Graduate Engineer Review

I would say my experience at AstraZeneca was extremely positive. It's a great company with lots of support from the scheme manager and sponsors. It has given me the ability to work in different departments at different sites and develop a range of skills, both technical and soft. It also has allowed me to meet and talk to senior leaders.

My first role the main responsibilities were safely managing change whilst maintaining good manufacturing practices. I also performed safety calculations and wrote reports.
My second role my main responsibilities have been managing shutdown plans, completing problem solving exercises such as PPSs and Level 0s to identify potential areas for improvement. I have also done some project management activities for room modifications required to bring in new technologies.

From early in my rotations I was given critical work packages that were essential for the site.

The 11% benefit scheme on top of your base salary is very helpful as it allows you to prioritise what is important to you each year, whether that be additional holiday, a greater pension contributions, shares schemes etc.

I feel my role is giving me oversight of how different departments and sites work so I have a good base level of knowledge of how different teams work together to achieve a common goal. I also think the ability to work with senior leaders on strategy is preparing me well for a leadership role in the future if that is something I decide I would like to do.

The support from line managers, mentors and buddy's is very good as they communicate well and are always available for support. What would be helpful would be a buddy in a different area of the business rather than someone closely linked to your role to help you gain an understanding of the wider picture.

My working week supports my personal time and physical and mental wellbeing well, especially in my first role where there was flexible working to allow for personal tasks, appointments etc. There is an emphasis on checking in everyday and making sure people are getting away from their desks etc.

I think that across the business the culture is very positive and inclusive and there is a culture of learning and development. They hybrid working policies vary from site to site so that depends on where you are based. In general the atmosphere is great and it is a really nice place to work, that is very rewarding.

Yes

I believe AstraZeneca is a great company to work for, with varied roles and great benefits. It's also very rewarding working for a company where you know you are making a significant impact on patients lives.

The role was very similar to what I expected based on recruitment. Both the advert and the conversations I had at interview were aligned with my experiences in role.