Working in electrical&electronic · PDF file3. Working in . electrical & electronic...

Working in

● Manufacturing

● Construction

● Services

● Energy and power

● Armed Forces

● Transport and communications

electrical & electronicengineering

Engineering

Contents

Introduction

2Manufacturing

Design engineer

Cable jointer

Assembly operator

Managing director

9Construction

Electrician

Project engineer

12Services

Medical technical officer

Service engineer

Chief electrician

Transfer engineer

20Energy and power

Electrical fitter

Light electrical technician

24Armed Forces

Craftsperson: electronics

26Transport and

communicationsGraduate trainee

Trainee air traffic controller

Engineer: electronic

32Now YOU ask

the questions

33Further reading

33Useful addresses

What is Connexions?

Connexions is a new service to help every young personmake the right choices for them, about courses, training andcareers. But it is much more than that. Connexions can offerhelp with anything else you are going through that might stopyou getting on with your life. Whether for example, it is health or sexual problems, a disability, trouble at home, leaving care or,maybe having problems with drink or drugs, the Connexions servicecan get you the right help to sort it out.

A Connexions personal adviser may be based at your school or college orcan be reached at your local Connexions centre. There will be lots of Connexionspoints in your local area where you can get the latest information on a wholerange of issues that affect young people's lives, including ideas for filling yourspare time in a sociable, positive and exciting way.

The Connexions Working in series

What jobs can I do outdoors, use English for, or what is it like working in the engineeringindustry? The Working in series will help you to answer these questions. There are nearly50 booklets in the series which cover different occupational areas, subjects and other areassuch as working with children. They feature case studies of people actually doing the jobs.They tell you what it's really like, the good things and the bad. Also included is key informationlike what qualifications you'll need, what training you can get and how much you mightget paid.

We take great care to ensure that the information included in the booklets is accurateand impartial to help you make decisions about subjects to study, careers and whatyour future learning requirements are to achieve your goal. We do check eachWorking in with professionals before it is printed, but things can change. So atthe back of the booklet you'll find lots of telephone numbers, addresses andwebsites you can use to get the very latest information.

Key to salary icons

up to £12,000

£12,001 to £17,000

over £17,000

This represents the typical starting salary for the job featured in the case study.

Click on a job title to take you to the case study page

1

IntroductionWhen we look at all the everyday things that make our worldfunction it is difficult to find anything that does not depend uponelectricity for either its manufacture or its operation.

Electricity in commercial form has only been available for just over100 years and electronics, its low-powered equivalent, for 70 years.We may wonder how people lived before that time and marvel athow much has been achieved since. What we should be examiningis where do we go next with electricity and electronics?

Much of the answer can probably be provided by the 16 peoplefeatured in this book. They represent the next wave of engineerswho are working in various areas of electricity from generation to consumption. They tell how and why they are in this businessand give some good tips for those who may wish to follow intheir footsteps.

The manufacturing sector produces almost everything that weuse. It ranges from factories making equipment or processing foodto those manufacturing clothing or electronic accessories for usein instruments installed in aircraft and hospitals. Find out aboutpeople working in this sector, such as Katy Webb who makeselectronic assemblies in a factory in North Yorkshire.

Shippy Boora, who works in the services sector, represents an areaof electronics engineering familiar to most of us. Situated in theheart of Soho, she is a transfer engineer with a major recordingstudio and gets to meet famous people, as does Steve Sinclairwho is chief electrician at the West Yorkshire Playhouse. A totallydifferent section of the sector features George Robertson whoworks in a theatre of a different type – maintaining anaestheticequipment as a medical technical officer.

Whilst coal, oil and gas can be obtained from the ground,electricity has to be produced. There are various ways of doingthis, from using giant hydroelectric schemes to small petrol-drivengenerators working in the countryside. We feature Karl Robertswho is working at Sizewell B nuclear power station on the Suffolkcoast. This power station is operated by British Energy and is thelargest of its type in the country. Electricity from giant power stationslike this one can be transported over vast distances and exportedto other countries.

The armed forces are represented by the Royal Navy andengineering construction by an engineer and an electricianworking in Scotland.

Transport and communications is a major user of electricity andelectronics. Read about Ibrahim Atta-Appau, a graduate traineewith Network Rail, who designs and improves signalling systemsto increase safety on our railways, and Ruki Maniks developingthe latest in 3G mobile phone networks. Finally, as you take off onyour next holiday flight, think of Jon Lowrie, an air traffic controlleron the ground, ensuring that you have a safe journey.

It’s an engineering world – driven by electricity – and if youwant to get involved the names and addresses at the end of thebook will give you all the information you need to get you started.

Modern Apprenticeships

Modern Apprenticeships (Skillseekers in Scotland) are animportant entry route into the electronics and electrical engineeringsector. They offer young people the opportunity to start their careerthrough a combination of learning options and work experience.

There are two levels of Modern Apprenticeship. As a FoundationModern Apprentice (FMA), you’ll have a job and a wage, or beon a work placement with a weekly training allowance. AnFMA takes at least 18 months to complete and leads toNVQ Level 2 and a Technical Certificate. The work ismainly practical: you’ll develop technical skills and gainvaluable work experience. There is also theopportunity to progress to anAdvanced ModernApprenticeship.

As an Advanced ModernApprentice (AMA),you’ll be in full-timeemployment withan appropriate wage,aiming for a technical,supervisory or juniormanagement role. Thetraining, which usually lasts at least 24 months, leads to NVQ Level 3 and aTechnical Certificate. For many, an AMA is a stepping stone touniversity.

Working inelectrical &electronic engineering

2

What does your job involve?

I am a member of a design team working on a varietyof air conditioning projects for different customers.We also design close control systems for rooms andareas, such as computer processing centres andlaboratories, where strict control of temperature andhumidity is required.

The team consists of a team leader and up to twomechanical engineers. We also have a CAD (ComputerAided Design) engineer who is familiar with computermodelling in 3D, which enables us to see the generalarrangement of a system before the first build.

What are your main responsibilities?

All refrigeration systems consist of electrical andmechanical components to enable the system to workeffectively. It is usually my responsibility to designthe electrical parts of a project that include controlcircuits and electrical switchgear.

I have to select components that will do the job and arrange wiring diagrams and bills of materials.During all these stages I must work within specifiedelectrical standards. The team works closely with thesales department and at the end of a project I aminvolved with writing technical literature for theproduct instruction and technical manuals.

What equipment do you use?

Various instruments to measure electrical value/unitsincluding Digital Multimeters, which monitor electriccurrent voltages and resistance, oscilloscopes whichdisplay electrical quantities in a two dimensional graphand microprocessors which are small computers.

Do you have a typical day?

I spend a lot of time in the office working on theCAD system to ensure that our ideas and suggestionswill actually work in practice. I have meetings withcustomers, other members of the design team andwith the people on the shop floor who are actuallymaking the items from the prototypes that we are designing.

What was your route into this work?

At 16 I was due to start my A levels. However thecareers department at school told me about a job withmy present employer as a technical apprentice thatseemed very interesting. During my apprenticeship I wenton day release to college/university for four years formy first HNC, then a further two years for my second.

Design engineerPaul Fairclough is an electrical design engineer working in ateam designing and developing air-conditioning products forindustrial and commercial use. He joined Airedale International AirConditioning Ltd in Leeds as a Modern Apprentice after leavingschool with nine GCSEs. He now has Higher National Certificatesin Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Refrigeration andAir Conditioning.

Manufacturing

This sector is a major user of electricity. As production becomes ever more mechanised and factories produce items atincreasing speed, the need for electricity increases. This ranges from high-voltage three-phase power supplies drivingfast production lines and providing air conditioning and refrigeration, to low-power current, controlling the qualitycontrol processes or checking the accuracy of electronic assemblies.

3

Working in electrical & electronic engineering

Was this decision right for you?

Yes. An apprenticeship enables you to study whilstworking with a company. It also enables you to workalongside experienced people who are keen to helpand advise you to become qualified.

What additional training do you receive?

Mainly on the job training. Projects can be so variedand interesting that it’s difficult not to pick up anddevelop new ideas as they are discussed among theteam. Also working with well-established engineerswho know the industry inside out is a real bonus.

Salary information

Salaries vary from company to company. An average starting salary would bebetween £15,000 to £25,000 rising to a top figure of around £50,000.

What hours do you work?

I usually work standard office hours, although if a projectis particularly unusual or difficult it may be necessaryto work longer hours to meet deadlines.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of your job?

Seeing your ideas come to fruition is always rewarding.When you know that they have contributed to the saleof a successful product you know you have done yourjob correctly.

The only real disadvantage is the specialist nature ofmy job, which means that sometimes a lot of workaccumulates and I am extremely busy.

