Systems Engineer Review
at Thales
Degree Apprenticeship
Engineering
Stockport
Review Submitted: March 2026
Overall Rating
4.4 /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
4/5
-
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
I work on a large range of topics within the systems engineering domain for a defence project, using problem solving skills and time management. most of the time i am behind a desk but I've had the opportunity to work off site and on work trips outside the UK.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I find my apprenticeship and time commitment outside of work are well accounted for. I'm able to dedicate the time I need to get both my work and uni work done without stress.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I've come into the company as an IVV engineer and slowly developed my skills in systems engineering from the ground up at Thales who are a prime example of INCOSE methodology which is the gold standard of systems engineering.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
I'm mostly left to manage my own time between normal work and uni work. My in class time is scheduled around block weeks which I find to be best compared to one day a week.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Complete support. If i can't do something due to apprenticeship work they understand and work around my schedule.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
In class lecturers are very helpful, and available outside of class if needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I'm able to better see the whole lifecycle of a project through my training which isn't possible in my day to day due to the slow nature of the projects I work on (multi-year length)
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
Not that I am aware, but I also do not need them
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Thales to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Good work life balance. Interesting work, development focused.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Thales?
Systems engineering is used throughout the business. understanding the V-life cycle and other SE topics make you stand out. Apply for IfSE/INCOSE and look at the SEBoK.
