Graduate Civil Engineer Review

My experience at Balfour Beatty has been very rewarding. I’ve had access to excellent learning and development opportunities and I've gained multiple engineering tickets and qualifications. One highlight was contributing to the exciting Sizewell C project in Suffolk, which provided invaluable hands-on experience. The Balfour culture is great, with supportive and knowledgeable colleagues who made every challenge enjoyable. Overall, I would highly recommend Balfour Beatty to anyone seeking growth and development in the construction industry.

I work as a Site Engineer under the Section Engineer and Site Agent, where I handle both technical and management tasks. My responsibilities include updating CAD models, surveying and setting out, signing off check sheets for the ITP, recording levels, organising traffic management, and ensuring compliance with Network Rail and Balfour Beatty specifications. I also manage subcontractors, coordinate with the site operatives, and make sure all permits and documentation are in place for the shift. I enjoy the variety of responsibilities, which keeps the role dynamic and engaging. I enjoy surveying and setting out so that I can strengthen my Leica and Trimble total station skills. Being part of complex projects like Sizewell C makes the experience highly fulfilling.

My role gives me significant opportunities to contribute meaningfully and feel valued. I’m trusted with key responsibilities such as surveying, setting out, managing subcontractors, and ensuring compliance, all of which directly impact the projects success. Working under the Section Engineer and Site Agent allows me to take ownership of tasks while learning from experienced engineers.

I'm provided with a company car due to the nature of my job which is a significant benefit. There are plenty of perks and benefits available through the company system

My role is preparing me very well for my future career. I've had exposure to a wide range of responsibilities and tasks including earthworks, soil stabilisation, drainage, track renewals, S&C, compound construction and level crossing upgrades. The breadth of experience is ensuring I'm developing versatility and problem-solving skills needed for more senior roles in the future.

The support I receive is good. My colleagues are helpful, and the company culture encourages collaboration and learning. I get strong guidance from my Section Engineer, especially with training and developing new skills.

Work-life balance is generally good, but it depends on project requirements. My projects site hours are typically 07:00 - 17:00. I occasionally have the option to work weekends when needed, but this varies by project. Overall, the schedule is manageable.

The organisational culture is positive, inclusive, and welcoming. As a Site Engineer, I’m required to be on site Monday to Friday with no hybrid or remote working. The company promotes diversity through multiple affinity networks that employees can join.

The company promotes diversity through multiple affinity networks that employees can join. They regularly hold monthly meetings and events throughout the year. The networks welcome anyone from the business.

Yes

I would recommend this role to a friend because it offers excellent learning and development opportunities, including formal training and hands-on experience. The variety of responsibilities vary from technical tasks like surveying and setting out to managing subcontractors. The role definitely helps build a well-rounded skill set. You get to work on incredible projects like Sizewell C, which are both challenging and rewarding. The team culture is supportive and inclusive, making it a great environment to grow your career.

The role has exceeded my expectations overall. While the hours and number of days required on site are slightly different from what was mentioned during the recruitment process, the work itself is far more exciting than I anticipated. I’ve had the chance to take on varied responsibilities and work on major projects, which has made the experience highly rewarding. Overall, it’s been a positive surprise and a great fit for my career goals.