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Professional engineer:electronic

Professional engineer:electrical

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Technician: electronicengineering

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Building technician

Technician: engineeringconstruction electrical

Paul’s route

• Nine GCSEs.

• NVQ Level 2 EngineeringManufacture.

• BTEC National Certificatein Engineering.

• HNC Electrical andElectronic Engineering.

• RSA Key Skills Level 3.

• HNC Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.

Getting in

• An important entry route for this type of work is with an employer as atechnician apprentice through Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships(Skillseekers in Scotland).

• A full-time course leading to either an Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ Level 3 or a BTECNC/D or SQA NC Group award in engineering. You then apply to an employerfor a trainee technician post.

4

What is cable jointing?

It is literally joining cables and wires together and isvery skilled work. It is done in a variety of environmentseither indoors or outside, mostly underground butsometimes on overhead lines involving posts or pylons.

How did you get into this work?

I completed GCSEs and after a year studying at A level decided that I wanted to work in an outdoorenvironment. I joined Yorkshire Electricity on a ModernApprenticeship which has just finished and I now haveNVQ3 and City & Guilds in Electrical and ElectronicEngineering. I now study one day a week at collegefor a BTEC National Certificate in Electrical andElectronic Engineering.

Where is most of the work done?

Normally on customers’ premises where there maybe supply problems or on new buildings or housingestates where there is a need to make a newconnection. Sometimes there are faults on our ownsupply lines which have to be checked and repaired.

At the moment I am repairing a connection betweena house and the mains supply, which involves digginga hole to get to the faulty connection, cutting off themains supply and fitting new cable.

What tools do you use for this?

I use normal workshop tools but because the workalways involves electric cabling all my hand tools andfootwear are insulated. This means that I am protectedto prevent me getting an electric shock if I accidentallytouch live cables.

Our specialist tools include aluminium cable cuttersand gas torches for cutting and heating. The cablecutter looks like a pipe cutter and has a blade andtwo wheels which circle the cable and cut it to therequired depth without damaging the inside wiring.Gas torches are like blowtorches with variable flamesfor different levels of heating.


Hours vary tremendously depending upon where weare working and the nature of the job we are doing.Although our basic day is seven and an half hourswe can never leave a job until it is finished so weoften have to work overtime. We also have to workon standby duties ready to be called out in anemergency such as a power failure or lines beingbrought down in a storm.

Cable jointerAmanda Taylor Amanda is a cable jointer working withNorthern Electric. She left school after taking one year of herA level course and became a Modern Apprentice. She receivedan apprenticeship award and is now fully qualified to work onlive electrical installations and cables.

Manufacturing

5


Do you work on your own?

No, I work with another person qualified as a ‘mate’.This person has to be with me to ensure my safetywhen I am working but is not qualified to work on‘live’ jointing. Each day I collect my van from thedepot and travel to my job for the day. Sometimes, if the site where I am working is far away from thedepot, I take the van home at night and set off earlyin the morning.

What do you like best about your work?

It’s not in an office and it’s almost always outdoors.Sometimes we can work indoors in customers’premises but not often. I also like the responsibilitythat I have because although I am not entirely myown boss I have a lot of independence and set myown work routines.

Is there anything you don’t likeabout the job?

Sometimes it can be quite hard physically when wehave to take old cables out or join large heavy cablestogether. However, I get a lot of enjoyment andpersonal satisfaction out of my work. Naturally it’sbetter in the warmer months of the year but for thisjob summer can sometimes be too hot. On somedays in the depths of winter I may wish I wasworking inside, but it soon passes.

Amanda’s tips

• Only take a job like this if you are happyworking outside.

• Contact several employersbefore deciding which jobto take.

• Talk to the people already working on thejob before deciding.

Related jobs

Engineering operator:electronicTechnician: electricalengineering Engineering craftsperson:electronic

Amanda’s route

• Nine GCSEs.

• Modern ApprenticeshipElectrical Engineering.

• NVQ3 in ElectricalEngineering.

• City & Guilds 2320Electrical Engineering.

Getting in

• Entry is by Modern Apprenticeship (Skillseekers in Scotland) which normallyrequires English, maths and science at GCSE/S level or Part 1 GNVQ/GSVQ level 1.Some employers may accept lower entry levels, provided the candidate can showsufficient competence to be able to undertake the theoretical part of the course.

• Contact Jobcentres and Jobcentre Plus offices and the various electricitydistribution companies in your area. Similar vacancies exist with large electricalcontractors and the Engineering Careers Information Centre (ECIS) will provide alist of organisations.

What did you gain by being a Modern Apprentice?

Proper training with qualified people who wereextremely helpful and cooperative. I also appreciatedthe way in which I could study and gain goodbackground knowledge whilst working.

Salary information

Salaries start at about £10,000 a year, which will increase as experience is gained.The average pay in the industry is £15,000 a year. Operators with specialistexperience can receive as much as £20,000.

6

What is involved in this type of work?

Printed circuits replace ordinary wiring in electronicequipment, such as radio and television sets, computersand control equipment, and airborne and guided-missile electronic systems. They reduce the size andweight of the equipment. I work at a bench and myjob is to fix various small electronic items such aselectronic memory microchips and resistors into thecorrect place onto the printed circuit boards.

The circuit boards may be green plastic on which asmall copper wire circuit has been printed at anotherpoint in the factory. Different designs of circuit boardare needed for different applications. They are broughtto my workplace in boxes and I take them out oneby one to work on them.

Using a selection of tools I fix the items onto thecopper wire circuit on the board in the correct positions.I use instruction diagrams to tell me where to put them.When I have finished I test them using measuringequipment to see if there is a correct output fromthe board.

Sometimes if there is a fault I may have to rework a board or add more items to it. I then have to test it again.

What tools and equipment do you use?

Diagrams to show me where to place the items on each board, soldering irons and test equipment. I have to work to a different diagram for each job. I use a variety of hand-tools such as pliers, cutters,soldering pumps and many different screwdrivers.


The actual work that I do is fairly standard on a day-to-day basis. However each job is different and thatis where the skill comes in. Different customersrequire different equipment, which in turn requiresdifferent circuit board layouts. If they were all thesame the job would be unskilled and could be doneby a robot!

Assembly operatorKaty Webb is an assembly operator who builds printed circuit boards for use in electronic equipment. Lives maydepend on Katy, as the circuit boards she works on are usedby organisations such as NHS hospitals and clinics, the Army,Navy and the Royal Air Force as well as civil airlines and trafficcontrol systems. They are also installed in equipment such asmobile phones. Katy works for GSPK Electronics based inKnaresborough in North Yorkshire.

Manufacturing

7


What are the pros and cons of your job?

As I have a disability the big advantage is that I can meet people and it is a job that I can do, and dowell. My employer is prepared to make the necessarychanges to enable me to carry out my work. They haveprovided wheelchair facilities within the factory. I gethelp from my fellow employees in lifting larger itemsof equipment such as boxed kits or test equipment.

The main problem, for me at least, is that I would findit difficult to carry out the more active jobs in productionso promotion for me will be limited.

Where do you see your next move?

With the knowledge I have gained within the companyI would like to try and get into office work.


We all work 40 hours a week, Monday-Thursday 8 a.m.-5.30 p.m. and Fri 8 a.m.–12 noon. I am veryindependent and I make my own arrangements to travel to and from work.

Related jobs

Operator: electricalCraftsperson:electronic andelectrical

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Katy’s route

• Attended a school for people with disabilities.

• NVQ1 Electronics.

• CLaIT (Computer Literacy and InformationTechnology).

• ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence).

• Studying for NVQ2.

Getting in

• No basic qualifications are required although GCSE/S grades in vocationalsubjects would be useful.

• Dexterity, attention to detail and reliability are key areas for employers.

• On-the-job training and the opportunity to study for NVQ/SVQ2 in Electronics is normally provided.

Salary information

Salaries are likely to start at about £10,000 per annum, which will increase as experience is gained. The average pay in the industry is £15,000. Operatorswith specialist experience can receive as much as £20,000 but to earn morerequires craft training. Overtime and shift work payments can supplement these figures. Conditions of employment vary greatly and depend upon theemploying organisation.

Katy’s tips

• Disabled people want, above all else, to beindependent and employers and workersmust appreciate this.

• I have found that if you are positive aboutyour work both employers and employeeswill do a lot to assist you.

• Carry on learning and studying.

Angela’s route

• O levels.

• ONC.

• HND.

• BEng (Hons).

• IOD management course (Institute of Directors).


I am in charge of operations, which includespurchasing, production, stores, despatch and maintenance. It is my responsibility toensure that production and quality targetsare met. I also meet with customers andsuppliers to make sure we supply what thecustomer wants.

Do you also make the electronics components?

No, our production process positions, placesand solders the components to the board,manually or by machine. We have softwarethat programmes integrated circuits.

How did you make theprogression to electronics?

