Product Engineer Review

A clear project defined at the start, with lots of help available, and much more work is available to do if you want to seek it out. On a short placement the only trouble is that there is not enough time to be trained up for some of the more complicated problems, though this was entirely understandable.

Whether it was working on the overall project, or helping with simple data analysis, my colleagues always made me feel like I was really contributing to the team, and making their lives easier - we shared jokes and drinks and the whole atmosphere was wonderful.

There was always available support - if the manager was not available, the other team members were all well informed, kind, and highly knowledgable.

In general, there was lots to do, and even responsible roles, such as client meetings etc. Occasionally the work would be a bit slow, though often just from unavoidable circumstances.

As there was a project leader, I was often having my work checked before delivery, though I did have frequent contact with clients and suppliers, being personally responsible for arranging meetings with companies from all over the globe.

The skills I learnt about project management and other general areas have already been useful with other employers since the internship, and simple time management is always handy. Whilst there was not much relevant to my degree, I expected this going in, so was extremely happy with the other skills I developed.

The open plan office gave a really friendly and inclusive feeling to the work day. There was ample opportunity for collaborative conversation, and even friendly office competitions that got everyone together.

There was clear direction from start to finish, and a helpful review process to document progress, with regular meetings available with the manager to ask any questions.

Several online courses made the job-related content easy to learn, and many external courses were also available. The employee learning scheme which provides £200 towards an extracurricular course of your choice (ranging from dancing to rally driving) was a fantastic boost as well.

I have been offered to return on another placement/graduate scheme and fully intend to take the offer!

There were plenty of welcome events and a central accommodation recommended by the company, meaning that we could all easily arrange travel and nights out, whilst actually living with colleagues stationed in various departments within the company.

Easy access to lots of bars and restaurants, with affordable accommodation and travel available as well.

I have been told the nightlife is good, though did not experience it first hand other than a few choice pubs, which were excellent.

The team themselves organised activities outside work, as well as a work sports day/bbq. The other interns also set-up lots of events, including a weekly 5-a-side football night.