At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to tackle real-world challenges in materials and processes for innovative aircraft.
- Company: Airbus, a leader in aerospace innovation with a diverse and inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Earn £24,246, enjoy flexible hours, hybrid work options, and half-day Fridays!
- Other info: Collaborate with global teams and gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge aerospace projects.
- Why this job: Make an impact in aviation while applying your studies in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Undergraduate in Chemistry, Materials Science, or Polymer Chemistry; lab experience valued.
The predicted salary is between 24246 - 24246 £ per year.
Start date: 16 August 2027
Location: Filton, Bristol
Duration: 12.5 months
Applications close on 27 September 2026!
Benefits:
- Salary: £24,246
- 35 hours per week
- Flexible working hours
- Hybrid working options available depending on the role
- Half day Fridays!
- 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
About us:
Join the UK Materials and Processes (M&P) team, where we generate customer value by delivering Robust Materials, Processes, and Structural Tests for Innovative Airbus aircraft. We're a crucial part of the entire product lifecycle, from Research & Development to Production, In-Service Support, and End-of-life.
We are a highly integrated, global team of recognized experts, driving innovation and simplification in everything we do. Our objective is to deliver end-to-end, eco-efficient materials, high-quality test results, and associated technologies for Airbus & beyond.
The UK M&P team is composed of several specialized technology groups, including:
- Assembly Technology
- Composite Technology
- Metals Technology
- Surface Technology
- Materials Testing and Analytics Laboratories
As a successful candidate, you will have the opportunity to perform projects and tasks within one or more of these technology groups, contributing directly to our mission of shaping the future of aviation.
What you will be doing:
M&P engineers/specialists are often required to provide materials expertise to solve problems that occur either during the design, production or use of aircraft in-service. This role offers you the unique opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to exciting, real-world industrial problems. With the potential to play a key role in large-scale projects, you will need to combine excellent project management and organizational skills with your technical expertise.
A proactive approach to problem solving:
All the materials and processes used to manufacture aircraft structure need to be proven to be robust, safe and capable of performing as designed. This is done through a process known as qualification where you might:
- Work with suppliers worldwide
- Test / analyse materials and components, utilising state of the art equipment within the Aerospace Research & Test Facility
- Be responsible for running qualification projects
- Determine the testing required
- Run analysis of the results to ensure that suppliers are providing capable products
- Explain and present your data or project outcomes to colleagues
- Have opportunities to support research activities on new materials or processes
When things do not perform as expected, you will need to be able to apply your technical knowledge and engineer a solution.
Self motivation and effective team working:
Airbus is a transnational workplace and, in addition to the engineers in Filton and Broughton, you may also be working with colleagues in France, Germany, Spain and India. Although you will be assigned tasks by your industrial supervisor, it is expected that you:
- Will be self-motivated
- Take responsibility for your time management
- Plan and Organize how the work is undertaken
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 must be able to demonstrate the following:
- Currently studying towards a degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Polymer Chemistry
- Comfortable in a lab environment; prior experience with wet chemistry or testing materials (even if limited to university practical sessions) is highly valued
- Interest in aircraft and/or aerospace, coupled with excellent communication skills
- Enthusiasm for working within a technical team to solve complex problems
- Sound foundational knowledge of materials and engineering principles
- An understanding of the properties of metals and composites, including the relative advantages and disadvantages of different materials
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.
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.
Materials and Processes Placement (12.5 months) employer: Airbus
Airbus Belfast Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that prioritises safety, quality, and employee growth. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, employees benefit from flexible working arrangements and opportunities for continuous improvement in their roles. Located in Belfast, the company fosters collaboration across teams, ensuring that every Tool Maker can contribute meaningfully to innovative projects while developing their skills in a high-precision manufacturing context.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials and Processes Placement (12.5 months)
✨Hit Up Engineering Meetups
Get yourself out there and attend engineering meetups and events in your area. Not only can you learn about the latest trends, but it’s a fab chance to meet professionals who could point you towards placements, including those at companies like Airbus.
✨Leverage University Career Services
Don’t forget to tap into your university's career services. They often have exclusive placement opportunities and can connect you with companies actively looking for engineering students during recruitment seasons. Plus, they might have some tips specifically tailored for getting into firms like Airbus!
✨Participate in Relevant Projects
Get involved in engineering projects or collaborate on university initiatives. This not only boosts your CV but also shows potential employers like Airbus that you're proactive and passionate about engineering, and it can lead to networking opportunities that land you a placement.
✨Apply Early and Often
Placement opportunities can slip away quickly, so make sure you're applying as soon as they're advertised. Keep an eye on our website for openings with firms like Airbus, and consider applying to multiple roles to increase your chances of finding the perfect fit.
We think you need these skills to ace Materials and Processes Placement (12.5 months)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Projects:As an engineering placements applicant, make sure to highlight any relevant projects you've worked on, be it in university or personal initiatives. We love seeing your hands-on experience, so don't shy away from including details about the technologies you used and the problems you solved.
Tailor Your CV for Engineering:When crafting your CV, focus on engineering-specific skills and tools you're familiar with. Mention software proficiency, technical skills, and any engineering-related modules or coursework that showcase your knowledge and experience relevant to the role at Airbus.
Express Your Enthusiasm!:In your cover letter, take the chance to express why you're excited about this placement at Airbus. Highlight how this opportunity aligns with your career goals and what you hope to learn during your time with us. Your motivation is just as important as your qualifications!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any engineering certifications or completed online courses that enhance your skills, be sure to mention them. These little extras can really boost your application and show that you're keen to learn and develop as an engineer during your placement.
How to prepare for a job interview at Airbus
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
For an engineering placement like the one at Airbus, make sure you're well-versed in the fundamental concepts relevant to the specific engineering discipline you're applying for. Be prepared to tackle a few technical questions that require you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and your understanding of essential theories.
✨Show Off Your Projects
Having a solid portfolio of projects can really set you apart. Whether it's your academic work, personal projects, or technical challenges you've tackled, be ready to discuss them. If possible, bring any relevant materials along, as visual aids can help you articulate your thought process and design choices more clearly in the eyes of your interviewers.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
In the engineering field, it's not just about knowing the theory; you'll often have to solve real-world problems on the spot. Make sure you can approach a problem methodically, explaining your thought process. Practice common engineering scenarios or case studies related to your desired role to build your confidence.
✨Express Your Eagerness to Learn
Since this is a placement, employers at Airbus are looking for potential over perfection. Be upfront about what you hope to learn and how passionate you are about growing in the engineering field. Show that you’re not only ready to contribute but also keen to absorb knowledge and gain experience from seasoned professionals.
