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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to research, design, and manage exciting new product projects.
- Company: Manthorpe Building Products, a leading manufacturer in the building industry.
- Benefits: Earn £24,000, gain real experience, and boost your CV with mentorship.
- Other info: Enjoy a welcoming team and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make your ideas come to life while learning from industry professionals.
- Qualifications: Studying Product Design with a curious and hands-on approach.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 24000 £ per year.
Location: Ripley, Derby, DE5
Company: Manthorpe Building Products (part of Genuit Group)
Duration: 12 months starting in September 2026.
Salary: £24,000
Who We Are
Manthorpe Building Products is a leading designer, manufacturer and supplier of plastic injection moulded, vacuum formed and extruded products for the building industry.
The Opportunity
We’re looking for a curious, hands-on Product Design student to join our team for a year in industry. You’ll work closely with the Development team, Sales Director, and Production department to research, design, and manage new product projects. You’ll also support the development and technical improvement of existing products, serving both the new build and refurbishment sectors of the construction industry.
You’ll get to:
- Research the current market and monitor changes in the building industry to identify new product opportunities
- Develop design briefs and write product design specifications to guide the design process
- Create concept designs using traditional sketching, physical modelling, CAD, and rapid prototyping techniques
- Use 3D CAD software to develop commercially viable products, selecting appropriate materials and manufacturing methods
- Produce 2D technical drawings and supporting documentation to assist the manufacturing process
- Evaluate and test prototypes and final components to ensure they meet performance standards and design specifications
- Create technical literature and installation instructions using standard IT tools
- Provide technical support for existing products and assist with troubleshooting as needed
- Help ensure the existing product range continues to meet market needs and complies with evolving industry regulations
What we’re looking for
We don’t expect you to know everything — that’s what this placement is for! But we’d love to hear from you if you’re:
- Studying Product Design
- Curious, analytical, and great at spotting patterns in data.
- A team player who enjoys problem-solving (and doesn’t mind getting hands-on).
- Eager to learn, improve, and make an impact.
If you’ve got enthusiasm, initiative, and a genuine interest in how things are made, you’ll fit right in.
What’s in it for you
- A year of real Product Design experience in a major UK manufacturer.
- Mentorship from experienced professionals who want you to succeed.
- A chance to see your ideas come to life.
- A solid boost to your CV.
- A welcoming, down-to-earth team.
How to apply and what to expect if you’re shortlisted
- Apply by using the Apply Now button at the bottom of this page!
- Our Resourcing Team will be in touch with you to ask for a short Video Submission – A 2-minute pitch: "What do you think makes a great Product Designer, and how do you see yourself developing those skills during your placement year?"
- Face to Face interview – A one-on-one conversation to go deeper and a real-life view of the business, allowing you to get a great feel for us and if it aligns with your vision for your placement.
Year In Industry - Product Designer in Ripley employer: Manthorpe Building Products
Contact Detail:
Manthorpe Building Products Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Year In Industry - Product Designer in Ripley
✨Tip Number 1
Get your research game on! Before you even think about applying, dive into what Manthorpe Building Products is all about. Understand their products and the market they operate in. This will help you tailor your pitch and show them you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for that video submission by rehearsing your pitch. Think about what makes a great Product Designer and how you can showcase your skills. Keep it concise and engaging – remember, you only have two minutes!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of networking! Reach out to current or past interns at Manthorpe or similar companies. They can give you insider tips on what to expect and how to stand out during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about landing this opportunity. Don’t forget to follow up if you don’t hear back – it shows initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Year In Industry - Product Designer in Ripley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Product Design shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the field and how you can contribute to our team.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight relevant projects or experiences that showcase your skills in design, research, and teamwork. We love seeing how you've applied your knowledge!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this placement. Be specific about what excites you about working with us and how you plan to grow during your year in industry.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to hit that 'Apply Now' button on our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get the ball rolling on your journey with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at Manthorpe Building Products
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Manthorpe Building Products and their role in the building industry. Familiarise yourself with their products and recent innovations. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your answers to align with their values and goals.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Prepare a portfolio showcasing your design projects, especially those that highlight your hands-on skills and creativity. Be ready to discuss your design process, from research to prototyping, and how you tackled challenges along the way. This is your chance to shine!
✨Ask Smart Questions
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask insightful questions about the team dynamics, current projects, or future product developments. This demonstrates your curiosity and eagerness to learn, which are key traits they’re looking for in a candidate.
✨Be Yourself
While it’s important to be professional, don’t forget to let your personality shine through. Manthorpe Building Products values enthusiasm and initiative, so share your passion for product design and how you envision contributing to their team. Authenticity goes a long way!