Katherine Ward – Highway Engineering Technician
Major Projects Team, Transport Development Group
Please give a brief outline of the main duties of your job.
I help with the co-ordination and implementation of major new highway schemes funded through the Local Transport Plan.
This involves checking through detailed highway design drawings, to ensure current design and safety standards are met and consulting with the public and other affected parties before planning permission can be granted. I also attend project meetings, both for my team and to represent the team on wider issues.
What skills and qualifications do you need to do your job?
It is important to be confident and approachable – the ability to interact and converse easily with people at all levels is vital. I also have to use my initiative and judgement to recognise what's important, identify sensitive issues and take appropriate action.
Good organisation and planning skills are also essential to be able to plan ahead to meet priorities with competing deadlines.
I obtained my Higher National Certificate in Civil Engineering in July 2008.
How long have you worked in this role?
I’ve been doing this job for two years.
Where did you work before you did this job?
I worked in the Finance Department at Somerset County Council.
What's the best thing about your job?
Each project is different and presents new and challenging issues. I enjoy stretching myself and finding solutions to the challenges that arise. I like the interaction with the public and colleagues internally and in partner organisations. Seeing a project through from the conceptual idea right through to the finished project has added job satisfaction.
Which aspects of your job do you find the most challenging?
When technical issues arise I can find myself presented with conflicting opinions from colleagues and/or members of the public. Having to make a technically sound decision sometimes may not be the perceived preferred option by members of the public or other involved parties.
Do you have any career aspirations for the future?
I am keen to build on and further my experience within the field of Highway Engineering for Somerset County Council. I am eager to become a registered Engineering Technician with a Professional Engineering Body.
What would you say to someone to encourage them to work for Somerset County Council?
Public Sector organisations such as Somerset County Council have good working conditions such as Annual Leave Entitlement, a competitive Pension Scheme and flexible working hours. Somerset County Council is flexible and adaptable to individual needs. Somerset has a good and open equalities policy and is good at ensuring Continuous Professional Development and training for staff.