Engineering is becoming a very versatileprofession. Just because you may start out inone area doesn’t mean that you have to staythere. Most disciplines now overlap to a degreethat was unthinkable a few years ago.

What was your route into your current job?

After school I completed a one-year EITB (Engineering Industrial Training Board)course, which gave me a broad introductionto engineering. I then went on to do a TECcourse on day release, followed by HND fulltime, then a mechanical engineering honoursdegree full time.

When I became a director I went on a courseat the Institute of Directors to understandwhat being a director meant, such as thelegal responsibilities and the overall runningof a business.


My contract specifies 37 hours a weekwhich covers the normal working hours ofthe factory. However, like most senior staff I usually work more hours.

Managing directorAngela Simkins started her career as an engineeringmachine operator and has worked her way up to bemanufacturing director of GSPK Electronics, which makeselectronic assemblies for use in industry.

8

Manufacturing

Getting in

• It is possible to start straight from school and progress to the highest levels.However, to become a qualified engineer the studying has to be done and theexperience gained. There are many ways of combining the two.

• Apart from graduate entry many employers have numerous training programmes for Modern Apprentices and Advanced Modern Apprentices (Skillseekers in Scotland)and application should be made to them.

• Maths, English and science GCSE/S grades will be required to enable applicants to proceed with a course of study via National Diplomas and NVQ/SVQs which willnormally be supported by the employer.

Salary information

Salary rates of electronics engineers vary according to the type of employing organisationand the qualifications of the post holders. Graduate entrants usually start at around£18,000 with increases as experience and qualifications are gained. Experienced electronicsengineers earn around £35,000 and the average income for qualified chartered electronicsengineers is £45,000.

Related Jobs

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Angela’s tips

• Join a company or organisation, which has an enlightened approach to training and development.

• Make sure that your employer can offer you the practical experience to support youracademic studies.

Electrician

Which area of activity do you work in?

I work on the installation and maintenanceof low-voltage switchgear up to 415 voltsand the power cables associated in supplyingthem. We install the main switchboard andsub-distribution boards on each of the floorswithin buildings.

We also install cabling to computer systems,which may be used to control machinery, highvoltage sub-stations (11000v) or perhaps anoffice network system.

Where do you work?

We work on contract for a variety of clients from government, the services, localauthorities or private organisations.

Grant Coul is an electrician working for BalfourKilpatrick in Glasgow. He has just completedtraining as an apprentice under the ScottishElectrical Charitable and Training Trust (SECTT)scheme and is continuing to study for his HigherNational Certificate.

Working in electrical & electronic engineeringConstruction

Grant’s tips

• Stick at school and get good grades inphysics as this will help you at college.

• Listen and learn – that is how you gain experience.

Salary information

Apprentices start at £6,896, which increasesduring training. On final qualification they canexpect to start work at about £20,000.

Related jobs

Engineering craftsperson: electricalEngineering technician: electrical

Grant’s route

• Eight S grades (Scottish equivalent of GCSEs)

• Four H grades in craft and design, physics,computing studies and mathematics(Scottish equivalent of A levels).

• SVQ at Reid Kerr College in Electrical Installation.

• Level 1 – Stage 1 of Apprenticeship.



Getting in

• Grant got his apprenticeship (Skillseekers)under SECTT by direct application when hejoined his current employer.

Do you receive on the jobtraining?

Yes, I get practical training at the sites whereI work. I also attend day release at Reid KerrCollege for SVQ level 3 and HNC. (see ModernApprenticeships (Skillseekers in Scotland) onpage 1).

What do you like best aboutyour job?

I enjoy the different aspects of my job. I especially like faultfinding and rectification(rectification is the repair of faults).


The main advantage is that learning is agroup experience and apprentices work andtrain together, gaining a lot of experience aswe learn. A disadvantage can be the longtravelling distances involved in the area that we cover.

Construction does not necessarily involve buildings. Roads, railways,harbours and ships have to be built and need large numbers ofelectricians at every level. Services for new structures include milesof cabling and wiring, instruments and sensors, all electrical orelectronic and all requiring electricity.

9

10

Construction

What are your responsibilities?

My job is to ensure that any project under mysupervision is carried out on schedule, within the costtargets set and to a high standard expected by boththe company and the client.

This involves dealing with material suppliers, subcontractors, main contractors, consultants and architects.I also have to liaise with our own internal servicedepartments. These include the plant department,which supplies all the items of equipment needed onsite, and the purchasing and commercial departments.

I am mainly office-based, but I spend as much time as necessary on site to ensure that the work is proceeding on schedule.

What equipment do you need to do your job?

I use my personal computer a lot. The company have a large list of forms and procedures, which mustbe adhered to. They can all be accessed using the PC.I also spend a lot of time on the telephone liaisingwith sub contractors and suppliers to organisedeliveries and check progress on site.

I travel by car to the various sites.


Official working hours are 8.45 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.Monday to Thursday and finish at 4.00 p.m. on a Friday. However, the nature of the industry and the job I do means that late nights, early starts andweekends are occasionally required, to ensure thatthe projects are completed successfully.


No day is typical as different situations arise whichrequire action on a daily basis. Whilst one projectmay be in the early stages I will still be dealing withother projects that are nearing completion, or smallprojects which run alongside other major projects.

How did you get into this job?

I started with N G Bailey & Co as an apprenticeelectrician straight from school. I spent my apprenticeshipworking on various projects and sites and after fourand-a-half years passed my final Integrated CompetenceAssessment or Trade Test as it is commonly known. I attended college on a block release basis to add theoryand background knowledge to my practical site skills.

I was then invited into the Glasgow Branch to gainoffice-based experience in project engineering, whichsupports the site installations. I was gradually givenmore responsibility and offered a staff position as project engineer.

Project engineerRichard Cook works for N G Bailey & Co Ltd, one of theleading building services contractors in the UK. He is employedas a project engineer.

11


What ongoing training do you receive?

The company has its own management trainingcentre. Supervisory and management skill courses areprovided for young engineers like me, which usuallylast five days.

Courses for technical training are also available, which can add to my general knowledge and enableme to carry out my job in a more effective andcompetent manner.


There are many advantages. I meet and deal withpeople at all levels in the industry from workers onsite to clients’ representatives at meetings. This helpsmy communications skills and I meet a lot of peopleand make new acquaintances on a daily basis. Thisensures that boredom never sets in.

The only disadvantage would be the occasional longhours required to get the job done. However, the rewardof a completed, successful project is very satisfying.

Getting in

• An important entry route for this type of work is with an employer as atechnician apprentice through Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships(Skillseekers in Scotland). Most apprentices come in at 16 to 18, but entry ispossible up to 25. You’ll need four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) including mathsand science or technology or an appropriate Intermediate GNVQ/GSVQ Level 2.

• Another route is to take a full-time course leading to either an AdvancedGNVQ/GSVQ Level 3 or a BTEC NC/D or SQA NC Group award in engineering. You then apply to an employer for a trainee technician post. Alternatively you can take a full-time course leading to either an Advanced GNVQ/GSVQ Level 3 or a BTEC NC/D or SQA NC Group award in engineering.

• An increasing number of graduate apprentice places are now becomingavailable in engineering for students in higher education.

Richard’s route

• Eight S grades (Scottish equivalent of GCSEs).

• Three H grades in Craft and Design, English andPhysical Education (Scottish equivalent of A levels).

• Modern Electrical Apprenticeship with present employer.

• HNC Electrical Engineering.

• Management training at company managementtraining centre.

Richard’s tips

• Organisation and planning is essential. It is easy tolose track of important information when working on a lengthy project.

• Success will not come without a willingness to learn.Change and improvement are the two things you candepend upon in engineering and it helps to be awareof this.

Related Jobs

Technician: electronicengineering Technician: engineeringconstructionBuilding control surveyor

Building technicianEngineer: electronicEngineer: electrical Engineering technician:electrical.

Salary information

Salary rates vary according to the organisation and the qualifications of the postholders. New entrants start at around £12,000, which increases during training to about £15,000. Experienced electrical technicians earn around £18,000, and fullyqualified electrical engineering technicians can go up to £30,000.

12

Services


I work as part of a team of three and we maintainand service medical equipment assigned to us on aregular routine maintenance basis. We also undertakeemergency repairs to faulty equipment in use inhospitals and in patients’ homes.

I find where the faults are by leak-testing the systemsand replacing parts every six to twelve months as partof the service procedure.

What type of equipment do you work on?

Anything from a simple oxygen flow meter (which is basically a tap that delivers oxygen to a patient at their bedside) to an intensive care unit ventilator.These are used to support or completely breathe forsomeone who has suffered trauma, say in a car crash,or undergone serious surgery.

