Software Engineer Review

My role as a software engineer involved several tasks ranging from testing each software release, building new features, integrating software solutions and troubleshooting issues that clients may have experienced. I would work in accordance to the Scrum Agile methodology which involved daily stand-up meetings in the morning and would participate in sprint planning and sprint review sessions.

I have developed technical skills in scripting languages such as Bash, Python and PowerShell, as well as Ansible as an automation language. Git was used on an almost daily basis so I had developed a proficiency in using the Git command line and bettered my understanding of version control and Linux. In addition, I have gained a better understanding in more fundamental topics such as networking, server hardware and Kubernetes. Through presentations, demos and sprint meetings I had grown significantly in confidence and speaking whilst being encouraged to provide feedback for improvement.

From the beginning I was given the major responsibility of patching and testing future software releases on servers whilst debugging errors before releasing the live software to clients. Following my probation and training period, I was given significant responsibility to work on projects that would change the development of the software release cycle by trialling and building frameworks for newer technologies by adapting existing hardware for their use. I was also responsible for resolving and troubleshooting issues reported by clients and could travel to demonstrations of the company projects.

I was given support throughout from my peer mentor in the beginning and additionally seniors such as tech leads, architects and from my manager. Additionally there was extensive technical training provided by the company and I was encouraged to seek out other training opportunities that could be funded as well. In addition I had regular performance and check-up meetings with my line manager to discuss progress and issues.

Very positive as everyone was supportive of each other with a desire to do well and meet goals, whilst maintaining professionalism throughout. If problems did occur, there was no blame culture but rather a desire to identify solutions to problems.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement from a growth perspective as well as networking perspective. I was treated as a valued employee and given various important roles and responsibilities. Furthermore the training and support given by the company was key to growing my confidence and technical ability and hard work was always recognised and rewarded. I had been regularly challenged outside of my comfort zone allowing me to develop resiliency skills and had the opportunity to meet and network with people from various backgrounds.

Yes

Demonstrate enthusiasm on the assessment day, express confidence and do not be afraid to speak what's on your mind whilst having a positive mindset.