Civil Engineering Degree Apprentice Review
at Mott MacDonald
Degree Apprenticeship
Civil Engineering
Brighton, East Sussex
Review Submitted: April 2026
Overall Rating
4.5 /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
4.2/5
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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
As a Civil Engineering Degree Apprentice, my day to day varies depending on the projects I am involved in and the stage the project is at. But typically I support project delivery by undertaking research into proposed development areas, producing CAD drawings for structures, foundations and site layouts, and assisting with vehicle tracking and equipment layouts. I also carry out structural calculations to assess applied loads and determine appropriate design parameters.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy working for my company, as I am surrounded by friendly and supportive professionals who encourage my development as an engineer. I initially worked alongside colleagues to learn tasks first-hand, and over time I was trusted to carry these out independently, with guidance and constructive feedback. I also have the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, allowing me to develop a broad set of engineering skills.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
When I started my apprenticeship, I had a background in Engineering BTEC but little prior knowledge of the civil engineering/ energy transmission sector. My line manager and colleagues were aware of this and gave me tasks that provided a strong introduction into the industry, allowing me to gradually build my knowledge and understanding. As an apprentice, I have learned many skills on the job, with a range of experienced professionals taking the time to explain software, processes and technical skills. With the support provided, I have grown in confidence when undertaking tasks and am regularly given opportunities to work on new projects/ activities, helping me to continuously expand my skill set. In addition, I have access to a range of mandatory workshops and training sessions that further develop my skills and broaden my professional mindset.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
My programme is well organised with my line manager keeping tabs on my progress and activities I have worked on. My line manager is also up to date on my modules at university so that he can try and tie in what I am learning at university with the tasks that I undertake at work.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
At my company I have a range of support available to me from my line manager, buddy and ECP network. I have a good working relationship with people from my company that I feel comfortable speaking with them about any issues I have.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I have quarterly calls with my university and line manager to talk through my progress and any issues I may be facing. My university is also aware that I have less time as an apprentice to complete coursework and so where appropriate I get extended deadlines.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
My university qualification supports my role by allowing me to apply academic theory to real engineering projects. It is especially helpful when my university links closely with what I am working on day to day. However, because I work in energy transmission, not everything I learn is directly transferable compared to other sectors like water.
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
There are plenty of activities available outside of work. Each sector within each office has its own sports and social reps, supported by budget to organise events. There are monthly whole team socials, which includes activities such as bowling, ice skating, laser tag and volleyball running every week in summer available to the whole office.
The company also hosts a summer and winter ball each year which are formal events that provide a great opportunity to network with colleagues across the office. There is also an annual sports day, which is partially subsidised and held over a weekend, where offices compete against each other. This is a great opportunity to socialise and network with colleagues from offices across Europe.
Alongside this, there is a range of ECP opportunities, including fully funded trips to other offices to attend workshops and events.
The company also hosts a summer and winter ball each year which are formal events that provide a great opportunity to network with colleagues across the office. There is also an annual sports day, which is partially subsidised and held over a weekend, where offices compete against each other. This is a great opportunity to socialise and network with colleagues from offices across Europe.
Alongside this, there is a range of ECP opportunities, including fully funded trips to other offices to attend workshops and events.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Mott MacDonald to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Everyone at Mott MacDonald is friendly and supportive. It is amazing to work for an employee owned company which values its employees and offers a range of benefits.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Mott MacDonald?
For apprentices, the interviewers are looking for soft skills which isn't necessary what you know, but your attitude to learning and your passion for the industry.
