At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Physical Design team to enhance digital processes and collaborate on innovative aerospace projects.
- Company: Airbus Defence and Space, a leader in aerospace engineering.
- Benefits: Earn £24,500, enjoy flexible hours, hybrid work, and half-day Fridays!
- Other info: 12-month placement with excellent career growth opportunities in a diverse environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact in aerospace while gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge design tools.
- Qualifications: Studying Mechanical Engineering with CAD/CAM knowledge and programming skills preferred.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Start date: 19 July 2027
Location: Stevenage
Duration: 12 months
Applications close on 27 September 2026
Benefits
- Salary: £24,500
- 37 hours per week
- Flexible working hours
- Hybrid working options available depending on the role
- Half day Fridays!
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays subject to completing full hours prior to this
About us
At the Aerospace Mechanical Engineering Design Office, we provide the core engineering expertise behind every physical design, from concept to launch. We design and develop mechanical and thermal systems for diverse space projects, including Earth Observation, Science, Navigation, and Telecom missions. From initial system synoptics to final specifications, our Mechanical Design Office (MDO) supports business units by managing equipment layout and RF connectivity, including waveguides and coaxial cabling. Using the Dassault suite (Catia), we specialize in 3D payload accommodation, detailed Radio Frequency (RF) routing, and comprehensive stress and thermal justification. We collaborate closely with the Assembly, Integration, and Test department to create the assembly kits, installation drawings, and bills of materials that streamline our satellite production. Beyond design, we support testing readiness by developing jigs, MGSE, and non-flight RF hardware. We are also proud to be a key driver in our company’s digital transformation, leading the way in end-to-end Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) flow and product data continuity.
What you will be doing
- The Physical Design PMTD team plays a pivotal role in the Digital Design and Manufacturing Service (DDMS) improvement project. This project is designed to deliver significant financial savings to the business by reducing waste and using digitalisation as a key tool in improving end-to-end processes through the business.
- Process Development: Specifying, developing, and documenting the process changes required to successfully deploy new toolsets, such as 3DExperience and Catia V6.
- Stakeholder Collaboration: Working closely with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders to design and implement leaner, more efficient workflows.
- Digital Transformation: Contributing to the wider business strategy by optimizing end-to-end processes through digitalization.
- Reporting: Concluding your placement by preparing and presenting a final report to department managers and key stakeholders to showcase your findings and project impact.
About you
Our placements are open to Undergraduates only. Therefore it is mandatory for candidates to be an undergraduate for the whole duration of the placement. Please inform your graduation date on your application. Your application should include a CV along with a Cover Letter outlining your motivation and suitability for the role.
Successful candidates will be able to demonstrate the following:
- Ideally currently studying a Mechanical Engineering degree;
- Experience and knowledge of CAD/CAM tools, knowledge of the Dassault System tools (Catia V5 or V6, Delmia, Apriso) is preferred;
- Some programming skills (VB, VB.net, php, mysql, C#);
- You thrive in a collaborative environment and communicate confidently with stakeholders across all levels of the organization.
SECURITY CLEARANCE
You will be subject to a BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) check. You may also need to gain UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control, depending on the role.
This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company’s success, reputation and sustainable growth.
Company
AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited
Employment Type
Internship
Experience Level
Student
Job Family
Sub-system development
By submitting your CV or application you are consenting to Airbus using and storing information about you for monitoring purposes relating to your application or future employment. This information will only be used by Airbus. Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief. Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported to emsom@airbus.com. At Airbus, we support you to work, connect and collaborate more easily and flexibly. Wherever possible, we foster flexible working arrangements to stimulate innovative thinking.
Physical Design Process, Methods, Tools and Data Stevenage Placement (12 months) employer: Airbus Defence and Space
Airbus Defence and Space Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Portsmouth, Stevenage, or Newport, where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. With a strong focus on work-life balance, competitive financial rewards, and extensive personal development opportunities, Airbus fosters a culture of inclusivity and support, ensuring that every team member can grow and succeed in their career while enjoying a fulfilling life outside of work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Physical Design Process, Methods, Tools and Data Stevenage Placement (12 months)
✨Dive into Aerospace Communities
Get involved in online forums and networking groups specifically for aerospace engineering. Platforms like LinkedIn have specialised groups where you can connect with industry professionals and fellow students, sharing knowledge and opportunities. Keep an eye out for aerospace conferences and meetups—you never know who might have leads on placements!
✨Showcase Your Projects
If you've worked on any projects—either academic or personal—make sure to flaunt them! Create a portfolio that showcases your best work in aerospace engineering. This can be especially useful when speaking to potential employers like Airbus Defence and Space, as it provides tangible proof of your skills and creativity.
✨Leverage University Resources
Your university likely has ties with aerospace companies and can help you snag a placement. Don't forget to visit your career services office; they often have job boards, exclusive job fairs, and can even facilitate introductions to companies like Airbus Defence and Space. Make the most of these resources!
✨Apply Early and Often
Aerospace placements can be highly competitive, so make sure to cast your net wide. Keep a close eye on application windows and be proactive in applying to multiple companies, including Airbus Defence and Space. The earlier you apply, the better your chances—so don’t wait for the last minute!
We think you need these skills to ace Physical Design Process, Methods, Tools and Data Stevenage Placement (12 months)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:When applying for the aerospace engineering placement at Airbus Defence and Space, ensure your CV highlights relevant technical skills such as CAD software proficiency or knowledge of aerodynamics. We want to see how you've applied these skills in academic projects or any hands-on experiences you've had. Don’t leave us guessing!
Link Your Learning to Real-World Applications:In your cover letter, explain how your coursework connects to the role you're applying for. We love hearing about specific projects, like any relevant models or simulations you’ve worked on that demonstrate your understanding of aerospace concepts. It helps us see how you can contribute during your placement at Airbus Defence and Space.
Be Clear About Your Passion:Expressing your enthusiasm for aerospace engineering is important! Share what drives you in your cover letter—be it a fascination with flight mechanics or a dream of working on sustainable aviation technologies. We’re looking for candidates who are eager to learn and grow during their time with us.
Polish Up Your Project Portfolio:If you have any engineering projects, research papers or even design prototypes, compile them neatly into a portfolio. When applying for a placement, showcasing your practical work can strengthen your application. It gives us a chance to see not just what you’ve studied, but what you can actually create!
How to prepare for a job interview at Airbus Defence and Space
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Aerospace engineering is all about the nitty-gritty of aerodynamics, materials, and propulsion systems. Make sure you can discuss key concepts and maybe even some recent innovations in the industry. Expect technical questions or perhaps a case study that tests your understanding of engineering principles in real-world scenarios!
✨Bring Your Projects to the Forefront
For a placement, your practical experience matters more than you might think. Have a portfolio ready that showcases any relevant projects, projects from university, or even personal experiments. Be prepared to explain not just what you did, but how you approached challenges or worked in teams.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Standards
Know the key aerospace standards and regulations, as these might pop up during your interview. Show that you’re aware of what's expected in the industry—things like safety protocols or sustainability practices. This demonstrates your commitment and understanding of the field!
✨Show Your Eagerness to Learn
As this is a placement, the hiring team at Airbus Defence and Space will be looking for potential as much as for experience. Highlight your enthusiasm for learning and growing within the role, and be ready to discuss how this placement can kickstart your career in aerospace engineering.
