Mechanical Engineer Intern
Internship Highlights:
- Formal study placement: Complete a recognised internship or work-based learning placement as part of Mechanical Engineering or related studies.
- Hands-on mechanical experience: Learn from experienced teams across mechanical design, equipment selection, procurement, installation, testing, commissioning and handover on water and wastewater projects.
- Direct 2027 graduate pathway: Final-year students graduating in 2027 who successfully complete the internship will, if interested, be entitled to an immediate September 2027 Graduate Programme offer without further interviews.
Role Purpose:
As a Mechanical Engineering Intern, you will support multidisciplinary teams delivering mechanical systems for water and wastewater projects from design and procurement through installation, testing, commissioning, completion and handover.
This is a formal internship opportunity undertaken as part of relevant Mechanical Engineering or related studies. Under the guidance of experienced engineers, you will build practical and professional skills, learn how mechanical systems and equipment are designed, coordinated, installed and commissioned, and complete or return to your studies with stronger industry experience.
Graduate Programme Pathway:
Final-year students graduating in 2027 who successfully complete the internship will, if they wish to continue with Glanua, be entitled to an immediate offer for the Glanua Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme starting in September 2027, with no further interviews required.
The two-year Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme combines live project experience with structured mentoring, training, one 12-month rotation and two six-month rotations. A six-month rotation may be available in Portugal or the UK, subject to business requirements and individual suitability, and graduates receive support towards future professional accreditation.
Key Responsibilities:
Mechanical Design and Coordination:
- Support mechanical engineering activities across multidisciplinary water and wastewater projects under the guidance of experienced engineers.
- Assist with design reviews, calculations, equipment sizing and selection, mechanical layouts, pipework, specifications, datasheets and technical reports.
- Review supplier and subcontractor information and support equipment proposals, procurement, material deliveries, tracking and technical queries.
- Maintain accurate mechanical design, project and document-control records and communicate progress clearly to colleagues.
Project Delivery Testing and Commissioning:
- Collaborate with design, project delivery, construction, commissioning and operations teams on live projects.
- Take part in site visits, inspections and technical meetings while following all health, safety, environmental, quality and sustainability requirements.
- Support monitoring of mechanical installation works and equipment to confirm progress and conformance with project designs and specifications.
- Assist with testing, commissioning and handover records, including site acceptance tests, inspection and test documentation, pipe pressure testing, hydrostatic tank testing, operation and maintenance manuals and as-constructed drawings.
Learning Collaboration and Development:
- Build familiarity with mechanical design, CAD, BIM and document-control tools used to support project delivery.
- Learn about mechanical equipment, pipework, pumping systems, industry standards and the role of mechanical engineering in sustainable water and wastewater infrastructure.
- Communicate clearly with colleagues and contribute positively to multidisciplinary project and site teams.
- Take part in mentoring, continuous learning and feedback.
Essential Criteria:
- Currently enrolled in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related degree programme.
- Able to complete the internship as a formal placement or work-based learning opportunity connected to your studies. Final-year students graduating in 2027 are eligible.
- A strong academic foundation and genuine interest in mechanical systems and sustainable water and wastewater infrastructure.
- Strong numerical, analytical, communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Enthusiasm for learning and applying engineering concepts on live projects and in site environments.
- Basic working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Willingness to work across office and project-site environments and to travel to project locations as required.
- Commitment to high standards of health, safety, environment, quality and sustainability.
Desirable Criteria:
- Exposure to mechanical design, CAD, BIM, pumps, pipework, rotating equipment or related engineering software.
- Previous construction, engineering, infrastructure or water-sector experience gained through university projects, part-time work, volunteering or another placement.
- Basic awareness of mechanical drawings, equipment specifications, installation practices, testing, commissioning or technical document control.
Personal Attributes:
- Proactive, curious and eager to learn from experienced colleagues.
- Collaborative and respectful, with a positive approach to teamwork.
- Safety-conscious and willing to speak up when something does not look right.
- Adaptable and practical when working across different tasks, projects and environments.
- Organised and attentive to detail, with the confidence to ask questions and apply feedback.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
At Glanua, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is treated with respect and has an equal opportunity to succeed. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and value the different perspectives and experiences they bring. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let our recruitment team know.
About Us:
Glanua is a leading provider of innovative and sustainable engineering solutions for water, wastewater and bioresources infrastructure. We design, build, operate and maintain critical infrastructure for municipal and industrial clients, combining engineering expertise, specialist technologies and off-site manufacturing to deliver efficient, sustainable solutions.
Our clients include major water utilities such as Uisce Éireann, Thames Water, Yorkshire Water and Affinity Water, alongside leading organisations in the pharmaceutical, life sciences, food and beverage and manufacturing sectors. Through our expertise in water and wastewater treatment, bioresources and resource recovery, we help protect the environment, safeguard water resources and support the transition to a circular economy.
Headquartered in Galway, Ireland, Glanua has a talented team of people across Ireland, the UK, Portugal and the USA. Guided by our values of Respect, Collaboration, Accountability, Integrity, Excellence and Safety, we empower our people to innovate, develop their skills and reach their full potential while helping to create a cleaner, more sustainable planet.
Mechanical Engineer Intern in Newton-le-Willows employer: Glanua
Glanua is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly in the dynamic field of water and wastewater infrastructure. With a strong emphasis on employee growth, you will have access to mentorship opportunities and the chance to lead impactful projects that promote sustainability. Located in a vibrant area, Glanua offers a supportive environment where your contributions are valued, making it a rewarding place to advance your career.
