CAD Technician Review

I am currently working on a large project that is made up of many different drawing packs, each pack is for a different phase of work. I work on the CAD drawings using software such as MircoStation Connect and Power InRoads. The drawings have a combination of 2D and 3D models which all work together to show what is required. Some days I will be working on the models and others I will be working on drawing composition.

Before working at Arup I had never used any CAD packages. I now use them daily, mostly working with MicroStation but also using AutoCAD and Civil 3D at times. Whilst composing models and drawings, there is an emphasis on quality assurance to make sure they are made to a good standard.

I enjoy what I do at work, I find the modelling interesting as it makes me think and engages my brain. I enjoy getting to see the end product once everything has been put into a drawing sheet. As part of my programme, I attend college once a week - which can be very stressful with deadlines and assignments.

The programme is well organised, I have regular meetings with my manager and training provider. When meeting with my training provider, we have catch ups about where I am up to with my End Point Assessment evidence portfolio as well as going through some learning activities and lessons which help me fill out my portfolio.

Arup offers plenty of support. This may come from your team or from the wider Arup. When I want support I know I can go to anyone from my team or office as everyone who works there is so friendly and willing to help. I know I can ask my questions without having judgment.

My training provider gives me lessons which help me gain knowledge, skills, and behaviours that I need to demonstrate for my EPA in front of the Institution of Civil Engineers. I have meetings with my training provider every six weeks, however communication between our sessions is limited.

My qualification has given me more knowledge about subjects I previously knew nothing or little about. I now know more about health and safety, codes, and standards, which can be applied to almost everything I do in my day to day work. This helps me perform better in my role as I know more about why we do things, rather than just doing them mindlessly.

Arup has many different extra-curricular activities. I get myself involved in the running club as that is something I enjoy doing but there are many different clubs such as climbing, and games clubs which are also popular. Every month after pay day we do venue of the month, where the whole office is invited to go to different pubs.

Yes

Everyone is friendly and helps when you have any questions. Arup is involved in many projects varying in scale and scope, it is nice to work on a combination of large and smaller scale jobs as it gives some variety in the type of work that I do. Sustainability is also a large focus for Arup and I enjoy working for a company that is conscious about their impact on the environment.

Before applying, do some research on the company culture, values, and projects. This preparation should give you some key areas to discuss during any interviews and should stand out. A lot of what Arup does focuses on sustainability, they are very conscious about their impact on the environment - this is something else you may want to research.