At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop software solutions for exciting space programmes and tackle engineering challenges.
- Company: Join Airbus, a leader in aerospace innovation with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Earn £24,500, enjoy flexible hours, half-day Fridays, and 25 days holiday.
- Other info: Inclusive environment with excellent career growth opportunities and support for personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on space missions while growing your skills in a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Studying Computer Science or related field; Java and database experience required.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Start date: 19 July 2027
Location: Stevenage
Duration: 13 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:
The Database Architecture team in Stevenage helps power cutting-edge space programmes for premier customers like the European Space Agency (ESA) and leading commercial satellite providers. Our team delivers essential data and software solutions across the entire lifecycle of major space missions—from ESA flagship programmes like the Vigil, Aeolus 2, Forum, the ExoMars Rover and Biomass to commercial projects like OneSAT. As an intern, you will apply your software development and data management skills directly to these high-impact technical solutions. You’ll be joining a passionate, collaborative group of technical experts who are dedicated to solving complex space engineering challenges—and excited to support your personal and professional growth.
What you will be doing:
- Drive End-to-End Solutions: Help analyze spacecraft engineering use cases, build prototype software, and carry projects through to final testing and delivery.
- Tackle Diverse Challenges: Work on varied tasks that build your technical, project management, and communication skills.
- Collaborate in an Inclusive Team: Bring your unique perspective to a diverse group that values creative problem-solving and flexible ways of working.
- Uphold High Standards: Maintain ethical compliance and act with integrity, supporting our commitment to sustainable growth and excellence.
Requirements:
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:
- Studying towards a Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Information Technology or related field;
- Experience with Java programming (Java 11 preferred);
- Experience of working with database technology (non-relational preferred e.g. MongoDB);
- Knowledge of Github (willing to present their published github);
Desirable:
- Intellij;
- Linux, Scripting (bash, Python);
- Scrum/Agile;
- Container orchestration (Kubernetes, Docker);
- Continuous Integration;
- Front End Development (e.g. Angular, React);
- Web API framework (e.g. Spring boot / Rest API);
- Web/GUI development (UI/UX, HTML, CSS, Javascript/Typescript);
- SQL, PL/SQL;
- Subversion;
- Microsoft Access database;
- Jenkins.
In addition to demonstrating the following:
- The ability to listen, understand and communicate information;
- The desire to work in a technical team environment;
- A strong interest in developing yourself;
- Interest in finding creative solutions to complex problems;
- Able to make decisions based on evidence;
- The desire to work in an open and trusting environment.
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.
Contact:
Please let us know if you need us to make any adjustments to allow you to access and participate fully in the recruitment process. If you wish to discuss this further please contact us. Any information disclosed will be treated in the strictest confidence.
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: Support to Management
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.
Software Developer Placement (13 months) in Stevenage 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 Software Developer Placement (13 months) in Stevenage
✨Get Involved with Open Source Projects
Diving into open source is a fantastic way to showcase your skills and build a solid portfolio that speaks volumes. Contributing to projects on platforms like GitHub not only helps you learn, but it puts your work in front of potential employers, including places like Airbus Defence and Space!
✨Attend Hackathons and Tech Meetups
Jumping into hackathons or local tech meetups can give you great exposure to the industry. Not only do you get to network with like-minded individuals, but you might even catch the attention of recruiters from companies like Airbus Defence and Space while collaborating on exciting projects.
✨Leverage University Career Services
Don’t underestimate the power of your university's career services! They often have connections with companies looking for placement candidates like us. They can guide you on preparing for interviews and even help set up networking events.
✨Show Off Your Projects on Your Personal Website
Create a portfolio website to showcase your coding projects and development skills. This is a brilliant way to give a peek into your personality and capabilities while letting potential employers like Airbus Defence and Space see your work up close. Plus, it shows you're proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Software Developer Placement (13 months) in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Projects:In software engineering, showcasing your portfolio is key! Include links to GitHub repositories or any relevant projects you've worked on. This will give us a clear idea of your coding skills and what you can bring to Airbus Defence and Space.
Highlight Relevant Skills:Make sure to emphasise programming languages, frameworks, and tools you’re familiar with on your CV. For a placement, we love seeing candidates who are eager to learn and adapt, so don’t hesitate to include any relevant coursework or certifications you’ve completed.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:In your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in a placement with Airbus Defence and Space specifically. Tell us what you hope to learn and how we fit into your career goals—not just what you can do for us, but what you want to gain from the experience.
Be Ready to Talk Tech:Prepare for the possibility of a technical assessment or interview. Brush up on coding challenges and be ready to discuss your approach to problem-solving. Remember, we are looking for your thought process and ability to learn, not just the correct answer!
How to prepare for a job interview at Airbus Defence and Space
✨Brush Up on Your Coding Skills
For a software engineering placement at Airbus Defence and Space, be ready to tackle coding challenges. You might face questions on algorithms, data structures, or even a live coding session. Practising on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank can really sharpen your skills and boost your confidence!
✨Showcase Your Projects
Have a couple of your projects on hand to discuss during the interview. Whether it's a personal project or something from your coursework, being able to explain your thought process, the technologies you used, and any challenges you faced can make a great impression. Be prepared to dive into the specifics and even share your GitHub link!
✨Understand the Tech Stack
Make sure you're familiar with the technologies and tools that Airbus Defence and Space uses. If you see mentions of specific languages or frameworks in the job description, brush up on them. This shows your enthusiasm and preparedness for the role, making you a more attractive candidate!
✨Be Ready to Learn and Adapt
As this is a placement, the hiring team at Airbus Defence and Space will be keen to hear about your motivation and potential to grow. Be open about what you want to learn from the role. Highlight experiences where you've adapted to new situations or picked up new skills quickly to showcase your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
