At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to develop innovative software for cutting-edge automotive technology.
- Company: JLR, a leader in automotive innovation with a focus on diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, discounts, and excellent pension scheme.
- Why this job: Launch your career in a dynamic environment and work on the future of luxury vehicles.
- Qualifications: Must be a penultimate-year student in software engineering or related fields.
- Other info: Gain hands-on experience and mentorship from industry experts over a 12-month programme.
The predicted salary is between 24998 - 24998 £ per year.
Posting End Date: 21/01/2026
Start Date: 06/07/2025
Programme Duration: 12 months
Location: Manchester. Hybrid working may be available, depending on the area and manager. JLR is a multi-site business and you will be required to spend time working with different departments at several locations.
Our undergraduate programmes provide a direct pipeline to our graduate scheme, which is not eligible for sponsorship. Therefore, JLR will only accept applications for this programme from candidates who would have the right to work in the UK at the point that they would successfully convert to the graduate programme.
Your placement year at university could not have come at a more exciting time. The undergraduate placement at JLR launches you into the heart of automotive innovation. Apply your learning, satisfy your curiosity and prepare for a long, successful career alongside industry experts.
At JLR, our vehicles feature some of the most advanced technology in the industry. Before drivers get in our cars, software identifies their key fob and unlocks the vehicle. During the journey, software supports their driving via stability and assistance systems and provides a welcoming and refined user experience through infotainment. Software is also crucial to our new electric propulsion systems. This means our software engineers get to work on some of the most innovative projects in the business, delivering the modern luxury vehicles of the future.
During the year-long programme, you’ll work alongside experienced engineers, supporting our software teams to deliver best quality, reliable features that delight our customers. Along the way, you’ll gain valuable insight into the design, implementation and advanced validation techniques of the tools and processes we work with every day. Your primary placement will be with the Digital Platform team, but you’ll also get to experience other areas of the business. Which teams you work with will depend on your personal preferences and business needs.
Our Digital Platform team design, develop and shape the future of our electronics and complex systems. To do this, they harness a wealth of techniques including model-based software development and direct code writing. As an undergraduate in this team, you’ll be key to ensuring our future vehicles have high-quality, reliable features that delight our drivers. This could be through robust design and implementation, advanced validation techniques or providing tools and processes to enable the engineering teams to work better. Your primary focus will be on low-level software development, ensuring our in-vehicle computer systems provide the very best performance, using boot charts, balancing processor core loading and refining fast-boot processes.
Our undergraduate programmes are designed to set you up for a lifetime of success, developing your curiosity and creativity over a period of 12 months. From day one, you’ll be surrounded by an innovative and dedicated team that cares about your development. You’ll build essential business skills, including resilience, personal branding, and self-care. Working alongside experienced professionals, you’ll gain valuable industry insights while bringing your academic knowledge to life. Shadowing opportunities will further deepen your understanding of our business and enhance your technical expertise. Throughout your journey, our Early Careers Delivery team will provide continuous support and guidance, ensuring you make the most of every opportunity. By the time you finish, you’ll be equipped to tackle the challenges of a rapidly changing industry and ready to make a meaningful impact.
What You’ll Need
- Taught degree in software engineering, computer science, cyber engineering or a related discipline with a minimum of an upper second class (2.2) pass or better.
- Skilled problem-solver with curiosity for understanding business challenges and a drive to deliver innovative solutions.
- Strong numerical and interpersonal skills, with confidence to champion new initiatives.
- All candidates must be penultimate-year students (those returning to their final year or on an integrated master’s) and the programme has a fixed start date of 6 July 2025.
Rewards and Benefits
- 2025 undergraduate programme salary: £24,998.
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Discounted car purchase and lease scheme for you and your family.
- Excellent pension scheme.
- Access to a wide range of deals and discounts from retailers and sports clubs.
Diversity and Inclusion
At JLR, we’re passionate about our people. They are at the heart of our business. We’re committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive culture that is representative of the society in which we live, where every employee can bring their authentic self to work and reach their full potential. JLR is committed to delivering equal opportunities for all. Candidates may require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process. Please discuss these with our recruitment team so we can accommodate your needs.
Important Notice: Please be aware that we may close our programmes at any point and at short notice based on the volume of applications received. To maximise your chances of being considered, please apply early.
Product Engineering Software Undergraduate Programme in Manchester employer: Hatfields
Contact Detail:
Hatfields Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Engineering Software Undergraduate Programme in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with current employees at JLR on LinkedIn or attend industry events. It’s all about who you know, and a friendly chat can sometimes lead to an insider tip or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews like a pro! Research JLR’s latest projects and innovations in automotive technology. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely excited about what they do and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend to do mock interviews with you. Focus on articulating your problem-solving skills and how your academic background aligns with the role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the JLR family. So, hit that apply button and let’s get you started on this exciting journey!
We think you need these skills to ace Product Engineering Software Undergraduate Programme in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for software engineering and the automotive industry! Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your curiosity and problem-solving skills.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any technical skills that align with the Product Engineering: Software Undergraduate Programme.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this opportunity and how your background makes you a great fit for our team at JLR.
Apply Early: Don’t wait until the last minute! We might close applications early based on volume, so get your application in as soon as you can through our website to maximise your chances.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hatfields
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your software engineering knowledge, especially around low-level software development and model-based software techniques. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in automotive technology, as this will show your genuine interest in the field.
✨Show Your Curiosity
During the interview, demonstrate your curiosity by asking insightful questions about the projects you'll be working on. This not only shows that you're engaged but also helps you understand how you can contribute to the team effectively.
✨Highlight Problem-Solving Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in your studies or previous experiences. JLR values problem solvers, so share stories that showcase your analytical thinking and innovative solutions.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Communication
Since you'll be working across different departments, it's crucial to highlight your interpersonal skills. Share experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others, and explain how you can bring those skills to the Digital Platform team.