Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme, Irvine, UK, 2026
Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme, Irvine, UK, 2026

Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme, Irvine, UK, 2026

Irvine Full-Time 28800 - 48000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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GlaxoSmithKline

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join GSK's Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme and innovate in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
  • Company: GSK, a leading global healthcare company focused on improving patient health.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, private healthcare, and wellness resources.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: Bachelor's or Master's in relevant engineering fields; passion for manufacturing is key.
  • Other info: Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and sustainability projects.

The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.

Overview

Join the GSK Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme – UK, 2026: Help us get ahead of disease together

Education and Language

Education required: Bachelors or Masters in Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Science, Biomedical Engineering, Biologics & Process Technology, Chemical & Pharmaceutical Technology; IChemE accredited degrees.

Language requirement: Written and spoken fluency in English.

Location and Start Date

Location: Irvine

Expected start date: September 2026

Application Information

Application information: You can apply to only one GSK Graduate Programme in the UK. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and the role will close once we have received enough relevant applications. We recommend you apply as soon as possible.

Assessment Centre Date: November/December 2025

Application deadline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; role will close when enough relevant applications are received.

Programme Description

Within our Global Supply Chain (GSC) business, we manufacture and supply reliable, high-quality medicines and vaccines to meet patients’ needs. Our network delivered 1.7 billion packs of medicines and 409 million vaccine doses in 2024. Technology is transforming how we manufacture medicines and vaccines, enabling us to increase speed, quality, and scale. We are leveraging smart manufacturing technologies, robotics, digital solutions and AI to deliver for patients.

Two-year programme designed to prepare you for future technical, operational and engineering roles within GSK’s Global Supply Chain in your chosen discipline.

What You’ll Experience

  • Cross-Functional Exposure: Rotations and projects at your home site to deepen expertise and knowledge of the business.
  • Kaizen Assignment: Short-term breadth assignment, potentially with global focus, to expand skills beyond the home site.
  • Tailored Training: Role-specific training with a generous training budget and access to resources.
  • Professional & Personal Growth: Develop technical expertise through on-the-job experience.

Key Programme Features

  • Digital Data & Analytics (DDA) Objective: Each rotation has a DDA focus to advance pharmaceutical manufacturing processes.
  • Sustainability Element: Contribute to Net Carbon Zero by working on environmental sustainability projects.
  • Mentoring & Networking: Access to senior leaders and mentors for career development.

What Will You Do?

  • Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Hands-on exposure to production processes, systems and equipment performance.
  • Explore Innovative Technologies: Work with cutting-edge technologies and learn the full production lifecycle.
  • Risk and Compliance: Understand risk management and GMP compliance.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, technical services and supply chain.
  • Continuous Improvement: Apply DMAIC/Lean Six Sigma methods to improve efficiency.
  • Digital & Data: Use data-driven approaches and visualization to improve decisions.
  • Process & Sustainability Improvements: Drive safety, quality, efficiency and sustainability projects.
  • Smart Manufacturing & Business Projects: Lead initiatives to improve yield, productivity and efficiency.
  • Drive Performance Excellence: Establish KPIs and maintain high standards.

What Are We Looking For?

  • Passion for Manufacturing: Enthusiasm for chemical/process engineering in pharma and improving processes.
  • Technical Expertise: Relevant degree with interest in data management and analytics.
  • Continuous Improvement Mindset: Growth mindset with ability to simplify and innovate.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and collaboration.
  • Self-Motivation: Proactive, adaptable, eager to learn.
  • Attention to Detail: Analytical, organized and process-driven.
  • Resilience: Able to adapt and work effectively under pressure.

What Do We Offer You?

  • A competitive salary with an annual bonus based on company performance.
  • Relocation allowance (eligibility confirmed once first location is confirmed).
  • Employee recognition programs and wellbeing resources, including 24/7 confidential helpline, mindfulness, health screenings and financial wellbeing support.
  • Private healthcare with 24-hour online GP access.
  • Salary sacrifice options, including identity protection, long-term care, home, auto and pet insurance.
  • Share save plan option and long-term incentives tied to performance.
  • Engagement with Employee Resource Groups and TalNet communities for development and networking.
  • Two volunteering days per year (Together Days).
  • Formal and informal training through coaching and mentoring.

Application Support and Contacts

If you need help with your application, please email UK.EarlyCareers@gsk.com. For general information on careers, visit https://www.gsk.com/en-gb/careers/.

GSK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage flexible working and welcome reasonable adjustments to our process.

Important notices: sponsorship, immigration rules and related requirements will apply for UK roles. See the original posting for details.

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Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme, Irvine, UK, 2026 employer: GlaxoSmithKline

GSK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme in Irvine that empowers graduates to contribute to innovative pharmaceutical manufacturing while fostering personal and professional growth. With a strong focus on sustainability, cutting-edge technology, and a supportive work culture, employees benefit from tailored training, mentorship opportunities, and a competitive salary package that includes private healthcare and wellness resources. Join us to be part of a collaborative team dedicated to improving patient outcomes and driving continuous improvement in the industry.
GlaxoSmithKline

Contact Detail:

GlaxoSmithKline Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme, Irvine, UK, 2026

✨Tip Number 1

Get to know the company inside out! Research GSK's values, recent projects, and their approach to sustainability. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.

✨Tip Number 2

Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Having someone on the inside can give you valuable insights and even a referral, which can really boost your chances of landing that interview.

✨Tip Number 3

Practice makes perfect! Prepare for the assessment centre by doing mock interviews and group exercises. Familiarise yourself with common questions and scenarios related to manufacturing operations, so you can showcase your skills confidently.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, applying early can give you an edge since applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. So, get your application in as soon as you can!

We think you need these skills to ace Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme, Irvine, UK, 2026

Chemical Engineering
Pharmaceutical Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Data Management
Data Analytics
GMP Compliance
Continuous Improvement
Lean Six Sigma
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Risk Management
Technical Expertise
Communication Skills
Self-Motivation
Attention to Detail
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Get to Know Us: Before you start your application, take a moment to explore our website and get familiar with what we do at GSK. Understanding our values and mission will help you tailor your application to show how you fit in.

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience and skills that align with the Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme. Use keywords from the job description to make it clear why you're a great fit for us!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for manufacturing and how your background in chemical engineering or related fields makes you the perfect candidate. Keep it concise but impactful!

Apply Early: Remember, we review applications on a rolling basis, so don’t wait until the deadline! The sooner you apply, the better your chances of securing a spot in our programme. Head over to our website and submit your application today!

How to prepare for a job interview at GlaxoSmithKline

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of chemical and pharmaceutical engineering principles. Familiarise yourself with the latest technologies in manufacturing, especially those related to digital data and analytics, as these are key to GSK's operations.

✨Show Your Passion

GSK is looking for candidates who are genuinely enthusiastic about manufacturing and improving processes. Be ready to share specific examples of projects or experiences that highlight your passion for the field and your commitment to continuous improvement.

✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions

Expect questions that assess your interpersonal skills and resilience. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, focusing on how you've collaborated with others and handled challenges in past experiences.

✨Ask Insightful Questions

At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the specific projects you might work on during the programme or how GSK integrates sustainability into their manufacturing processes. This shows your interest and engagement with the role.

Manufacturing Operations Graduate Programme, Irvine, UK, 2026
GlaxoSmithKline
Location: Irvine
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