System Design Engineer Review

System design engineer. A varied role, which included things such as generating requirements for systems, conducting parametric studies to assess suitability, assessing legacy technology and its usages, collaborating with other departments to gain insight into their work. Constant daily interaction with my internal team, despite working from home, as well as contact with wider departments to aid one another. Responsibility for tasks within a larger overall task, with constant feedback to improve.

I have developed soft skills such as organisation, team-work, public speaking, etc. I have also learnt a lot regarding the defence industry, including competitors, technologies and job opportunities. I have learnt how to use industry standard software, along with developing the ability to be depended upon to carry out work to a high standard. I have spoken to other departments about their technologies, and have a good overall understanding of missile concepts.

I was given just the right amount of responsibility. I had responsibility of my tasks, which fed into larger overall tasks that were crucial for the team to deliver. However, I had constant support and help meaning that I never felt overwhelmed with the importance of tasks. It was my responsibility to reach out to those who I needed to speak to from across the company for technical insight and expertise.

Both of my line managers were always available to help, and always made an effort to fit me into their schedule. I was also assigned a buddy who was a second-year graduate, who I could speak to about more personal things than my line manager. I also made good friends within my departments with colleagues who offered support where necessary. I also had a technical coordinator, who helped me with more general placement things.

Unfortunately, COVID meant that the on-site presence was less than typical. However, MBDA encouraged participation in STEM outreach events, as well as a range of social groups and initiatives to take part in. There were on-site sporting events when allowed throughout the year, which were very inclusive and recommended.

I loved my placement. I learned a lot and genuinely enjoyed working for MBDA. It surpassed my expectations, and I am due to return for a Summer Placement in between my third and fourth years of study. I was never made to feel unworthy, or assigned menial tasks, and everything I did felt like it had real value and meaning to the team.

Yes

Try not to worry too much about the assessment centre, just be yourself and share your ideas with your peers - communication is a very valued skill. Do research into the company and try to get this across in your application. The company is extremely diverse, both in terms of personnel and workload, so there is definitely a department/placement that you will enjoy, just look into the jobs and see what interests you.