I also service anaesthetic systems that are used by theatre staff and anaesthetists. These must bemonitored constantly as muscle relaxation under theanaesthetic may even stop someone breathing. Forthis reason the systems will have ventilators to assistbreathing for the patient and monitoring of the heartrate and oxygen percentage in the patient’s blood. Thedepartment I work for is responsible for these systemsto be serviced and checked every six months.

Do you use many tools in your work?

I use various hand tools such as screwdrivers, spannersand associated test equipment, which can measurepressures of airflow, rates of gas flow and oxygenpercentages. We also have a unit that can simulatedifferent sizes of patient for testing ventilators.


Thirty-seven hours a week. There is not muchovertime as many problems out of hours can beresolved by swapping machines around. However,there is still a call-out system for senior techniciansfor very serious problems.

Medical technical officerGeorge Robertson is employed as a medical technical officer in the Cardiff and Vale NHS Trust Clinical Engineering department.His job is to help maintain anaesthetic and ventilation equipmentthat the various hospitals in the area use. The lives of patientsboth during and after operations depend entirely upon suchequipment and it is vital that it keeps working.

Electrical and electronics engineers work alongside the medical and surgical professions to create new methods oftreatment and new means of monitoring patients. They are responsible for the latest developments in the artisticworld, whether it be broadcasting, recording or theatrical productions. They are also the people you call when yourdishwasher or other household electrical appliance stops working.

13


What training do you receive?

Largely internal training with some courses being conducted by equipment companies on theirparticular product. For example I have recently attendeda training course for an anaesthetic system that myhospital has recently purchased. We were trainedover a period of four days on the operation of themachine and the service and trouble-shootingimplications of the product.

What are the advantages anddisadvantages of your job?

One of the advantages of my job is that I am not confined to one work area. There is always anopportunity to work on equipment situated in otherplaces such as hospitals, clinics and even the homesof patients. I also like the challenge of having to usemy initiative in sometimes difficult situations whereequipment does not respond quickly in an emergency situation.

The main disadvantage I find is that equipmentrequiring to be serviced is not always available at the time we want it, which causes unnecessarydisruption to our work.

What do you like best about your job?

Realising that I have solved a problem for someone.Personally I have not yet been faced with any life or death situations but I am sure some of mycolleagues have.

I also like the responsibility that I have while servicingequipment on site to ensure that we do not interruptor inconvenience the staff.

Related jobs

Engineer: clinicalEngineering technician:electronicsIntensive care unittechnician

George’s tips

• Do not focus on onediscipline or subject.There is more to everyjob in engineering thanfirst appears.

• Don’t disregard NVQs asa qualification. I gained a lot from them andfound them to be of greatuse to me in my work.

• Keep an open mind in what area you wouldlike to work as thereseems to be a lot ofchoices in engineering.

George’s route

• Eleven GCSEs.

• GNVQ Engineering NVQlevel 3.

• BTEC ONC Electronics.

• Studying for a HNC in Medical ElectricalEngineering.

Getting in

• A Modern or Advanced Modern Apprenticeship (Skillseekers in Scotland) is the route taken by many new entrants into this job. Entry will depend upongrades and four GCSEs grades (A-C) /S grades (1-3) including English or anIntermediate GNVQ/SVQ are usually required. Entrants with A levels will beconsidered for Advanced Modern Apprenticeships and will work towards NVQ/SVQ3in Engineering Manufacture. Graduate Apprenticeships are also becoming available.

Salary information

Salaries start at around £15,000. This figure could rise to £22,000 with experienceand senior technicians can earn up to £30,000.

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Where do you do most of your work?

Mostly on customers’ premises. I have a companyvan which I use to carry tools and a wide variety of spares because I never know exactly what I amgoing to need until I start working on a job. All ourservice engineers work within their own geographicalarea so I can always get home in the evening.

So your job involves a lot of travelling?

Yes, I am always on the road. I have to carry out acertain number of calls each day and the details andaddresses of my clients are given to me before I setout. I know the type of machines I will be dealingwith on that particular day and can ensure that Ihave the spares I am most likely to need.

What type of appliances do you deal with?

Mostly washing machines, dishwashers, vacuumcleaners and so forth. One of the main problems is the wide variety and age of the equipment which I have to repair. Some of the appliances, washingmachines in particular, can be twenty years old andare sometimes beyond repair.

What tools do you use?

All the normal electricians’ tools such as screwdrivers,pop riveters to secure covers and testing meters. I am also issued with a laptop computer which containsdetails of the clients and their machines. It helps meto control my holding of spares because all the partsthat I use are entered on the computer and can bereplaced automatically at the end of the day.

The laptop is able to display the wiring diagram ofany machine on which I may be working. This meansthat I can identify a fault immediately and don’t haveto make phone calls or wait for information if thereis anything that I don’t understand.

Is there a typical day?

Although the work I do may be routine, every call is unique because it depends on the customer,premises, machine and the problem. On each call thefirst thing I have to do is carry out a safety check onthe equipment and then find the fault.


After GCSEs, I found a job as a trainee graphicdesigner and printer but soon realised that it was not the job for me and moved to Hoover/Candy as a clerk responsible for booking service calls. After ayear I was promoted to supervisor and after a furtheryear was sent to their training school in Wales for afour-week service engineer course. I then receivedtraining on the job. When new machines are

Service engineerChris Holder is employed by GIAS Service Division, Hoover/Candy,as a service engineer and works on a wide variety of domesticappliances. Once they have gained experience, many peopleeventually become self-employed by setting up their ownbusiness in the service sector.

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introduced I am sent on short refresher courses tobring me up to date.


Forty hours per week, normally 8.30 a.m. to 5.30p.m. However, my time is flexible and I may be ableto work a short day sometimes and make up for itlater. I am paid a basic salary with bonuses.

What do you really like about your job?

The flexibility and always being on the move. Thereis no monotony and I meet a lot of interesting people.Each job presents a challenge of one sort or anotherand I like the satisfaction of overcoming difficultproblems. I also like being responsible for my ownwork schedule – being my own boss in a way. Thedownside of this is that I have only myself to blameif I get something wrong.

Anything you dislike?

The large amount of spares I have to hold at home.Top up supplies are sent to me regularly and theyseem to be in every room in the house!

Salary information

New entrants can start at around £10,000 and experienced workers can earn£16,000. Highly skilled and experienced servicemen or women can earn £25,000 upwards.

Getting in

• No specific qualifications are needed although some GCSEs/S grades or provenability to write reports and cope with in-service training will be required. A driving licence is essential.

• Apply to agents of major appliance manufacturers as well as smaller servicecompanies in your area. Contact local Jobcentres and Jobcentre Plus offices, checkpress vacancies and Yellow Pages.

• Similar vacancies exist with large electrical contractors and the EngineeringCareers Information Centre (ECIS) will provide a list of organisations.

• Some people train through college courses leading to GNVQ/GSVQ engineeringqualifications before applying to an employer.

• Entry may also be by Modern Apprenticeship (Skillseekers in Scotland) andmost people train through NVQs/SVQs.

Chris’s tips

• If you are interested in a job that is not office-bound don’t hesitate – go for it!

• It may be hard work and not always a bed of roses but on the positive sideyou can get job satisfaction in a very challenging environment.

Related Jobs

ElectricianPlumberServiceman/woman: officemachinery

Service technician: office equipmentTechnician: refrigeration/airconditioningTechnician: gas service

Chris’s route

• 9 GCSEs

• Service clerk

• Supervisor

• Company training school

16

What do you do?

I manage a team of five full-time electricians and our job is to set and operate the lighting for all thetheatrical shows.

Sometimes the producer will use the services of alighting designer who will decide exactly what he orshe needs for the show and it will be my responsibilityto provide it, using computers to activate cues, rig thelights, or operate equipment during performances.

What sort of equipment do you use for this?

The actual lighting is by tungsten, halogen or arclights. The first two are used when colour and specialdiffusing effects are needed. Arc lighting is very brightand harsh. Lights are controlled by digital movingunits which mix any colours and which are controlledby computer.

All equipment is monitored during the performancefrom a lighting desk situated at the back of theauditorium

After they have been finalised lighting plans are storedon the computer in removable disks which can bestored or used if the show moves to another venue.


It started as a hobby in amateur dramatics. I wasalways interested in the technical side of theatricalproductions and during my two years at collegestudying electrical and electronic engineering I tookpart in many shows.

So, when I had the opportunity to take up anelectrician’s job at the Eden Court Theatre inInverness I did not hesitate.

Each week we worked from Monday morning toTuesday night setting up the lighting for the next showwhich would run from Tuesday to Saturday. We thenoperated the lighting for the show, dismantling mostof it after the final show on Saturday night. Theywere long hours.

I then moved to Manchester Library Theatre as deputybefore taking up a similar position here in Leeds.After two years I was promoted to chief electricianand have been doing the job for five years.

