At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us to tackle exciting mechanical engineering challenges in missile and weapon systems.
- Company: MBDA, a leading defence organisation committed to supporting the Armed Forces.
- Benefits: Earn £24,460 pro rata, enjoy subsidised meals, and gain valuable hands-on experience.
- Other info: Dynamic 10-week placement starting June 2027 with potential for future graduate roles.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while working on cutting-edge technology and innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Current undergraduate pursuing a degree in Engineering or Materials Science.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
The Mechanical Engineering department develops physical solutions from concept through development and certification to production on missiles and weapon systems. The nature of complex weapons and the environments they operate in present an extensive scope of unique and interesting mechanical engineering challenges.
Salary: £24,460 (pro rata)
Dynamic working: 3-4 days per week on-site due to workload classification
Security clearance: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. Restrictions and/or limitations relating to nationality and/or rights to work may apply. As a minimum and after offer stage, all successful candidates will need to undergo HMG Basic Personnel Security Standard checks (BPSS), which are managed by the MBDA Personnel Security Team.
This role is scheduled to close for applications at midnight on Monday 4th January 2027 but may close earlier depending on application volumes.
What we can offer you:
- 10 week placement: Starting June 2027, that allows you to apply your university learning to real-world projects and technologies
- Perform well on your placement and you could secure a graduate role before your final year
- Pension: Maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%
- Overtime: Opportunity for paid overtime
- Annual Leave: 5 days
- Facilities: Fantastic site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and much more...
The opportunity:
The Mechanical Engineering department develops physical solutions from concept through development and certification to production on missiles and weapon systems. The nature of complex weapons and the environments they operate in present an extensive scope of unique and interesting mechanical engineering challenges. You'll get hands‑on work experience from all placements - interaction with hardware is highly encouraged to help further understanding of our products. This could mean use of rapid prototyping facilities, getting involved in external manufacture or participating in assembly builds and laboratory tests. You'll learn from our engineers' knowledge in complex weapons and Defence technology across all departments. Summer placement students often work collaboratively with other closely related departments on a common project supported by a network of technical specialists. These dynamic projects are at the frontiers of innovation and capture the latest trends and concepts to deliver future novel solutions within the battlespace.
You could gain experience in some of the following areas:
- Mechanical Design - Be involved in all stages of design from concept development through to manufacture. This role relies on CAD tools and gives opportunity to be involved in laboratory test programs.
- Mechanical Future Concepts - Positioned at the cutting-edge of missile technology, gain experience in the early stages of the product lifecycle from concept generation to research & development (R&D) studies.
- Mechanical Analysis - Develop specialist technical solutions to aid the design process. With Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools and laboratory testing, conduct detailed stress and thermal analysis on structures and mechanical systems.
- Actuation Systems - Working within a multi-disciplinary team on the electro-mechanical design of fin, wing and seeker actuation systems. The role is broadly similar to the Mechanical Design placement with the added possibility of working in a cross-discipline, international team.
- Materials and Processes - Advise design teams in the principles of materials science, and evaluate their ideas against material compatibility; this offers the chance to get involved in top-tier research of novel materials as well as practical lab based assessments.
What we're looking for from you:
Current undergraduate working towards a Degree in an Engineering discipline (incl. General, Mechanical, Production/Manufacturing, Aeronautical/Aerospace), Materials Science or Technology Degree discipline.
Our company: Peace is not a given, Freedom is not a given, Sovereignty is not a given. MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom. We are proud of our employee-led networks, examples include: Gender Equality, Pride, Menopause Matters, Parents and Carers, Armed Forces, Ethnic Diversity, Neurodiversity, Disability and more... We recognise that everyone is unique, and we encourage you to speak to us should you require any advice, support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process.
Follow us on LinkedIn (MBDA), X (@MBDA_UK), Instagram (MBDA_UK) and Glassdoor or visit our MBDA Careers website for more information.
Mechanical Engineer - Summer Placement 2027 in Stevenage employer: MBDA Miissle System
MBDA is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters employee growth and development. With competitive benefits such as a company bonus, generous pension contributions, and flexible working arrangements, employees are empowered to balance their professional and personal lives while contributing to vital defence projects. The inclusive work culture, supported by various employee-led networks, ensures that every individual feels valued and has the opportunity to thrive in their career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Mechanical Engineer - Summer Placement 2027 in Stevenage
✨Get Involved with Engineering Societies
Join your university's mechanical engineering society or local engineering clubs. These spaces are golden for networking and often host events where companies scout for placement candidates. Plus, you’ll meet like-minded peers who can share opportunities.
✨Utilise Your University's Career Services
Don't sleep on your university's career centre! They often have exclusive placement programmes and can connect you with companies actively looking to hire students. Pop in or check their website for events like career fairs, which can open doors for your placement.
✨Show Off Your Projects and Skills
Create a portfolio of your engineering projects that showcases your skills and creativity. Whether it's a CAD design or a hands-on project, having something tangible can make you stand out when meeting potential employers. Share it during networking events or on your LinkedIn.
✨Apply Directly Through Company Websites
When you spot a placement position at companies like MBDA Miissle System, don’t just rely on job boards. Go straight to their website and apply! This shows genuine interest in the company and can sometimes give you a leg up since you'll be applying where they want candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Mechanical Engineer - Summer Placement 2027 in Stevenage
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Projects:In mechanical engineering, showcasing any personal or academic projects can really set you apart. Include detailed descriptions in your CV about your design processes, tools you used, and any challenges you overcame. This helps us see your practical skills in action!
Relevant Coursework Matters:For a placement, it’s great to highlight related coursework or projects that align with mechanical engineering principles. Mention specific topics or modules you've excelled in that demonstrate your understanding of the field. Make sure this info shines in your cover letter as well!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for mechanical engineering and why you’re excited about the placement at MBDA Miissle System. Share what you hope to learn and how you can contribute, focusing on your eagerness to grow and gain hands-on experience.
Don’t Forget Certifications:If you've completed any relevant certifications or courses—like CAD software or specific engineering methods—definitely mention those! They can be a huge plus in a mechanical engineering placement application, showing us you’re proactive in developing your skill set.
How to prepare for a job interview at MBDA Miissle System
✨Show Off Your Technical Problems Skills
Get ready to tackle some real-world engineering problems during your placement interview. You might be asked to solve things on the spot or work through case studies, so brush up on your problem-solving techniques and be prepared to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Know Your Software Tools
Mechanical engineering often involves specific software like CAD and MATLAB, and they might throw in some questions about them. Make sure you're pretty familiar with how these tools work and maybe even show off a project where you used them, as this could really impress your interviewers at MBDA Miissle System.
✨Emphasise Your Learning Potential
As it's a placement, they're looking for enthusiasm to learn as much as your technical skills. Be ready to talk about what you hope to gain from the experience and how you plan to apply what you've learned in your studies so far to real-world scenarios at MBDA Miissle System.
✨Prepare for Hands-On Assessments
Often for placements, you might face practical assessments or group tasks. Don't be shy about showcasing your hands-on experience during the interview, whether it's from university projects, competitions, or part-time jobs. Showing you've got the practical skills to back up your studies will set you apart!
