Job Profile Questionnaire

Sean Ryan - Engineer

Highways Structural Maintenance

Describe a typical working day
As a highway engineer, no working day can be described as typical.

On a busy day, I can have as many as six 'live' sites throughout the borough ranging from a small job only a few square metres in size, worth a couple of hundred pounds, up to major reconstruction schemes - several thousand square metres in size, with a value of £1/4million.

Duties, on site, involve the organisation and checking of all aspects of a road scheme including site safety (for the public and operatives on site), working methods, materials used, dimensions/depths/sizes are complied with and also quality checks of the finished product. Level surveying is also required on most sites.

In the office, I have to organise and programme the order of works, contractors to carry out those works, supervision using clerks of works based in the office and all the administration work that goes with all of this.

What attracted you to working for us?
At the time I joined Tameside Council, I was attracted by the fact that it was local to my home (I live in Ashton) and also the job I applied for offered a good salary, good working condition/hours and the opportunity of additional studies.

What advice would you give someone looking for opportunities in this area?
Civil Engineering, as a career can be entered into at any level, from labourer on site right through to graduate engineers, straight from university. Opportunities are numerous and very varied. Progression through the ranks will obviously be quicker, the higher the qualifications one has. Anyone considering a career in Civil Engineering, of any discipline, should seriously consider studying Civil Engineering at college and/or University.

What qualifications or experience are essential for this kind of work?
For trainees/junior entrants, engineering disciplines require a good grasp of mathematics, so anyone interested in a career in civil engineering needs good maths skills. Most employers would require a minimum of 5 GSCE's, grade C or above. The actual practical side of things is easily learned with experience and further studies in civil engineering disciplines broadens your knowledge.

Further study is necessary to progress through the 'ranks' of engineering. From Technician (NC or equivalent), through Incorporated Engineer status (HNC or equivalent) to, ultimately, Chartered Engineer status (minimum requirement is a degree) - all of which require increasing amounts of practical experience in order to qualify.

The ability to problem solve/think on your feet, particularly at short notice whilst on site, is a good trait to have for any engineer.

What is the best thing about your work?
Variety!

No two days are ever the same. And every day is a challenge - both on site and in the office. I am constantly kept on my toes - things can change from one hour to the next.

What opportunities does your local authority provide you that you cannot get elsewhere?
Personal and professional development is definitely encouraged. The council has put me through college to gain higher qualifications. I have also attended numerous courses over the years to develop myself personally, all ultimately for the benefit of the authority. Employee development and training is part of the corporate business plan, so everyone should benefit from additional training.