Chief electricianStephen Sinclair is chief electrician at the West YorkshirePlayhouse in Leeds. This is the largest regional repertory theatrecompany in the UK outside London and Stratford. Since openingin 1990 it has staged each year over 1,000 performances. Thesehave included workshops, readings and community events and have been attended by over 250,000 people. It providesproductions of the highest quality on its two stages and playsan active part in the community of Leeds and Yorkshire.

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What hours do you work now?

We now work a 48-hour week and I usually start at about 10 a.m. each working day. Once a show isrunning and most of the initial problems have beensolved I normally leave the theatre after the showstarts at 7.30 p.m.

Other lighting staff will then take over the lightingdesk on a rota basis. Nevertheless I can work a lotof hours.

Did you get any special training for this work?

Most of my training has been on the job supplementedby product software training from the various suppliersthat we use.

What are the pros and cons of the job?

I get a great deal of job satisfaction and I like theflexible hours that I can work. Meeting a wide varietyof interesting and unusual people is very stimulatingand provides wonderful experience.

The downside of the job is the relatively low pay and for many people the unsociable hours would bea real disadvantage.

Salary information

Salary rates vary enormously according to the type of employer. Wages are verylow to begin with and you may have to work on minimum wages for some time.Qualified electricians can earn between £15,000 and £25,000. Freelance ratesvary from £75-£130 per day.

Getting in

• This is very specialised work and some experience is essential. Work experiencein school or higher education productions will improve your chances as well asin amateur community productions. Relevant vocational training and practicalskills are essential.

• Some theatre electricians enter the profession from drama schools where theyalso learn performing arts, or from college after qualifying in electrical andelectronic engineering. Entry without a degree or HND is possible, as practicaltraining as an electrician is far more important.

• Increasingly it is more common to attend a specialist technical theatre arts course and take City & Guilds courses C&G 1810 – Entertainments And TheatreElectrician, C&G 1820 – Sound Engineering C&G 2360 – Electrical Installation and NVQ/SVQ Stagecraft (lighting) level 2.

Related jobs

Electrician: theatreTechnician: electrical engineeringTechnician: electronic engineeringTheatre lighting designer/technician

Stephen’s tips

• Be prepared to give 100% commitment to whatever you are doing.

• Make sure you are capable of heavy work.

Stephen’s route

• Five O levels.

• Three H grades (Scottish equivalent of A levels).

• OND in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

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What do you do?

I assist clients and studio engineers in creating audio,TV and radio mixes which involve music and soundeffects. I organise location recording and search forsuitable sound effects. I transfer audio data onto variousformats for use in the industry such as CDs, cassettesand MP3 and transfer pictures into VHS, BETA SP andMPEG-CDROM.

Before the day’s sessions begin I have to back up andload all the data required by the clients. They pay bythe hour and everything has to be ready for them. Ifthey require links to overseas studios, say Hollywoodor New York, I have to arrange them beforehand andensure that everything works perfectly. This is doneby using digital telephone lines.


I work at mixing desks using cassette machines, CD players/recorders and PCs. I also use BETA andUMATIC machines which are picture record/playbackunits, VHS machines and audio-editing systems. I usepatch cords for linking various machines in order totransfer audio on to picture.

Who are your clients?

Mainly advertising agencies and film/TV/radioproduction companies looking to use our facilities to help them to achieve high quality effects on theproduct they have already recorded.

We arrange voice-overs which may be input by a well-known actor or actress, or a cartoon typecharacter for an advertisement. We may also providemusic or sound effects and sometimes send these toother studios around the world.

How did you get into this job?

I left school after GCSEs and spent nine years in abank. I then decided on a career change and joinedWave on work experience. I adapted to the work sowell that I was offered a job as a trainee. I am nowholding a permanent position as a sound engineer. It was the best move I could have made!

Transfer engineerShippy Boora is employed as a transfer engineer by WaveRecording Studios, which is based in Soho, London – the centreof the UK film, TV and recording industry. Wave has won manyawards for creativity and excellence and provides recording orvoice-overs for film, TV, music composition or radio production.London is a major global centre for this type of work attractinginternational artistes and technicians who use the latest digitalequipment available at the studio.

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What is a typical day for you?

I don’t really have one. Although many of the dailyduties are similar the clients vary so much that theirrequirements will always be different so no day canbe described as being typical.

What about training?

Training is on the job and I am learning all the time.This industry is so fast moving that something new is always coming along and we all have to learnquickly to keep a step ahead of our clients.

Senior staff members are always willing to handdown their knowledge and experience and we alllearn through trial and error.


It’s a wonderful job. The advantages are the creativeinput I can put into mixes and the trust the clientshave in my advice. It’s never boring and I am alwayshaving to learn. I also get to meet famous peoplesuch as Kylie Minogue and Samuel L Jackson whenthey come to work at the studio.

The only real disadvantage is the long hours. A normalday can be 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. during a project, soit can play havoc with social life at times. If a clienthas a really tight deadline I can be working untilmidnight or later. I never really know.

Salary information

This is a very broad area. New entrants start at about £9,000 for doing basic workbut this will soon increase to £15,000 and above if they show serious ability.Rates paid to professionals vary enormously but usually are £25,000 to £30,000.

Getting in

• Recording studios do not generally specify any educational requirements, butthey do look for people with a genuine interest in sound or post production.

• Employers also seek people with an interest in the technology of sound design or mixing. Practical evidence of this could include helping out on a local hospitalor university radio station, a holiday job with a local theatre, work with a popgroup (amateur or professional) or taking part in college productions.

• Most sound operators and technicians begin as freelancers, but this is a verycompetitive profession, so it is vital to network with other industry operators and maintain contacts. People working in this industry are very experiencedand new entrants need to build up a portfolio of work done and perhaps a show reel or tape.

Shippy’s tips

You must be prepared towork hard and put in theenergy and effort in orderto succeed. The rewards arethere to be gained and ifyou are prepared to makethe necessary sacrifices toobtain them.

Shippy’s route

• GCSEs.

• Working in a bank for nine years.

• Career change to a studio trainee before taking up her present position.

Related Jobs

Operator: electronic engineeringEngineering technician: electronicSound technician/operator

Sound engineer: recording industrySound technician/operator:film/TV/radio

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Energy and power

What tools do you use for this work?

A range of insulated screwdrivers, drills, saws andscaffolding ladders. I also use a variety of meters andtest instruments. These include an installation resistancetester for existing wiring to ensure that there is nodamage to the insulation and an earth route tester to check that the electricity supply is earthed in caseof a fault.

Do you work on your own?

I work on my own on small jobs and with anotherelectrician or a team on larger contracts. I started myapprenticeship working with a senior electrician buteventually was able to undertake small jobs on myown. Now I can work independently on many jobsthat I have to do.


I start at the depot at 8 a.m. each morning beforegoing to the work allocated for the day. I have acompany vehicle, which I use to take tools andequipment to the site where I am working. Usually I get back to the depot at 5 p.m. I work these hoursfrom Monday to Friday and only work at weekendsin emergencies.


I started off doing work experience as a carpenterbefore joining another company as an apprenticeelectrician. I didn’t feel that I was getting the rightexperience and quickly made a change to mypresent job.

Electrical fitterMatthew Fillipi is in his fourth year as an electrical traineeand has almost completed a Modern Apprenticeship. He worksas an electrical fitter for Walter Hartley Ltd, an electrical contractorin Harrogate, North Yorkshire. Matthew works in a variety ofenvironments, both small and large, from individual housesand shops to conference centres and factories – ensuring thatelectricity is delivered safety and efficiently.

What type of contracts do you work on?

The company takes on a range of jobs which meansthat I get a wide variety of experience. I have workedin areas such as domestic installations for individualcustomers and housing projects, shop fitting servicesfor large and small retail outlets and very complexlighting for the Harrogate International ConferenceCentre. I have also installed emergency lighting anddoor release magnets and house wiring, from singlesockets to the rewiring of a whole factory unit.

Electrical engineering is primarily about generating and supplying electricity. Only then can we begin to use it. Power stations, transformers, generators and cables are the means by which energy and power is made and deliveredto the engineers who will put it to use in our homes, the community and in manufacturing. It’s an engineering world –driven by electricity!

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Do you have to wear special clothes?

Yes, I have to wear overalls and if I am working on aconstruction site I wear a hard hat. Good strong shoesor boots are essential and I have to buy these myself.

What type of training do you get?

Most of my work can be regarded as on the jobtraining because there are so many different types of job that I have to do. There is almost always a moreexperienced person around to help if I need it or tocheck the safety and ethical aspect of the work I havecompleted. I go to college for one day each week forboth the theoretical and practical work necessary formy NVQs and City & Guilds qualifications.

Modern Apprenticeship is a very good way ofcombining theory and practice and I am very pleasedby what I have achieved. It has given me the basison which I can build a career in the industry and withfurther study I can become well qualified.

