Aaron Jones - Assistant Civil Engineer

Why did you apply for the scheme?

I live in a nearby valley and know the area from my time studying at USW. Both family and friends work for local authorities and my previous work experience with them has helped me to find out this is a sector I would like to work in and be a part of.

I was looking for a career not just a job when I left university, I wanted something local and that would potentially last a lifetime but include a variety of different day to day tasks. The council offered a vast amount of experience to be gained and progression through the different areas I could work in within the engineering sector.

Highlights: As part of the scheme I started as a graduate within the Strategic Projects team, this allowed me to undertake a variety of roles and tasks throughout the different engineering disciplines. From this I was able to work with the Flood Risk Management team where eventually they offered me a full time Assistant Civil Engineer post in the department.

Within my role I have been able to undertake a variety of different tasks and projects, seeing them through from planning stages to construction completion and both on site and office based working environments. Whilst working for RCT they have provided me with an opportunity to further study and develop my learning by putting me on a 2 year Project Management course at Cardiff Metropolitan University.

Recommendations to Applicants: Speak to the council representative or department manager before applying to get a better understanding of how the local authority works and what the role you will be doing includes.

I would attend if possible any open days or council exhibitions to be able to speak with staff first hand and help to make a good impression.

Before your interview read the relevant departments legislation and online material to give yourself a head start for any questions that may come up in interview. In my experience competencies do not have to relate directly to the role you’re applying for but just need to demonstrate you can do what the question is asking from you.

I’d recommend to anyone graduating to consider a career with RCT CBC.