FAQs
Find answers to common questions about Subco’s engineering services, on-demand delivery model, fixed-price work packages, and project visibility through our platform.
Customer FAQs
How does Subco guarantee fast lead times and consistent engineering quality?
We assign tasks to engineers based on technical fit, experience, and availability. Each engineer follows standardised processes and work instructions, and we can review outputs before delivery to ensure quality and consistency.
What measures are in place to protect intellectual property when engineers use our standards?
Engineers only access the standards relevant to their task via secure virtual desktops. Files cannot be saved locally, and IP is protected in the same way we safeguard our own standards.
Can I speak directly to the engineer working on my project?
No—Subco provides a single point of contact for clarity and accountability. All communication flows through the platform.
If I can’t contact the engineer directly, how do I request quick changes?
You can modify scope within the platform. Your project lead will relay updates to the engineer immediately.
What happens if the engineer’s solution isn’t what we expected?
Projects can be phased. For complex scopes, we start with concept selection (FEED study) before detailed design begins, ensuring alignment at every stage.
Can Subco work to our internal standards instead of yours?
Yes—we often use client standards. This may require extra setup time, which we reflect in pricing and timelines.
We don’t have internal standards or drawing templates—can you still help?
Absolutely. Our own standards allow us to respond quickly, provide accurate scopes, and maintain consistent quality.
How do you ensure designs meet class requirements if you don’t interact with class directly?
Our standards align with major class rules. If formal sign-off is needed, we provide a compliance report mapping our calculations to class requirements.
If our supply chain says a design won’t work, how fast can you change it?
You can pause, modify, or cancel projects in real time through the platform. Scope changes are tracked, and you only pay for completed work.
How often will I see project progress updates?
Updates are live and task-based. Any risk of delay is flagged immediately.
Can I cancel a project, and what happens if I do?
Yes—cancel anytime. You’ll receive all completed deliverables and only pay for finished tasks. Restarting later is simple.
Is it easy and affordable to change the scope mid-project?
Yes—scope changes are handled in-platform with minimal disruption. Costs depend on tasks paused or added, and an admin fee applies.
If a project is running late, how do you get it back on track?
We redistribute tasks to other qualified engineers to accelerate delivery. Real-time tracking means delays are flagged early.
Can you handle projects with very tight deadlines?
We assess engineer availability instantly. If full scope isn’t possible, we suggest alternatives like reduced scope or adjusted timelines.
Can you take on large projects where only part of the scope is defined?
Yes—we fix prices for known work and provide indicative costs for undefined elements. As details emerge, we convert estimates into fixed-price deliverables.
How often can I request design reviews during the project?
Live updates are standard. For conceptual tasks, reviews can be scheduled upfront or added later through the platform.
Engineer FAQs
Will I get a guaranteed amount of work every week?
No guarantees—but we match tasks to your availability and skills. You can update your capacity anytime.
How are pay rates calculated, and do they vary by experience or location?
Rates are fixed per task and based on complexity. Experienced engineers often complete tasks faster, earning more effectively. Rates align with regional norms.
Do I need to give notice for time off?
No formal notice—but your profile score improves with longer availability indications and drops if tasks are disrupted.
Do I need my own software licences?
No—our virtual environment provides all required licences.
What equipment and setup do I need to start?
A computer with stable internet, plus a headset and camera for video calls. Fast connectivity ensures smooth remote work.
What security checks are required before joining?
We verify identity, address, and qualifications, and run AML checks for high-risk cases.
Is work on Subco inside or outside IR35?
All work is outside IR35. You’ll handle multiple scopes across projects, with clear invoicing.
When will I get paid after completing a task?
Once a task is verified, payment is triggered within five working days. You can batch tasks into larger invoices.
What if a task takes longer than expected?
Tasks are priced based on typical durations. If you take longer, you still receive the fixed fee. Feedback helps us improve estimates.
Can I reject a task after accepting it?
Yes—contact the project lead. Frequent rejections lower your profile score.
How is my engineer profile score calculated?
Scores reflect availability, on-time delivery, quality, responsiveness, and acceptance/rejection ratios. Higher scores unlock perks like checker or trainer status.
How are tasks assigned to engineers?
Our algorithm matches tasks to your skills, experience, and availability.
Can I earn more than the standard rate?
Yes—urgent tasks and trainer roles carry multipliers linked to your profile score.
Can I work for other companies while on Subco?
Yes—flexibility is built in. Just avoid rejecting accepted tasks and keep your availability updated.
I’m a recent graduate—can I learn while working?
Yes—we assign non-critical tasks and offer optional mentoring from experienced engineers for a fee share.
Engineering, on demand
Subco delivers high-quality engineering work, on demand. We help companies deliver critical packages of work - without the delays, overhead, or commitment of hiring. Whether it’s a capacity or capability gap, we provide defined, fixed-price solutions that keep projects moving.
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