At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic engineering team and work on innovative projects in the polymer/chemical industry.
- Company: Avient, a leader in engineering solutions with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, formal training, and a clear career path in a rewarding workplace.
- Other info: Participate in exciting rotations and international visits to enhance your professional journey.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with real-world experience and global exposure.
- Qualifications: Degree qualified with a passion for learning and developing engineering skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 35000 £ per year.
Location: Knowsley, UK
Program start date: 1 October 2026
As part of our European 24-month program, you will have the opportunity to gain a wide breadth of exposure and experience across our key Business Units. In addition, you will continue to grow and develop your career through on-the-job and formal training, coaching and mentoring. At the end of the program, you will be placed in a leading engineering role that suits your strengths as you kick start your career with Avient.
Besides the on-job and formal training, we offer you a long-term career path into a performing and rewarding workplace, teambuilding and network activities and a culture of values focused on Collaboration, Innovation and Excellence.
You will navigate into our rotational assignments in:
- Engineering: You will join a small, experienced engineering team supporting the development and lifecycle of OEM equipment used by Avient customers worldwide. The role focuses on liquid additive metering and delivery system for the global plastics industry. You will gain hands-on experience in the design development, validation and global launch of new equipment solutions, while also supporting existing products. This includes working closely with external manufacturing partners, liaising with internal stakeholders and customers, and assisting with customer-raised issues, design updates, and end-of-life product considerations.
- Other key functions: During the program you will gain broad exposure across key parts of the business. This may include a short placement within Production which will be focused on liquid packaging in use. You will also get to know the Technology Centre and develop an understanding of the team’s technical capabilities, laboratory and testing facilities. Further rotation with the Technical Service Team will allow you to support key internal customer relationships, visit end-customer sites, and see equipment products operating in real application environments.
- Operations abroad: The program will include visits to manufacturing sites and to customers abroad. It provides valuable hands-on experience with different processes, technologies and ways of working while encouraging cultural and cross-functional understanding. The insights and best practices gained can then be transferred back enabling participants in the program to add value in their future roles.
Selection process: Initial phone screens will take place between 1st April – 30th April 2026. Recruitment Events take place between 18th May – 1st July 2026.
Program start and end: Program start date 1st October 2026 in Knowsley, UK. The Program will end in 2028 in Knowsley, UK.
Qualifications:
- Degree level qualified – preferably with some relevant industrial experience.
- Desire to learn and make a difference in the Polymer/Chemical Industry.
- Interested in demonstrating and further developing a broad set of engineering capabilities.
- Good spoken and written communication skills.
- Good active listening skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Languages: English fluent and preferably another language.
- EU Category B Driving License.
EMEA Engineering Development Program Associate in Liverpool employer: Avient
Avient is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development through its comprehensive EMEA Engineering Development Program. Located in Knowsley, UK, the company fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, offering extensive training, mentoring, and networking opportunities that empower associates to thrive in their engineering careers. With a commitment to excellence and a focus on meaningful projects within the global plastics industry, Avient provides a rewarding environment for those eager to make a significant impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land EMEA Engineering Development Program Associate in Liverpool
✨Get Hands-On Experience
Dive into practical projects, even if they're DIY at home or in your community. Many engineering firms are impressed by real-world application, so build something cool and document it! Showing action is way more impactful than just talking about theories.
✨Join Engineering Societies and Clubs
Get involved with engineering clubs at your university or local societies. These communities often host events, workshops, and networking opportunities that can lead you to internships or traineeships. Plus, you'll meet like-minded folks and get a chance to show off your enthusiasm!
✨Connect with Alumni from Your Programme
Don’t underestimate the power of university connections! Reach out to alumni who’ve ventured into engineering roles. They might have insider tips or even know of traineeship opportunities at places like Avient. A warm introduction can often go a long way.
✨Apply Early and Often
Trainee positions can fill up fast, so get your applications in as soon as you spot them! Keep an eye on our website for openings at companies like Avient. The earlier you apply, the more chances you’ll have to stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace EMEA Engineering Development Program Associate in Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Skills:As you’re applying for a trainee role in engineering, make sure to list your relevant technical skills prominently on your CV. Include any specific software or tools you’ve used (like CAD software) and mention specific projects or coursework that showcases your hands-on experience. We want to see what you’ve done and what you can bring to the table!
Get Personal with Your Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your passion for engineering and why you’re excited about the opportunity at Avient. Talk about what drives you and any specific areas of engineering you're keen on exploring further. We love to see your motivation and how you plan to grow in this role. Tailor it to us, and we’ll notice!
Highlight Your Educational Journey:Since this is a trainee position, your educational background is key! Make sure to mention not just your degree, but any relevant certifications or additional training you’ve taken. If you're a recent graduate or still studying, we want to see how your studies connect to this role in engineering.
Include Group Projects or Internships:If you’ve worked on any group projects or have had internships, make sure to call them out in your application. Collaboration is vital in engineering, so we want to see how well you’ve worked with others in real-world scenarios. Sharing this experience can set you apart from other trainees applying to Avient!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avient
✨Speak the Lingo
Engineering is packed with technical jargon, so brush up on relevant terminology. Whether it's CAD software or the basics of thermodynamics, you might be asked to explain concepts or tools you're familiar with. Using the right language shows you're not just a newbie but someone who's got a genuine interest in the field!
✨Problem-Solving in Action
Expect technical questions or scenarios where you’ll be asked to solve engineering problems. Practise logic puzzles or review relevant project cases you've worked on, even if they're part of your studies. Showcasing your critical thinking skills is key, especially in a trainee position where they want to see your potential!
✨Show Us Your Projects
As a trainee, your portfolio might not be extensive, but bring along any relevant projects you’ve completed during your studies. Highlighting your hands-on experience, even if it’s from coursework or internships, gives the interviewers at Avient a tangible taste of your skills and what you can bring to their team.
✨Be Ready to Learn
In a trainee role, demonstrating a willingness to learn is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you handle feedback and adapt to new challenges, as this is a trait many companies, including Avient, will be looking for. They want to see that you’re not just eager to hit the ground running, but also keen to grow within the engineering field!
