I joined the Lactalis Group in November 2000, when I responded to an advertisement for a Network Engineer that appeared in the computing press.
During my induction, a colleague from the I.T. Network department told me about the various facets of the job. Also, the Lactopole visit and the various presentations made by the I.T. departments gave me a better understanding of the working environment (people I'd be working with, the Group's priorities, projects etc.).
What does a Network Engineer do on a daily basis ?
I work in a team of 5 and we share so-called 'recurring' tasks, i.e. administration, monitoring and supervision of operational networks.
As regards the engineering side, each of us is in charge of technical projects in clearly-defined areas :
- Network infrastructure/architecture for taking the Group's orders
- Physical and logistics network infrastructure for the various sites, both in France and abroad
- Access to mobile computers
- Safe extranet access
All of these assignments require me to carry out needs analyses, draw up standards and train internal and external colleagues.
Which skills did you need to develop to carry out these tasks ?
This job requires technical knowledge, diligence, the ability to work with others and mobility. During the 5 years I have spent in the job I have become more independent, acquired an increased level of responsibility and worked in technically stimulating environments.
And after Network Engineering ?
I was able to go straight into this job as my I.T. Engineering course at university specialised in networks. I was then progressively entrusted with assignments that had a management dimension. I currently have no plans to take on any further responsibility. However, the size of the Group offers a huge number of interesting opportunities, and I would be particularly interested in a position related to I.T. security.
