ICA Technician Review
at Thames Water
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Engineering
Beckton
Review Submitted: May 2023
Overall Rating
3.9 /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!
4.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.2/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
Instrumentation engineer that shadows lead engineers. programming and calibrating equipment on a sewage treatment site. This involves looking at equipment such as PLC, Level heads, Ultra sonics and sensors. We carry out reactive and planned preventative maintenance to ensure the site is running effectively and to minimise any break downs from happening.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I really enjoy the programme because it covers some of my favourite subjects, engineering and also really gets me thinking. Every day I am learning new things on the job and I like the fact that it is not only theory based but I can get hands on and do some practical work.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
Yes I have learnt a lot. I have learned a wide range of new skills as an instrumentation control and automation engineer. Such as knowing how to read and use programmes such as SCADA, RS Ladder logics and how to code equipment such as allen bradley PLCS. I know how to install control equipment like level heads.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
I found that because I am the first year doing the up skilling programme through the new supplier it is not organised very well as they are still finding their feet and my employer also finds it hard to find time for me do my learning and working at the same time.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My employer is very supportive with my learning as they have provided me with all the equipment that I am needed to carry out the job. They also allow me to go to different locations within the company to get exactly the jobs I need to complete the up skilling.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
The training provider is good at replying to my calls and contact however, they have not been very helpful with the fact that I was struggling to get time at my work to get out and do shadowing and follow my mentor to understand the role more. I wish I had more exposure.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
My qualification helps me to perform better in my role by giving me all the knowledge and power to be able to fix job by myself and at a much quicker speed. It has also helped me educate others on certain types of equipment based at my site that they might not know about.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
Yes there are a lot of extra activities and social events such as Christmas parties and group bonding. We also do things such as understanding stress courses to help us outside of work. I do think it could be better and we could do more activities as a group such as trips away.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Thames Water to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It is a well known company with a good reputation. It also has a sites all over London and the home counties. The broad range of equipment and knowledge within the company can set you up for life. It also has good benefits such as a good pension and good holiday packages.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Thames Water?
Try your hardest and make sure you prepare. Plan and do research about the company and write down why you would want to apply for the job. I would also say don't give up on the first attempt.
