Degree Civil Engineer Apprentice Review
at Mott MacDonald
Degree Apprenticeship
Civil Engineering
Birmingham
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.9 /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!
5/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.8/5
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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
Role has varied throughout apprenticeship. Initially predominantly site based inspecting wastwater treatment structures. But moved to a joint venture in spring 2024 to gain more design experience. Now leading on clean water projects as a project management focused role, and also as civil engineer lead on other projects.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
Mott MacDonald is an excellent employer and provides extensive support through internal graduate/apprentice development courses and when requesting further development.
I feel like it has been relatively easy to balance this course with my workload, therefore periods of extreme stress have been limited.
I feel like it has been relatively easy to balance this course with my workload, therefore periods of extreme stress have been limited.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have been in the industry since 2013. I began the apprenticeship as a BIM technician. I had a good overall understanding of structures and their construction, but limited knowledge of design. This apprenticeship has improved my communication between contractors and clients.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme format is explained in depth at the start.
I did have some initial issues with finding an appropriate mentor but this has been resolved over the past year. I am happy with the support I am receiving.
I did have some initial issues with finding an appropriate mentor but this has been resolved over the past year. I am happy with the support I am receiving.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
As discussed previously I have regular check ins with my line manager, mentor and delegated engineer.
Alongside this I have completed multiple internal courses and apprenticeship focused development days.
I am able to maintain my personal life balance to a good extent, and flexible working allows me to spend additional time on my coursework opposed to the commute.
Alongside this I have completed multiple internal courses and apprenticeship focused development days.
I am able to maintain my personal life balance to a good extent, and flexible working allows me to spend additional time on my coursework opposed to the commute.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I have tried to work as independently as possible, however the university does provide lecturers with extensive knowledge.
The lab team have been supportive of my dissertation, and nothing has been too much. Sadly marking has been late a few times which has meant I have had to submit follow on assessments without feedback of the previous assignment.
The lab team have been supportive of my dissertation, and nothing has been too much. Sadly marking has been late a few times which has meant I have had to submit follow on assessments without feedback of the previous assignment.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I now have design knowledge in various specialisms which I have been able to apply in the workplace. I feel well equipped to apply for my professional qualification.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Yes there are many to attend. However I already have extensive hobbies and social activities that I have to squeeze inbetween my work and studies so I don't attend often.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Mott MacDonald to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would never work for another large scale employer again!
The company is employee owned so all profits go to rewarding and developing their employees. They also support various charitable causes worldwide.
The apprenticeship is well structured and there is plenty of opportunity to develop your CV however you wish, whether that be through internal team transfers or transfers to different offices.
The company is employee owned so all profits go to rewarding and developing their employees. They also support various charitable causes worldwide.
The apprenticeship is well structured and there is plenty of opportunity to develop your CV however you wish, whether that be through internal team transfers or transfers to different offices.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Mott MacDonald?
I would recommend getting as much experience as possible to set yourself apart from other applicants.
I didn't get accepted by MM at my first application, however I used my time to develop my experience on and off site so that I was valuable to my team.
I didn't get accepted by MM at my first application, however I used my time to develop my experience on and off site so that I was valuable to my team.
