Test and Commissioning Engineer Review

Item: Test and Commissioning Engineer at BAE Systems
Rating: 4.8
Author: Anonymous

at BAE Systems

Degree Apprenticeship

Electronic and Electrical Engineering

Barrow-in-Furness

Review Submitted: April 2026

Overall Rating

4.8 /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

4.6/5 - 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 is a mix of office work and practical testing. The office work consists of writing and reviewing test documentation. The practical work is testing and commissioning systems ready for the customer.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

I really enjoy my programme, it is very unique and engaging. The opportunities in this scheme are unparalleled

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

I learn new skills every day, including hangs on testing skills and developing my electrical understanding.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

5/5

Very well organised

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

BAE are very supportive of every aspect of the apprenticeship.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

4/5

I study at Blackpool and the Fylde college (accredited by Lancaster university) and the support is good but sometimes there is a disconnect between the college and the company so communication can be a little bit messy.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

4/5

We are working towards a Nuclear engineering degree, the relevancy of this degree to our role depends on the test section you are in but the engineering principles we learn are useful regardless.

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 many social events organised by the LHAC (Local Higher Apprentice Council) for all apprentices to get involved with, the company also offers a lot of STRETCH opportunities which allow apprentices to experience events and opportunities outside of their regular working role, including visiting schools, organising and helping with engagement sessions and working with the local community. There are also lots of networking opportunities within the company.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?

Yes

Why?

They are a very supportive employer who put time and effort into their apprentices. The pay is very competitive and apprentices are made to feel valuable and important. The company has a prestigious reputation and offers very unique opportunities to work on world-class systems. Depending on the role, there is also the opportunity to work a variety of shift patterns, which offer lots of time off and an improved work-life balance, if wanted.

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?

Research the company and what we produce, focusing on your particular sector (submarines, air, weapons, etc).
Know what you are applying for, what is your role? what course will you be studying? what opportunities are there?
Show genuine interest and ask questions.
Use STAR technique for interview questions, focusing on the BAE values.

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