I Got Hired: Mechanical Design Engineer at UK Atomic Energy Authority

Posted on: 24 November 2023 by Richard Finch in Graduate stories

Alex Fieldsend is a Class of 2022 Mechanical Engineering graduate, now working as a Mechanical Design Engineer at UK Atomic Energy Authority.

As part of my 3rd-year project, designing a rover for nuclear applications, I was researching industrial experts in the field. RACE - a department of the UK Atomic Energy Authority - was at the forefront of this area, so I got in contact and invited them to be part of the project.

I then found that they had a summer placement program, so I applied and was accepted for the scheme.

I really enjoyed the placement and was extremely fortunate to be offered part-time work at UKAEA whilst completing my integrated master's. After my master's, I joined full-time as a graduate.  As part of the graduate scheme, we are in control of our own career progression, supported by the Early Careers team.

This has allowed me to try several different disciplines - such as an Operator on the JET fusion reactor and Engineering Analyst for the Office of the Chief Engineer, on top of my usual role as a Mechanical Design Engineer.      

Taking part in the learning and development training that is available. There are constant opportunities to develop skills with dozens of internal and external courses accessible to all, and 20% of our time is allocated to our development.

A highlight would be the week-long leadership development course that was provided for all the graduates in Devon.

Trying to manage applications for graduate schemes alongside my final year study was a real challenge as it can be a time-consuming process.

My advice to current students:

1. Start early! It’s never too early to start planning the next step after uni, especially as your final year will be pretty hectic. Start planning applications and CV’s well in advance to take the pressure off. The CV support service on campus is great to help you get started.
2. Get involved! Whilst at uni, try to engage in conferences, placements, and activities relevant to the field that you wish to enter. No matter how big or small, this is extremely important to employers as it shows you are enthusiastic and engaged in the field. It will also enable you to make new connections in the industry and lead to further opportunities.
3. Practice makes perfect! Interviewing is a skill that is learned through practice. Use online resources such as handshake, research the company before the interview, and learn some key facts about their business. A top tip is to think of examples where you have demonstrated skills such as teamwork and conflict resolution.
4. It’s your career! Once you start your career, try different roles and skills to find what you enjoy and importantly, what you don’t enjoy. There are always new and exciting opportunities available. Make sure you actively pursue them.