Undergraduate Civil Engineer Review

The undergraduate civil engineering role involved learning the role of a site engineer on a live project. Project work was located along a road and in the city centre and in part included constructing SUDS, implementing Dutch Kerbs and installing paving and my role was to survey and mark out locations of utilities and design elements, oversee the installation process, and suggest solutions to challenges as they arose.

New skills include: the use of total station, dumpy level and laser level, the importance of / how to properly set out and scan utilities using GPR drawings and Cat and Genny, writing up permits, and the use of AutoCAD LT software. Existing skills developed include more personal skills such as communication, leadership, confidence and teamwork.

Over the 12 weeks I did develop certain responsibilities and was trusted to go out and complete tasks solo. Work does differ and did require a couple of people to complete tasks so in other situations I would complete work while being overseen by a more experienced engineer.

The project team gave me constant support and continual guidance throughout my time on site. I felt I was in an environment that I could always develop my skills, questions would always be answered, and I could further my understanding of engineering and the project process.

The team had a fun atmosphere with lots of banter but also professional environment where getting the job done while supporting each other was of highest priority. The company is striving for higher safety standards on site along with always improving quality. Environmental impacts were addressed at every stage of the project along with the social impacts/benefits in the local area.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement - while not only having the opportunity the experience working on a live project and get a glimpse into what a future in the industry may look like, the skills I have gained will be useful to apply when back at university and I had fun learning in this environment.

Yes

Definitely a placement worth applying for! There are many different jobs and projects across the company so opportunities are endless. The 12 week placement is well set up and good support systems are in place. After completing this placement a future in the company is possible through a fast-track onto the grad scheme.