There is no typical day in this role as you are reacting to both internal and external customers. Most days will however include site visits to discuss customer requirements for their electricity services and office based work to prepare the designs and quotations. The customer requirements can vary widely from a single phase, straight forward service installation, to those requiring industrial sized high capacity network reinforcement.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
Critical Path Analysis for both JE and the applicant
Assertiveness and good communication
Good problem solving skills
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I was employed in an admin role within the Energy Division of Jersey Electricity, where I was exposed to Electrical Engineering in an applied role. I researched my study options and was able to remain on Island to complete my study with the support of JE.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
I greatly enjoy the diversity the role offers me. I could be on site for a new build where the service installation will be straight forward and textbook. This could be followed by trying to plan the best way to replace a substandard service, where space is limited. Or modelling the existing network to establish the extent of the reinforcement required, to provide an industrial service to a customer.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
Not negative, more of an observation of a male dominated industry. Initially, some people can seem surprised that a female engineer will be planning their required works, as they are used to working with a male engineer.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
Once joining JE I researched my distance learning options and completed a HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering through Teeside University, which I completed in 2015. Until recently, I had been pursuing my Operational Authorisations for work on the Live Network, which I will resume upon my return from maternity leave. I hope to continue my distance learning, once I have obtained sufficient industry experience to allow me access to study for the MEng.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
I am only just starting my career in Electrical Engineering, and there are many opportunities to apply my knowledge and skills to further my career. Additionally, there are countless ways to expand my knowledge and training throughout the industry.
