Apprentice Civil Engineer Review
at Balfour Beatty
Degree Apprenticeship
Civil Engineering
Birmingham
Review Submitted: April 2026
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
-
Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
4.8/5
-
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
My role involves carrying out many of the same day‑to‑day duties as a Site Engineer while developing my technical knowledge and practical experience. On a daily basis, I assist with setting out works from engineering drawings, checking levels and measurements, monitoring site activities, and ensuring construction is carried out in line with specifications, quality standards, and health and safety requirements. I support inspections, record progress and site data, help manage site documentation, and liaise with senior engineers, subcontractors, and operatives to ensure works run efficiently.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoy my programme, as it provides valuable hands‑on experience while also building my technical knowledge and understanding of the civil engineering industry. The combination of practical site work and structured learning has helped me develop key engineering skills and confidence in my role, while also giving me a clear pathway into the profession. I find the programme particularly rewarding because it allows me to apply what I learn in real‑world situations, supporting my long‑term goal of establishing a successful career in civil engineering.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, I have learnt new skills and further developed existing ones, including setting out, interpreting engineering drawings, site inspections, communication with subcontractors, and a stronger understanding of health and safety and quality control on site.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is well organised and structured, with a clear balance between on‑the‑job learning and formal training. It allows me to progressively build my skills and knowledge while applying what I learn directly to real site activities.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a high level of support from my employer, with guidance from experienced engineers and management who are always available to provide advice, feedback, and learning opportunities to help me develop in my role.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
I receive good support from my training provider, with regular reviews, clear guidance on assignments, and timely feedback to ensure I stay on track with my qualification.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My qualification supports my role well, as it reinforces my technical understanding and helps me apply theoretical knowledge directly to site‑based engineering tasks, improving my confidence and performance at work.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
Yes, there are opportunities to get involved in extra‑curricular activities such as social events and professional networking opportunities, which help build relationships within the company and across the industry.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Yes, I would recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend, particularly to someone looking to start or develop a career in civil engineering. The company offers strong support for apprentices and early‑career professionals, with good opportunities to gain hands‑on experience on major projects while learning from experienced engineers. The training, guidance, and exposure to real site responsibilities have helped me build confidence and practical skills, and the overall working environment is professional and supportive. This makes Balfour Beatty a good place to learn, progress, and establish a long‑term career in the industry.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Balfour Beatty?
1. Show genuine interest in the industry and the company: Research Balfour Beatty’s projects, values, and role within the construction industry, and be prepared to explain why you want to work for them specifically.
2. Emphasise a willingness to learn: Balfour Beatty values people who are eager to develop, take on responsibility, and learn from experienced professionals, especially for apprenticeship and early‑career roles.
3. Demonstrate strong teamwork and communication skills: The work is highly collaborative, so highlighting examples of working well in teams, taking initiative, and communicating clearly will strengthen your application.
2. Emphasise a willingness to learn: Balfour Beatty values people who are eager to develop, take on responsibility, and learn from experienced professionals, especially for apprenticeship and early‑career roles.
3. Demonstrate strong teamwork and communication skills: The work is highly collaborative, so highlighting examples of working well in teams, taking initiative, and communicating clearly will strengthen your application.
