deal about my role and discipline (structural) within the company and also roles of other disciplines and how they all work together.

I've really enjoyed my experience so far, having gained another qualification in a relatively short time I'm proud of my achievements. Everyone I have worked with has been supportive throughout and continue to be.

Throughout my time with Amec Foster Wheeler I've had 3 development reviews where I was able to communicate with and get feedback from my line manager. I've also been promoted twice and so feel valued by the company having my hard work recognised. I have always felt as though I have a place within my team so long as I make myself heard.

The programme is as organised as you make it. You are in charge of how you go through it and there isn't a set time on how long things should take. Not all members of the individual project teams are aware of how the apprenticeship works having not completed it themselves but are supportive nonetheless. Tasks completed are project based and so it's work I would have been doing anyway.

I received a good amount of support from my tutor, he responded quickly to emails and any questions I had and was able to explain tasks and expectations to me well.

If I needed help or guidance throughout the programme I was able to ask and receive an answer.

I think my salary is good for an apprenticeship scheme and we received 6 monthly pay reviews during the programme.

Yes, the company is based within the city.

Yes

I have had a good experience so far.

Take time over any application, be yourself and be open to trying new things and being challenged. Always push yourself to achieve the goals you have set yourself and ask for help when you feel you are struggling or don't know what to do.