At a Glance
- Tasks: Join exciting projects in engineering, sustainability, and digital innovation.
- Company: Mott MacDonald, a global leader in engineering and consultancy.
- Benefits: Competitive hourly rate, hands-on experience, and a supportive learning environment.
- Other info: Flexible placements with a focus on collaboration and community involvement.
- Why this job: Launch your career with real-world impact and valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Currently enrolled in a degree course; proactive and effective communicator.
We have two main intake dates for our 2026 summer placements: Monday 22nd June and Monday 6th July. We will ask you to advise your preferred start date in the application form. Our summer placements last for eight weeks.
Job Description
At Mott MacDonald, we believe in the power of potential. Our placements are more than just work experience - they’re a launchpad for your future, a place where your curiosity is welcomed, your ideas are valued, and your growth is supported every step of the way.
What Makes This Placement Different?
Our opportunities span a wide range of sectors and teams, each offering a unique experience. Whether you\'re passionate about engineering, sustainability, digital innovation, or business operations, you’ll find a space here to explore your interests and make a meaningful contribution.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. That’s why our placements are flexible, you’ll have the freedom to take ownership, ask questions, and get involved in real projects that matter - all while learning from graduates, experienced professionals, and fellow students.
We have opportunities in our Buildings; Energy; Transport and Water and Environment sectors.
What You’ll Experience
- Collaboration & Community: Work alongside diverse teams who are passionate, supportive, and driven by shared purpose.
- Real-World Impact: Contribute to meaningful projects that make a difference - for our business, our communities, and the world.
- Learning & Growth: Gain hands-on experience, develop new skills, and discover what drives you.
- Belonging & Inclusion: Be part of a culture where everyone is respected, heard, and empowered to thrive.
During the application process, you’ll be able to explore opportunities based on your degree discipline, sector interests, and preferred location. If you’re invited to interview, we’ll dive deeper into the specific role you’ve applied for and how it aligns with your strengths.
Candidate Specification
To join us for a summer placement you must currently be enrolled on a degree course at university, however, if you are graduating from your current degree in 2026 with no plans to enrol onto a further course then we would encourage you to explore our graduate opportunities.
We’re Looking For Students With The Following Characteristics
- Proactively takes initiative to complete tasks efficiently and independently.
- Communicates effectively and clearly with clients and colleagues.
- Delivers high quality written work with strong attention to detail and clarity.
- Demonstrates a structured and analytical approach to problem solving.
We’re looking for highly motivated students who are passionate about learning from our industry experts. You’ll be given the opportunity to gain invaluable experience working on some of the exciting projects that are helping to shape tomorrow’s world.
We understand that to put your learning into practice it’s important that you’re given an accurate insight in to our innovative industry. With enough work placement experience under your belt you can get just that. Think of it as a worthwhile investment towards your future career.
We place a lot of emphasis on giving you a realistic view of our world, so you can decide if it’s the industry you want to work in.
Many of the employees that we recruit for our graduate schemes are students that have made an impression during their placements with us, so remember, this could be the start of a promising career for you with Mott MacDonald.
We are a living wage employer, so we offer a great hourly rate for your placement with us.
Our social side
Being part of Mott MacDonald means more than just work, there’s a huge range of fun and exciting things that you can get involved in. From the moment you join us, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your social and professional network, whether it’s meeting other placement students and graduates or joining forces with other members of staff from around the company at our annual sports day. Each of our offices have a sports and social committee which will give you the chance to be part of a variety of sports, social and charity events. We’re committed to promoting a strong culture of social responsibility and encourage our staff to play active roles in the local community.
It\'s worth noting that sports and social committees tend to vary from office to office, so as well as getting involved in what’s already on offer, don’t be afraid to suggest new events or initiatives that you think could be a great addition.
Equality, diversity and inclusion
We put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our business, seeking to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all. We encourage individual expression in our workplace and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they have the opportunity to contribute.
Agile working
At Mott MacDonald, we believe it makes business sense for you and your manager to choose how you can work most effectively to meet your client, team and personal commitments. We embrace agility, flexibility and trust.
More About Mott MacDonald
We’re a global engineering, management and development consultancy.
Our purpose is to improve society by considering social outcomes in everything we do, relentlessly focusing on excellence and digital innovation, transforming our clients’ businesses, our communities and employee opportunities.
A fundamental part of this is respecting each person’s differences and striving to meet their needs.
Our values: progress, respect, integrity, drive, excellence
Location(s):
Altrincham, GB York, GB Croydon, GB Norwich, GB Glasgow, GB Cardiff, GB Newcastle Upon Tyne, GB Reading, GB Manchester, GB Brighton, GB Reading, GB Cambridge, GB Edinburgh, GB Leeds, GB Sheffield, GB London, GB Southampton, GB Bristol, GB Birmingham, GB Exeter, GB
Contract Type: Contract
Work Pattern: Full Time
Market: Various
Discipline: Civil
Job Ref: 11678
Recruiter Contact: earlycareers.recruitment@mottmac.com
2026 UK Summer Placement Programme in Manchester employer: Mott MacDonald
Mott MacDonald is an exceptional employer that prioritises your growth and development through hands-on experience in a supportive and inclusive environment. With a focus on collaboration and real-world impact, you will have the opportunity to work on meaningful projects across various sectors while being part of a vibrant community that values diversity and social responsibility. Our flexible placements empower you to take ownership of your learning journey, making this an ideal launchpad for your future career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 UK Summer Placement Programme in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Mott MacDonald! Research their projects and values so you can chat about them during interviews. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you stand out.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills with friends or family. Mock interviews can help you feel more confident and ready to tackle those tricky questions when the time comes.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current or past interns on LinkedIn. They can share insights about their experiences and might even give you tips on how to impress during your placement.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Mott MacDonald team.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 UK Summer Placement Programme in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application for the 2026 UK Summer Placement Programme. Highlight your relevant skills and experiences that align with what we’re looking for, like effective communication and problem-solving abilities.
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm shine through! We want to see your genuine interest in the sectors we operate in, whether it’s engineering, sustainability, or digital innovation. Share why you’re excited about the opportunity to work with us.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and keep your points concise. We appreciate high-quality written work, so make sure to proofread for any errors before hitting submit!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the programme and how to make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mott MacDonald
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you research Mott MacDonald and their projects. Understand their values, especially around sustainability and innovation, so you can show how your interests align with theirs.
✨Show Your Initiative
During the interview, highlight examples where you've taken initiative in your studies or projects. Mott MacDonald is looking for proactive students, so share specific instances where you’ve gone above and beyond.
✨Communicate Clearly
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Effective communication is key, so consider doing mock interviews with friends or family to refine your delivery and ensure you convey your ideas well.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare a few insightful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the company, and it’s a great way to demonstrate your curiosity about the projects they’re involved in.