Is there anything about the job thatyou don’t like?

Sometimes I have to work outside in very bad weather.At other times I may have to go into lofts or intoconfined under floor areas which can be very dirtyand dusty.

What are your ideas for your future career?

At the moment I am looking to continue studying forNVQ4 and promotion to supervisory technician level.

Salary information

Wages are very low to begin with and you may have to work on minimum wagesfor some time. Basic pay on apprenticeship is about £6.67 per hour and this willrise to about £10 at the end of training. Qualified electricians earn £30,000.

Getting in

• It is possible to gain employment as a trainee electrical craftsperson straightfrom school and train on the job. However, an alternative entry route is as an apprentice through Foundation and Advanced Modern Apprenticeships(Skillseekers in Scotland). Most apprentices enter between the ages of 16 and 18, but entry is possible up to 25.

• To ensure that apprentices can handle the college and theory aspects of their course, employers usually expect applicants to have three to five GCSE/S grades (1-5) preferably but not necessarily, in English, maths, science and technology. An Intermediate GNVQ/GSVQ Level 2 in a relevantsubject or a BTEC First are good alternatives.

Matthew’s tip

• Before you leave schoolget a good grounding inmaths and English

Matthew’s route

• GCSE.

• Modern Apprenticeship.

• City & Guilds ElectricalImprover.

• NVQ2.

• NVQ3.

Related jobs

Engineer: electricalTechnician: electronicengineeringTechnician:telecommunicationsElectrician: autoElectricity distributionworkerElectrician

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I maintain and routinely test instruments, which monitor,the temperature and control circuits of the reactorand associated systems. The work is of tremendousimportance because of the nuclear safety significanceof the reactor.

In addition, I test the telephone exchanges and the public address system. I also check the controlsand switchgear for all the electrical systems at thepower station.

What tools and instruments do you use?

The normal range of electricians’ tools such asscrewdrivers and spanners, depending on the particularjob that I am doing. I also use a selection of testequipment to calibrate and fault-find on the abovesystems. Test equipment ranges from pressure pumpsto sophisticated electronic instruments.


With nine GCSEs, I joined British Energy as a ModernApprentice in Power Station Engineering Maintenance.About 50% of the engineering staff employed atSizewell are working through, or have completed the MA scheme.

I then went on to obtain City and Guilds in Measurement and Control and a BTEC HND in Electrical and Electronics.

Have you received any specialist training ?

I have had a lot of specialist training on the varioussystems in the power station. Some of this takesplace in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, because the stationis an American design using American systems.

Light electrical technicianKarl Roberts is a light electrical technician – Control andInstrumentation – at Sizewell B Nuclear Power Station in Suffolk.There are 16 nuclear power stations in the UK, eight (includingSizewell) are operated by British Energy and eight by BritishNuclear Fuels (BNFL). Between them they produce a quarter ofBritain's electricity. Sizewell B is the most modern plant producing1200 MW of electricity for the grid system, which transportsthe electricity throughout the UK.

What do you do at Sizewell?

I work on the maintenance of all the instrumentation,protection circuits and telecommunications within the power station. The nuclear reactor, which is thepressurised water type, heats up water to a hightemperature, which, in turn, heats up non-radioactivewater in steam generators (boilers). This steam drivesthe turbines, which make the electricity.

Energy and power

23



We work a 37 hour week, 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m., but in a shutdown refuelling period I work a six day/72 hour week 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Do you have to wear special clothing?

Working in radiation and contamination areas requiresspecial clothing and procedures. As long as theseregulations are complied with there is no health threat,although radiation workers’ health is carefully monitored.

In normal circumstances special clothing consists ofwearing two pairs of overalls, shoe covers and gloves.In exceptional circumstances breathing apparatus maybe used although this is very rare. Nevertheless, thetime spent in radiation areas is kept to an absoluteminimum and is continually monitored.


I enjoy working on the telephone system and meetingpeople I would normally never see. I also get a lot ofsatisfaction when completing a real problem fault job,using the information and skills that I have learned. Itis varied and interesting work with good money andbenefits. We also get excellent continuous training.

The main disadvantage is that sometimes I have towork in radiation and contamination areas.

Salary information

Salaries start at around £12,000, this figure rising to £18,000 with experience.

Senior measurement and control technicians can earn up to £30,000.

Karl’s route

• Nine GCSEs.

• City and Guilds Engineering Manufacture.

• NVQ level 2 Engineering Manufacturing.

• City and Guilds Part 2 Measurement and Control.

• NVQ level 3 Measurement and Control – Power Station.

• Modern Apprenticeship in Engineering Maintenance – Power Station.

• BTEC ONC Electrical and Electronics.

• BTEC HNC Engineering.

• BTEC HND Electrical and Electronics.

Karl’s tips

• A Modern Apprenticeship is the best way to learnpractical engineering.

• It also provides a good springboard for further study.

Getting in

• Entry can be directly from school with a Foundation GNVQ/GSVQ or GCSEs/Sgrades with no specific grades. You should consider joining an establishedelectronics company as a Modern Apprentice leading to NVQ/SVQ level 2.

• Entering from school as an Advanced Modern Apprentice (SkillSeeker inScotland), you would need an Intermediate GNVQ/GSVQ or a minimum of fourGCSEs (A-C/S grades (1-3). These should include maths, science and technology.You should seek a position where you could move through craft level trainingto NVQ/SVQ 3/4.

• With A levels, AS levels, Scottish Highers or Vocational A levels, full and part-time courses are available leading to BTEC National Diploma/Certificate andSCOTVEC Diplomas and Certificates in Measurement and Process Control.

• You can move directly into this type of work with a degree in Engineering with Technology Management.

Related Jobs

Engineering technician: electricalEngineering technician:telecommunications

Measurement and control technicianTechnician: mechanical engineeringEngineering maintenance fitter

24

Armed Forces

How did you get into the Navy?

My GCSEs in maths and English, enabled me to apply for training as a communications technician (CT).I had to pass a selection test at Manchester ArmedForces Careers Office, then a selection interview with a careers adviser, followed by a medical assessment.Finally, I had to receive security clearance.

What are you doing at the moment?

I am undergoing training in the use of Royal Navycommunications equipment. This is complex technologyused to receive and record radio signals from a rangeof frequencies from low to satellite, some of which,are very complex signals. Other equipment is used indirection finding and analysis. We also learn to receiveand transmit morse code at high speed as this is stillused in many areas of the world.

We receive skills training in the computer systemsused in the most complex communications systemsalongside training in the use of the 5.56 mm rifle,which all naval personnel have to be able to use incase of guard duties or emergencies.

How long does this training last?

Fifteen weeks at HMS Collingwood, about fourmonths on one of HM ships followed by two years at Chicksands, which is the Defence IntelligenceSecurity Centre (DISC).

This integrates all intelligence and most securitytraining into a single tri-service organisation. It providestraining in intelligence and security disciplines, andadvice on intelligence and security policy and themaintenance of an operational capability.

What hours do you have to work?

During training I work from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. These times can vary when I have to do duty watch,for example.

Craftsperson: electronicsMartyn Winstanley is a probationary communications technicianin the Royal Navy training at HMS Collingwood in Hampshire.This is a shore-based job and is the Royal Navy’s first fullyintegrated Maritime Warfare School.

What does your job entail?

Communications technicians are trained to interceptand analyse communications from current or potentialenemy forces. We are also trained to provide securecommunications both internally on a ship or a shoreestablishment as well as between friendly ships andshore bases.

Developments in electronics have had a dramatic effect upon the fighting and defence capabilities of our armed forces.For instance, the Royal Navy uses the most advanced technology to protect its ships from air and surface threats. Receiving,recording, direction finding and analysis equipment form part of the world’s most complex communications systems.

25


What are the advantages of the job?

I have job security with great opportunities to travel.At the same time, I am learning a variety of veryuseful skills in a modern environment. Sports facilitiesand adventure training are excellent as is healthcare.Provision of uniform is an added bonus.

And the disadvantages?

Living so far away from my family. Also, I have tocomplete a minimum period of service with one year’snotice if I want to leave – if I ever wanted to leave!

What are your ambitions?

To complete my training successfully. Then, to gainexperience and promotion, possibly as a commissionedofficer at some time in the future. I am looking forwardto travelling and my ideal posting would be with theGibraltar Squadron.

I also hope to be able to undergo linguistic training to be able to act as an interpreter for foreign voicecommunications. This may be in Arabic or Spanish.

Salary information

1st year Under Training (U/T) £11,483. 2nd year U/T £12,917. 3rd year U/T£13,680. Leading Communications Technician £23,418.

Once you have served at sea for at least 18 months you will receive a daily bonus of £4.04. This rises to £10.32 after ten years service at sea.

