Jake, Project Engineer

How long have you worked for Wessex Water?

I started in July 2019 – initially on a 1-year placement before returning full time in June 2021 after completing my degree.

How did you apply?

I heard about the role through my university careers page and applied online.

What attracted you to Wessex Water in the first place?

The mix of office and site-based work. I was looking for a placement year during my time at university that would give me a mix of practical experience and the chance to use the design and theoretical knowledge I had built up during my studies. During my placement I thoroughly enjoyed the challenges that go with working on operational and live processes and developing the means to complete the works. So when Wessex Water offered me the chance to return when my studies finished I jumped at the opportunity.

What does your job entail and what do you most enjoy about the role?

I currently work as a Project Engineer which requires me to be the engineering point of contact on most of my schemes. My role requires me to be the link between design and construction, working with our consultants throughout the design process to ensure the best design is put forward. Then I work with the site team to ensure the design is followed and explain why things have been design in certain ways.

I enjoy the challenges that come with the role, learning new processes and techniques and being able to implement my ideas and see things through from a drawing on some paper to a physical asset in front of you.

Tell us about your team and what you like most about working with your colleagues at Wessex Water.

I work in a team based out at Avonmouth. We are delivering a new site to work adjacent to the current works, as well as delivering a programme of capital maintenance to improve the existing assets on site.

Working in a team that works together day in day our has is benefits and difficulties normally, but they people at Avonmouth are so friendly and helpful that there are no issues. Everyone is willing to help out where they can and impart their wisdom from years of experience. I have found that is the rule of all the people I have come across in Wessex.

Why do you think Wessex Water is a great place to work?

As previously mentioned, the variety in the role makes it a constantly changing and interesting environment to work in. Wessex is always looking at ways to improve and embrace emerging technologies and systems.

They are supportive in individual improvement, I am currently working towards my Incorporated Engineer status with support from the company as well as studying towards a masters, with work funding my studies and giving me the time off during my work week to complete it.

What do you enjoy most when not working?

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my partner and son, out exploring our local area. We have recently moved from Plymouth to Bristol so we are all excited to explore a new area. I am also a keen cyclist and enjoy being out on my bike. Finally I do some work working on festival sites, working as a member of stage crew, loading in bands and swapping them over on stage.