Design Engineer Review

A real insight into the nuclear industry. The job was challenging at times but as an engineer, I expected nothing less.

People around site are very friendly and always willing to help. Within my office it is always a good atmosphere.

Initially support was provided in plenty however has I gained experience I was expected to know more and more where as sometimes this was not the case. Occasionally peoples work loads meant that I was over looked, but generally I received the support I required.

At first I found I did not have much work to keep me busy, however as I've gained experience in my position in Design Engineering I also picked up more work and managed to keep a healthy balance.

I have been given the rights in order to do my job appropriately and the opportunity to prject manage some of the jobs I have been assigned to from cradle to grave. I thought this was a great opportunity even though it is not a job usually taken by people in my department. The amount of responsibility left me making decisions making sure work was being conducted as instructed.

I found over the last year my communication skills have improved immeasurably and I have gained an insight into the running of an industrial site and procedures within the nuclear industry. As I plan to join the EDF Energy graduate scheme this should help me on my way once I graduate.

The atmosphere was generally friendly and chatty. Workload left people often keeping their heads down however If you started a conversation people would join in.

Generally things have been organised very well and were largely flexible around my requirements. The only problem I have identified is that when I first moved to the area I was not given any help from within the company on finding accommodation - I have sugegsted this to my manager however and they are taking steps to improve this in future.

I have been on many training courses as part of EDF including Mechanical Engineering courses and Plant Appreciation courses. I have also been taught Safety Case Management skills and had a chance to apply these.

EDF offer all their placement students a place on the Graduate Scheme subject to an interview (Which I'm about to take!). Rumor has it that in general the majority of placement students are awarded a place on the graduate scheme. With a large number of the nuclear industry workforce nearing retirement age and the plans to build two new power stations, job prospects are looking good within EDF Energy.

The Placement Students and graduates are all very friendly. I have been encouraged to socialise by my line manager and introduced to the others. The Graduates on the graduate scheme are also often included, although they tend to move between different stations and head office every 6 weeks.

not quite London prices, but Coastal Suffolk (Sizewell B) is far from what I'm used to. EDF does have power stations further north and in the west country though.

Coastal Suffolk is mostly empty with not many young people. Closest place for a good night out is Ipswich (about 30 miles) unless you just fancy going to the pub.

There are always suggestions on the sports & social club pages of things to do. Other placement students and graduates have also been good fun outside of work.