Naval pay compares well with civilian life. As well as basic pay extra money is offered for special skills, special service (in submarines for example) and for qualifications. Pay increases on promotion and is reviewed annually.

Getting in

• You need to be between 16 and 32 years of age and have acceptable GCSEs(A-C)/S grades (1-3) in English language and maths.

Visit your nearest Armed Forces Careers Office. Telephone: 08456 07 55 55. Details are also available on the website: www.royalnavy.mod.uk.

Related Jobs

Communications operatorCommunications submarine operatorWeapons engineering artificer

Martyn’s tips

• Don’t be afraid to visit your nearest Armed Forces Careers Office or Royal Navywebsite. They are friendly and give you lots of information.

• Make sure that you are prepared to live away from home for long periods.

Martyn’s route

• Nine GCSEs.

• Two A levels.

• A level standard UniversityFoundation Course inScience and Engineering.

• Open University level 2pure mathematics grade3 pass.

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Transport and communications

Before this I spent two months on a secondment toAMEC Rail for my maintenance module. My job thereinvolved doing hands-on signalling maintenance worksuch as signals and points testing.

What type of signalling equipment do you work on?

One of the great features of railway signalling in the UK is the combination of old Victorian signallingsystems and modern electronic equipment that exists on the network.

So, I've had the benefit of working on these differentkinds of signalling equipment, ranging from the basicmechanical interlocking systems to electronic andcomputer-based equipment.

What tools do you use?

These can be categorised into two groups – site tools and office tools. Some used on site are metersfor testing electrical equipment, gauges for measuringpoint machines and data interrogating equipment forelectronic interlocking systems.

Office tools mainly consist of various softwarepackages and databases and Computer Aided Design(CAD) packages.

What was your route into this work?

I completed my GCSEs and A levels and then a Mastersdegree in Mechanical Engineering at Leeds University. I then applied for the Railtrack graduate training schemewhich is now renamed as Network Rail.

Graduate traineeIbrahim Atta-Apau (Ibs) is currently in the second year of the Network Rail engineering graduate training scheme. The scheme is made up of placements or modules, whichprovide engineering and management experience of the railindustry. The scheme lasts two years and a managementposition is offered on completion.

What does the job involve?

It depends on the type of module that I’m doing. Forexample, I’ve recently completed a two-month designmodule during which I was seconded to WestinghouseSystems Ltd on a re-signalling project.

My job involved designing the wiring arrangementsand working out the electric power requirements.Once completed and approved, these plans aresubmitted to the manufacturers, who produce themaccording to the design we require.

This is an area that has benefited enormously from the rapid development of electrical and electronic engineering. All transportation systems use electronically-based communications to ensure safe and efficient operation, whether it is air traffic control, modern railway signalling or the bus driver with his or her mobile phone.

27


What training do you receive?

The Network Rail graduate training scheme offerspractical experience in the main areas of the railindustry such as design, maintenance, installation andproject engineering. We also get training on tractionand rolling stock, which are the locomotives, carriagesand wagons.

This is combined with a number of technical andmanagement training courses which provide a soundbalance of engineering and business experience. Oncompletion these will enable me to qualify forChartered Engineer status.


A day at the office is mainly 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.although some flexibility is allowed. Working hourson site can vary and it is not unusual to do shift andweekend working if the project demands it.

What are the advantages of your job?

I’m encouraged to do placements with differentcompanies in the rail industry and, providing it'srelevant to the Institute of Mechanical Engineers(ImechE) objectives for achieving my chartered status,a placement can even be done outside the industry.

Another great feature is that I’m given the choice of specialising in one of three railway engineeringdisciplines. These are Track Engineering, Signallingand Electrification and Plant. The type of degreestudied doesn't restrict the choice of discipline. Forinstance, I'm a mechanical engineering graduatespecialising in an electrical engineering discipline.

What do you like best about your job?

Probably the fact that I have a great deal of controlover how my training develops. For instance I canlengthen or shorten modules where I see fit, providingI can demonstrate that I've acquired the key skills.

Salary information

Graduate entrants usually start at technician level on £18,000 with increases as experience is gained. Experienced engineers earn around £35,000 and theaverage income for qualified chartered engineers is £45,000.

Getting in

Entry is normally by joining Network Rail, the company responsible for all thetrack and the signals on the UK mainland. It engages contractors such as AMECwho employ electrical and electronics engineers and technicians.

Apart from graduate entry, Network Rail and its contractors have numeroustraining programmes for Modern Apprentices, Advanced Modern Apprentices and Skillseekers (in Scotland).

Ibs’ tip

I’d advise a potential engineering graduate to be both open minded and willingto learn about all engineering disciplines available through the scheme. This isbecause there are important links between each engineering discipline.

Ibs’ route

• GCSEs and A levels.

• MEng degree in Mechanical Engineering at Leeds University.

• Network Rail graduate training scheme.

• Taking Institute of Railway Signalling Engineers (IRSE) examinations.

• Working towards IMechE chartered status

Related Jobs

Electronics engineering technicianMechanical engineering technician Engineer: electrical

Engineer: electronicEngineer: mechanicalSignalling technician

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The practical work is done on the simulators withone-to-one tuition from instructors (all of whom havebeen operational). Simulators are classroom replicasof actual control rooms. Each run on the simulator is about half an hour long and at the end of eachmodule we are assessed.

Do you train at other airports?

Yes. After the first six months I was posted to anairport for six weeks and given the opportunity for somelive training. I also spent a week on a British Airwayscourse to give me an insight into how the airline is run.

The highlight of the course so far has been the two-week flying course that gave me 15 hours of flyingtime. This helped me to appreciate the demands placedon the pilot when trying to comply with our instructionsat the same time as controlling the aircraft.

How long is the course?

Generally it takes between 12-18 months. Aftercompleting the course all trainees get posted to apermanent unit (usually the new Area Control Centreat Swanwick near Southampton or they might go to other airports).


A typical college day would be a mixture of lecturesand simulator runs. The on-the-job training at theend of a few of the modules helps to break up thecourses and gives some welcome relief from theintense pressure at the college.

Trainee air traffic controllerJon Lowrie is potentially responsible for the lives of hundreds of people! As a trainee air traffic control officer, he is employedby National Air Traffic Services (NATS) which ensures that aircraftflying in UK airspace, and over the eastern part of the NorthAtlantic, are safely separated. Jon’s training includes a two-weekflying course to understand the problems of airline pilots.

What does an air traffic controller do?

Controllers are based at air traffic control centres or airports and control the movement of individualaircraft in the airspace under their surveillance. All aircraft, civil and military, must fly in accordancewith instructions received from the ground to avoidaccidents. Controllers keep in radio contact with pilotswho in turn must obey instructions given to them.

What is involved in training?

We have both practical and theory tuition. The theorywork is generally carried out in the classroom withlectures given by a variety of instructors, with bothwritten and oral assessments for each module.


29



The only equipment we really use are the simulatorsin the operations rooms. They are designed to besimilar to the equipment found operationally, withthe radar display showing the position of each aircraft,the flight progress strip board showing the aircraftdetails and the relevant phone lines to enable us to communicate with the pilot.

The exercises on the radar display are all run from aseparate room so that when we are on the simulatorsit really is very realistic.


At college we work Monday to Friday, from 8.30 a.m.till 4.15 p.m. We also get some study time during theday. When we actually get posted to a unit, we willstart shift work. A typical working week would be six days on (two early mornings, two day shifts, two night shifts) and then four days off.


The advantages of the job are that it is very challengingand keeps me feeling mentally fit. It is also very diverseand I find it rewarding. The pay is good and we benefitfrom discounted flights and holidays.

The disadvantages could be the shift work (which is really a matter of personal preference) and alsothe fact that you are responsible for the lives ofhundreds of people.

Getting in

• National Air Traffic Services is the main employer and details of their operationand job vacancies are on their website at www.nats.co.uk/recruitment. Forair traffic control vacancies you need at least two A levels/H grades, one ofwhich should be in English and preferably one in communications.

• There may be opportunities with four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) includingEnglish, or with an Intermediate GNVQ/GSVQ.

• Vacancies may exist at other airports and application should be made to them directly.

Jon’s tips

• Find a job where youcan use your existingskills and develop newones all the time.

• Ensure that studies after A level are relevantto your chosen career.

Jon’s route

• GCSEs.

• A levels.

• Company training.

Related jobs

RAF technician

Salary information

Trainee air traffic controllersstart at around £26,000. Thestarting salary for air trafficcontrol officers is between£33,000 and £35,000,depending on where theyare based. Supervisors andsenior controllers earnaround £60,000.

30


What exactly does your job involve?

My main responsibility is to help the planners with anyquery they may have with the planning programme.My other main responsibility is to administer thedatabase that contains all the technical information,which makes up a network.

