Undergraduate R&D Engineer Review

Managing a project, assisting team performing engineering tasks for R&D work, including CAD models, engineering drawings, prototype testing and machine onboarding. Project managing includes working with a global team, co-ordinating meetings, talking to customers, giving presentations, conducting research and financial analysis.

I was given a lot of responsibility very early on, which I am pleased with. At times I did feel I could take more work on, but that was just the nature of there being no other relevant projects at the time that I could work on. I always had support from my manager and the rest of the team so never felt overwhelmed.

I was given a short SolidWorks course which is the CAD software used, and also was taught how to use other relevant softwares for 3D modelling. These included training for 3D printer softwares. I learnt 3D printing theory and design for 3D printing for SLA and FDM printers.
I developed my soft skills, especially presentation skills, as we were given tasks to present and receive feedback and training to improve.

I had weekly meetings with my manager, and also meetings with an employee on the graduate programme, so that I had the opportunity to raise other issues that I may not have wanted to discuss directly with my manager. I was always aware of the people I could talk to to get help or information.

Diverse and friendly team, and received a lot of support from them. The atmosphere of the whole work site is very friendly and welcoming, never not liked someone I met.

I really learned a lot from my placement, and had the opportunity to meet with other undergraduates from different departments frequently. At times the work load may have been slower, and the office was sometimes a bit quieter than usual, but this is to be expected anywhere you work. There were some fun opportunities as well that the whole site got involved in, like a summer event with food and games.

Yes