At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a three-year rotation programme, gaining hands-on experience in diverse operations roles.
- Company: Abbott, a leading healthcare company with a commitment to innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, mentorship, and tailored training for your career development.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for personal growth and a chance to work on impactful projects.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in operations while experiencing international diversity and professional growth.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s/Master’s in relevant fields with strong analytical and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Our Operations Professional Development Program (OPDP) is an entry‑level, three‑year rotation program designed to offer hands‑on experience while promoting personal and professional growth. As a participant from the UK, you will begin the program and first two rotations in your home country at our Witney site, then you will complete your final‑year rotation abroad. Upon completion, PDP participants graduate into their next full‑time position in their home country, continuing to grow their career and contributing as an Abbott professional using the foundation of skills, experience and network developed during their time in the program.
As a OPDP participant you will:
- Be a regular full‑time employee of Abbott and qualify for the same competitive salary and benefits as other Abbott employees.
- Assume full responsibility and contribute as a functional operations professional.
- Rotate through three challenging, demanding, and diverse assignments.
- Develop a well‑rounded skill set through assignments in the established learning tracks for the program.
- Relocate abroad for the final assignment to experience diversity and operations.
- Work within multiple business units during your rotational program at Abbott.
- Have the opportunity to explore possible crossover assignments within other Operation Programs (i.e. Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Operational Excellence).
- Be paired with a mentor to assist in the development of your operations career.
- Create a personalized growth plan to serve as a step‑by‑step guide towards the experiences, knowledge, and resources necessary to achieve your career goals.
- Obtain training customized to support your individual growth and development.
- Report to a department manager in each assignment who will oversee your day‑to‑day responsibilities.
In the UK, the OPDP rotation is based on annual rotations over the three year Program. Your career with us will commence working directly with the FreeStyle Libre sensor product, learning the manufacturing process. A series of rotations across functions will follow in Technical, Operations Planning, Quality Assurance, Project Management or Engineering. No assignment is repeated; each is with a different Assignment Manager. OPDP participants starting the program in Summer 2026 will complete a three‑year program with the final international (overseas) rotation ending in June 2029.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree/Master’s in Engineering (Automation/Mechanical/Electrical), Automation, Biotechnology, Pharmacy, Food Science, or related disciplines (grade 2:1 or higher).
- Interest in pursuing a career in Operations – Production, Engineering, Plant Quality, etc.
- Track record of outstanding academic performance and co‑curricular activities.
- Has the capacity to apply skills and knowledge to address operational challenges and add value to the business.
- Has strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
- Possess strong interpersonal, leadership & communication skills.
- Eager to learn and has the flexibility and willingness to work on different projects.
- Previous work experience in internship or co‑op work experience.
PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING:
- YOUR OWN RIGHT TO WORK IN THE UK: We welcome applications from candidates already eligible to work in the UK or those that can apply for a visa granting permission to work in the UK (e.g. dependent visas, ancestry etc.) that do not require sponsorship from Abbott. You will be asked to share proof of this prior to receiving any offer of employment.
- You will need to remain on your current visa / permit. If for any reason your visa status changes, we will be unable to offer you sponsorship in the future.
- The Company would not fund any subsequent non‑sponsored visa applications - you will be solely responsible for paying and maintaining your own right to work in the UK.
- In some instances we may not be able to offer you a permanent contract. Any employment offer made by Abbott is contingent upon you obtaining and maintaining the right to work and reside legally in the UK.
- You are required to notify us immediately if your immigration status changes after you have submitted your application.
GRADUATES BASED IN THE UK: If you are on a Graduate visa, we cannot guarantee you sponsorship from within the UK upon its expiry. Abbott only has a set number of Certificate of Sponsorship applications that can be made each year, which are utilised for highly skilled workers transferring internally. If this limit is reached and other Home Office requirements cannot be met, it will prevent us from being able to sponsor and therefore employ you, unless you are able to secure your own right to work in the UK following the expiry of a Graduate visa.
Operations Professional Development Program (PDP) - STEM Graduate Scheme - Summer 2026 start in Witney employer: Abbott Laboratories
Abbott is an exceptional employer that prioritises the personal and professional growth of its employees through the Operations Professional Development Program. Located in Witney, participants benefit from a supportive work culture, competitive salary, and comprehensive training tailored to individual career aspirations, while also enjoying the unique opportunity to gain international experience during their final rotation abroad. With mentorship and diverse assignments across various operational functions, Abbott fosters a dynamic environment where graduates can thrive and make meaningful contributions to the company.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations Professional Development Program (PDP) - STEM Graduate Scheme - Summer 2026 start in Witney
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former participants of the OPDP on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for you. This can give you insider knowledge and help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Abbott’s values and the specifics of the OPDP. Think about how your skills align with what they’re looking for. Practise common interview questions and be ready to showcase your problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for operations! During interviews, share specific examples of projects or experiences that highlight your interest in production, engineering, or quality assurance. Let them see your enthusiasm for the field!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Abbott and starting your career with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Operations Professional Development Program (PDP) - STEM Graduate Scheme - Summer 2026 start in Witney
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Operations Professional Development Program. Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and academic achievements that align with the role. We want to see how you can add value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for operations and why you're excited about this programme. Be genuine and let us know what makes you a great fit for Abbott.
Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to showcase your analytical and problem-solving skills. Share specific examples of challenges you've faced and how you tackled them. We love seeing how you think on your feet!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website for the best chance of success! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Abbott Laboratories
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the Operations Professional Development Program inside out. Familiarise yourself with the rotation structure, the skills you'll develop, and how your background in Engineering or related fields aligns with the programme's goals.
✨Show Your Passion for Operations
During the interview, express your genuine interest in pursuing a career in operations. Share specific examples from your academic or internship experiences that demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as your eagerness to learn.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a list of thoughtful questions ready to ask your interviewers. This shows you're engaged and serious about the opportunity. You might want to ask about the mentorship aspect of the programme or how the rotations are structured to enhance your learning.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don't forget to let your personality shine through. The interviewers are looking for candidates who not only have the right skills but also fit well within their team culture. Be confident and authentic!