I also develop user support material such as answersto frequently asked questions. I plan integration withother systems and I undertake acceptance testing fornew releases and bug fixes in the software.

Why do you need to do these simulations?

Development in this field is now so rapid that newservices have to be planned well before they comeinto operation. Planning involves ensuring that basestations for a new service are placed at the correctpoints and all areas are covered.

If a base station is built in a location without knowingbeforehand exactly where or how well it will providecoverage this could be a very costly.

So, we use the tools to set up a simulated model of what we want to do. We then work on the modelto iron out operational problems.

Where do you work?

Being a support engineer my job is mainly office based.I have access to all the geographical and demographicdata along with the software programs on my PC.

However, the planning engineers do visit their basestations to perform various tests.

Engineer: electronicRuki Manicks works for 3 UK, one of the five companiesawarded licences to supply third generation (3G) mobile phoneservice in the UK. This mobile phone network is capable ofproviding voice, image and video services. As a radio planningtools engineer, Ruki provides support to the radio network designengineers with their planning software.

What is a radio planning tool?

A radio-planning tool is a specialist software program,which allows network designers to simulate how aplanned mobile phone network will behave when it comes into operation. For example, how it will beaffected by the different terrain of cities and towns or hills, valleys, open land or forest.

31



As part of my university course I took a year out towork in industry. I worked for a telecommunicationscompany as a placement student and enjoyed it somuch that I decided to specialise in communicationsduring my final year.

What about ongoing training?

We are constantly updating our knowledge. I havebeen on a radio network planning course, which isvery useful and interesting. We also undergo courseson new releases, changes of features, or new methodsof planning that are incorporated into our software.


Usually I work 8.30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. but the hoursare very flexible. However, if there are deadlines thenI tend to work very long hours in order to finish thetask. When we need to implement changes the workmust be done out of hours. This is to minimise thedisruption to the business. In this case I may worklate into the night. This happens about once a month.


I get to work on the cutting edge of technology inthe mobile industry. This is very exciting as the fieldof radio frequency engineering is huge and there arelots of new and interesting facts to learn. Also, I enjoythe working environment, as the people I work withare great fun.

I am very proud to be working on the launch of the first third generation mobile phone networkin the country.

Salary information

Graduate entrants usually start at around £18,000 with increases as experienceand qualifications are gained. Experienced electronics engineers earn around£35,000 and the average income for qualified chartered electronics engineers is £45,000.

Getting in

• Ruki took the direct route into this type of work from GCSE/S level to anengineering degree via a BTEC National Diploma in Electrical and MechanicalEngineering. She also took a year out to work in industry, which is always useful.

• There are many other routes, such as obtaining a Modern Apprenticeship(Skillseekers in Scotland) with a telecommunications company and studyingfor NVQ/SVQs, or entering the industry as a graduate trainee. The work is veryIT related so qualifications in that area would also form the basis for entry.

• Vocational GCSEs or A/S Levels provide a good background. Once a job hasbeen obtained in electronics or IT further study can be done by attending part-time courses at college or through Open University.

Ruki’s tips

• Higher level maths and physics will definitely be an asset .

• A career in communications can be great fun and very rewarding provided you have a tenacious personality.

• The number of women in engineering is still very low in the UK. This is especially true in certain fields like electronics, communication and electrical engineering.

Ruki’s route

• GCSEs.

• BTEC National Diploma in Electrical andMechanical Engineering.

• BEng (Hons) in Electrical and ElectronicsEngineering withDiploma in Industrial Studies.

Related Jobs

Engineer: electrical Engineer: mechanical Engineer: aerospace Clinical engineer

Engineer: marineTechnician: electronic engineeringMeasurement and control technician

32

What can I do starting with GCSEs/S grades?

With GCSEs/S grades you can take up aModern Apprenticeship or Skillseekers inScotland. These have been developed byindustry as a way of training young peopleto work effectively in their early careers.They are now highly valued by employersas they enable young people to achievehigher level skills and vocational qualificationsrelated directly to jobs.

How do I become a Modern Apprentice?

Modern Apprentices are normally inemployment and undertake both on and offthe job training throughout their apprenticeship,possibly including attendance at college ona day release basis. Apprenticeships normallylast between 18 months to two years. Theyare primarily designed to attract capableyoung people between the ages of 16 and24 who have the ability and motivation toundergo a training programme that willlead to a Level 2 NVQ.

Skillseekers is also a workplace-basedtraining programme. It leads to ScottishVocational Qualifications (SVQs) and allowsyoung people aged 16 to 24 to earn awage while they learn. At the same time,participants get valuable work experience.

How do I apply?

Ultimately the selection of an apprenticerests with employers to ensure that theyget the right person for their business andmany employers specify the number andtype of GCSEs/S grades they require.

What if I have A levels orScottish Highers?

Many students, after GCSEs/S grades chooseA levels/H grades as their starting point onthe way to a career as a professionalengineer. Others prefer to study for EdExcelor SQA vocational qualifications. Alongsidetraditional A levels there are now vocationalqualifications, (previously known as theAdvanced GNVQ/GSVQ) in subjects such asengineering, built environment and informationtechnology. These can be taken as a single

or double A level and can be mixed withtraditional A levels to give a package ofuseful qualifications.

If you’re between 16 and 25 you also have the option of going on to an AdvancedModern Apprenticeship available in manyengineering-related employment sectors,such as manufacturing, construction, transportand utilities such as electricity and gas.

A Modern Apprenticeship can also be aroute into higher education, either through anormal degree course or through some newwork-related programmes that are beginningto appear, such as Foundation degrees andGraduate Apprenticeships.

What about higher education?

All the qualifications mentioned above can giveyou entry into higher education courses inengineering. There is a wide range of coursesto choose from and it is important to ensurethat you get the right one. Whichever oneyou choose, the quickest route is to obtain adegree or equivalent which is accredited toEngineering Council standards by one of theprofessional engineering institutions.

Now YOU ask the questions

Getting in – now YOU ask the questions


33

Working in the armed forces

Working in computers and IT

Working in building andconstruction

Working in engineering

Working in the motor industry

(Published by Connexions – also available onwww.connexions-direct.com/publications)

Occupations

(includes salary information)

(available on www.connexions-direct.com/jobs4u)

It All Adds Up to Engineering

Earning and Learning in Engineering

(Both published by Science, Engineering andManufacturing Technologies Alliance)p 0800 282167 i semta.org.uk

Further readingGetting a Degree in Engineering

(Published by ECIS, the Engineering CareersInformation Service)

A Career as an ElectricalEngineer

(Information pack) – The Institution ofElectrical Engineers Schools Department.

Engineering & Technology 2002

– Inside Careers and the Engineering Council

Useful addressesEngineering and Technology Board10 Maltravers StreetLondon WC2R 3ERp 020 7240 7333i www.etechb.co.uk

The Engineering CareersInformation Service (ECIS) 14 Upton Road WatfordHertfordshireWD18 0JT p 0800 282167 Email: [email protected] i www.enginuity.org.uk

The Institution of Incorporated Engineers (IIE) Savoy Hill HouseSavoy HillLondon WC2R OBS p 020 7836 3357 Email: [email protected] i www.iie.org.uk

The Institution of Electrical EngineersMichael Faraday HouseSix Hills Way StevenageHertfordshire SG1 2AY p 01438 313311 i iee.org.uk

Institution of Mechanical Engineers Schools/University Liaison Service 1 Birdcage WalkWestminsterLondon SW1H 9JJ p 020 7222 7899 Email: education@imeche org.uk i www.imeche.org.uk

Women's Engineering Society22 Old Queen StreetLondon, SW1H 9HPp 020 7233 1974Email: [email protected] www.wes.org.uk

Construction Careers ServiceConstruction Industry TrainingBoard (CITB)Bircham NewtonKing’s LynnNorfolk PE31 6RH p 01485 577577i www.citb.org.uk

Written by Bob Lees

Thanks to everyone who contributed to thisbook. Thanks especially to the Women’sEngineering Society, the Engineering Council,the Institution of Incorporated Engineers andthe Engineering Careers Information Service.

http://www.citb.org.uk

http://www.wes.org.uk

http://www.imeche.org.uk

http://iee.org.uk

http://www.iie.org.uk

http://www.enginuity.org.uk

http://www.etechb.co.uk

http://semta.org.uk

http://www.connexions-direct.com/jobs4u

http://www.connexions-direct.com/publications

©Crown copyright 2003

Produced by VT Careers Management for Connexions.

Extracts from this document may be reproduced for

non-commercial education or training purposes, on

condition that the source is acknowledged.

Price £5.00

You can get more copies of this booklet from:

DfES PublicationsPO Box 99SudburySuffolkCO10 2SN

Phone: 0845 60 222 60Fax: 01787 375920

ISBN: 0-86110-856-6

Working in electrical & electronic engineering is also available on the internet:

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