Systems engineer Review
at BAE Systems
Placement (10 Months+)
Engineering
Chelmsford
Review Submitted: May 2025
Overall Rating
4.6 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
3.5/5
-
Support and Guidance
5/5
-
Company Culture
4/5
-
Overall Experience
5/5
-
Future Career Prospects
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis.
I develop trials analysis software, which means my work involves gathering and defining requirements, gaining a broad systems-level understanding, developing the software itself, and documenting processes in relevant technical materials. I work closely with my technical lead to create a software suite that captures all the desired functionality of this evolving system, while also working within the constraints imposed by other components.
Were you given much responsibility during your placement / internship?
Yes, I was given responsibility for the trials analysis suite, where I designed and implemented software to process and present test results in order to evaluate whether the overall system met client requirements and project expectations. Additionally, I worked on characterising the array, which involved hands-on use of the equipment independently. This demonstrated a significant level of trust in me and gave me a strong sense of responsibility and value within the team.
Please rate how meaningful the work you were doing was
5/5
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills, or developed your existing skills?
I have developed a deeper understanding of radar theory and gained greater confidence in communicating my work to both technical and non-technical audiences. This role has also required me to program in MATLAB—a tool I was previously unfamiliar with—through which I’ve significantly improved my ability to write scripts and develop technical system diagrams. Additionally, my approach to solving larger problems has evolved: I now begin by identifying constraints and breaking the problem down into well-defined functional blocks, each with clearly outlined requirements.
How would you rate the training provided during your experience?
5/5
How would you rate your development of industry-specific skills during the experience?
5/5
How would you rate your development of personal / soft skills during the experience?
5/5
Please rate how these skills have helped you in your career development
5/5
Support and Guidance
How much support and guidance did you receive during your placement / internship?
I received a great deal of support from my technical lead, who regularly called to help guide my work and assist in setting personal development goals. In addition to supporting me with day-to-day tasks, he also helped deepen my understanding of radar theory, logical reasoning, and key mathematical skills—areas he encouraged me to continue developing to succeed in this line of work.
How would you rate the support and guidance from your line manager?
2/5
How would you rate the support and guidance from the wider team?
5/5
Company Culture
What was the company culture and general atmosphere like?
The younger team members at my home site were close friends and incredibly welcoming to anyone new joining the company. We often went for walks together at lunch, and if someone encountered a problem, everyone was happy to help however they could. We also enjoyed social events outside of work, which were always great fun. In addition, I formed strong friendships with more experienced colleagues, who were always eager to share stories from their early days at the company and offer valuable advice. Everyone was genuinely kind, supportive, and committed to helping you succeed.
How would you rate the inclusiveness of the culture?
5/5
How would you rate the social opportunities?
5/5
How would you rate the diversity initiatives?
5/5
How would you rate the charity, sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives?
5/5
Overall Experience
To what extent did you enjoy your placement / internship?
Initially, I wasn’t fully satisfied with my placement due to a late site change, and I struggled to see where I fit within the structure that had been put in place. However, after expressing my concerns about my role and some of the decisions made, I was relocated to a site where I felt more comfortable and aligned with the business. I was also given opportunities that better matched the type of work I was passionate about, which made me feel truly valued. I’m incredibly grateful for my time at the company and excited to return to such a supportive, people-focused culture.
Please rate your level of enjoyment on your placement / internship
5/5
Please rate how your experience met your expectations
3/5
Future Career Prospects
Please rate the future employment prospects at BAE Systems
5/5
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?
Yes
What advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems
Don’t be afraid to speak up if you feel you’re not doing the kind of work you were hoping for. The business is large, and everyone genuinely wants you to succeed. By voicing your concerns early, you can access the support systems in place to help guide your experience in a more fulfilling direction. Asking for help is also incredibly important—while everyone is busy, they’re always willing to make time to support you if you’re struggling or need clarification. Finally, take every opportunity to get involved in stretch challenges and attend graduate events or socials. They’re a fantastic way to meet like-minded people and make the most of your time in the company.
