Electrical Engineer Annual Placement Review

My responsibilities involve a blend of hands-on site work, project management, technical oversight, and procurement. On a day-to-day basis, I mainly go on site (based in the Sinter Plant) alongside other engineers to address and resolve any breakdowns or maintenance issues that arise. During planned maintenance shutdowns, I identify and fix faults on-site, ensuring everything is back in optimal working order.
In addition to my day-to-day duties, I am entrusted with managing projects related to new and upgraded installations from start to finish. This responsibility includes interpreting and editing electrical wiring diagrams, coordinating with external contractors, and overseeing the wiring of electrical systems. I am also involved in costing and budgeting for these projects, ensuring they are completed within financial constraints.
My responsibilities also extend to coordinating with external contractors for specialised tasks, such as cable repairs, which are typically scheduled during these planned shutdowns. I ensure that these operations are conducted smoothly and meet the necessary standards.
In addition to this, I am responsible for performing precise calibrations, such as thermocouple calibration and the calibration of weighing systems, which are critical to maintaining accurate and reliable plant operations.
Daily, I utilise HMI and SCADA systems to monitor and assess the plant's operational status, ensuring that all processes are functioning as expected. Furthermore, I work with PLCs, where I occasionally add or modify ladder logic as needed to enhance system performance or troubleshoot issues.
A significant part of my role involves ordering new and spare parts necessary for plant installations and maintenance. I ensure that all required components are available when needed, minimising downtime.

During my placement, I was entrusted with a significant amount of responsibility, particularly in managing interactions with external contractors during system installations and addressing breakdowns. My role involved obtaining and evaluating quotes from contractors to ensure the best fit for our needs, taking both cost and budget into account. I was responsible for scheduling contractors for specific workdays and ensuring they had all the necessary paperwork to complete their tasks efficiently and safely.
In addition to these duties, I was given the responsibility to lead key projects. One notable project was the installation of a new oil cooler system at the Sinter Plant. I co-led this project alongside my manager, overseeing the integration of the new system into the plant. My responsibilities included creating and modifying wiring diagrams, collaborating with both internal teams and external contractors, developing new PLC code to control the system, and managing the project’s costing and budgeting aspects.

During my placement, I have acquired a wide range of new skills. One of the most important skills I've honed is effective communication, particularly with other engineers. I've learned how to engage in technical discussions, which has enabled me to collaborate efficiently and develop solutions to various challenges on the plant.
In addition to enhancing my communication skills, I have also gained valuable technical skills. This includes wiring and programming PLCs, performing electrical system wiring, and reading and interpreting electrical wiring diagrams. I've developed strong fault-finding abilities and proficiency in the calibration of instrumentation and control systems, which are essential for maintaining the plant's operational integrity.
Moreover, I've cultivated several soft skills. These include managerial skills, where I've learned to oversee tasks and coordinate with others, and teamwork, which has allowed me to work effectively within a collaborative setting.

During my placement, I received a balanced amount of support and guidance that allowed me to grow both independently and collaboratively. My supervisors and colleagues were always available to provide assistance when needed, offering valuable insights and feedback on complex tasks. At the same time, I was given the autonomy to take the lead on various projects and make decisions, which helped me develop my problem-solving skills and confidence in my abilities. Whenever I needed assistance, I was able to get it immediately by reaching out to my line manager or any of my colleagues. They were always approachable and ready to help, providing me with the guidance I needed to overcome challenges and complete my tasks effectively.

The company culture and general atmosphere were welcoming and collaborative. From day one, I felt included and supported by my colleagues, who were always willing to share their knowledge and assist when needed. The environment was professional yet friendly, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and open communication. This culture fostered a sense of belonging and encouraged continuous learning, making it a positive and motivating place to work. The company’s commitment to both personal and professional development was evident, creating an atmosphere where everyone felt valued on the plant.
Toward the end of my placement, the general atmosphere understandably decreased following the announcement of the plant’s closure. However, despite this challenging news, there was a strong sense of togetherness among the team. Everyone made a conscious effort to support and encourage each other, focusing on staying positive and continuing to work diligently to keep the plant running smoothly.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement, finding it both rewarding and enriching. The opportunity to work on diverse projects, take on significant responsibilities, and collaborate with skilled professionals made the experience highly fulfilling. I appreciated the balance between technical challenges and hands-on learning, which kept me engaged and motivated throughout. Even during the more challenging periods, such as the plant closure announcement, the strong team spirit and supportive environment made the placement enjoyable. Overall, it was a valuable experience that greatly contributed to my professional growth.

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