Noelia Lawson
Site Engineer, JN Bentley
Sarah McConchie
Site Engineer, JN Bentley
Boasting a proud legacy of talent development, opportunities to learn and progress, as well as gaining professional qualifications and chartership, are integral to culture and success.
Hear from two Site Engineers who initially joined JN Bentley (JNB) as placement students and secured financial sponsorship for their final year of study to return as part of the company’s graduate scheme.
Support and career progression
After undertaking a six-week internship in QES (quality, environmental and safety), Noella Lawson was invited back to take part in our placement programme – completing rotations in consultancy with our partner company and onsite. Having enjoyed her experiences, Noella accepted an offer to return, which gave her the security of a job offer after she had completed her studies.
“It’s really important for me to feel like I am continually developing,” Noella says. “Being onsite every day offers that, as I’m being constantly challenged on everything from problem-solving and technical skills to management and logistical planning.”
She adds: “With support from a number of people to gain the necessary experience, and access to structured, centred learning, I have started to sign off some attributes towards that already. Long-term, I want to move into a site management role, and I am enjoying building up all the experience and knowledge to make that happen. Development and progression are very much part of the culture at JN Bentley, so I know I will be supported to achieve.”
Development and progression
are very much part of the culture.
On-site opportunities and growth
Sarah McConchie, Site Engineer, shares: “I love working on site, seeing the progress of the work and then the finished product. I can’t imagine wanting to work anywhere else.” Having initially joined on a placement year while studying civil engineering, Sarah returned as a graduate in 2022. The structure of placements at JNB means engineers get the chance to gain experience both in design and onsite, which gave Sarah valuable insight into what was important for her career.
“Trying out a placement year not only helped shape my long-term career plans but also provided an insight into the culture of the company. I really enjoyed the friendly atmosphere as much as working alongside talented people who are driven to do a good job. Everyone seemed genuinely happy to be here and help develop others,” she says.
“My favourite project to date was an emergency scheme that I worked on from start to finish,” Sarah adds. “I loved the challenge of leading the project from an engineering point of view — having to be on top of everything and learning quickly. My confidence has grown, and I’m really grateful for the opportunity.”
JN Bentley Ltd is part of the global management, engineering and development consultancy Mott MacDonald, offering its clients full design and construction services throughout the UK.
