Economics Sandwich Placement Student (Fixed Term Contract 12 months)

Economics Sandwich Placement Student (Fixed Term Contract 12 months)

Placement 18000 - 25000 € / year (est.) No home office possible
National Physical Laboratory (NPL)

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support economists and data analysts in real-world economic evaluations and analysis.
  • Company: Join the National Physical Laboratory, a leader in scientific research and innovation.
  • Benefits: Gain valuable work experience, develop technical skills, and enhance your employability.
  • Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact by helping shape important decisions with your analytical skills.
  • Qualifications: Must have a minimum 2:1 in an analytical degree and a passion for economics.

The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 € per year.

About the Role

If you are expected to achieve at least a 2:1 in an analytical degree (e.g., economics, statistics, mathematics, physics) and wish to enhance your employability through relevant work experience, an industrial placement with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) gives you the opportunity to provide hands‑on support to our team of economists and data analysts. The Analysis & Evaluation (A&E) team applies economic knowledge to real‑world problems, helping government monitor and evaluate the economic impact of NPL. The role involves developing business cases, supporting Value for Money (VfM) analysis, and taking on progressively greater responsibility as you gain experience.

What you’ll be doing

  • Develop technical analytical skills, including applied data analysis using statistical software.
  • Present and communicate complex analysis in non‑technical language to non‑economists.
  • Develop professional report‑writing skills for both technical and non‑technical reports.
  • Assist in developing and delivering analysis that enables senior leadership to make important decisions for projects.
  • Develop knowledge assets (case studies and databases) to support robust analysis and evidence‑based decision‑making.

About You

You’ll be a well‑organised, independently driven, ambitious individual with effective communication skills and the ability to think and work flexibly. You are passionate about working in a collaborative team environment.

Qualifications

  • Minimum 2:1 in an analytical degree (economics, statistics, mathematics, physics) or equivalent.
  • Understanding of mathematics and/or statistics, ideally with an interest in economics or science policy.
  • Willful desire to develop technical skills in Microsoft Excel and other statistical software.
  • Requirement to obtain BPSS security clearance.

Diversity and Equality

NPL welcomes applications from candidates irrespective of background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age. We encourage applicants from under‑represented groups and guarantee interviews under the Disability Confident Scheme for disabled candidates who meet the minimum criteria.

Economics Sandwich Placement Student (Fixed Term Contract 12 months) employer: National Physical Laboratory (NPL)

The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic and inclusive work environment, perfect for aspiring economists looking to gain practical experience. With a strong focus on employee development, NPL provides opportunities for professional growth through hands-on projects and collaboration with experienced analysts, all while contributing to impactful government initiatives. Located in Teddington, NPL not only fosters a culture of innovation and teamwork but also values diversity and equality, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected.

National Physical Laboratory (NPL)

Contact Detail:

National Physical Laboratory (NPL) Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Economics Sandwich Placement Student (Fixed Term Contract 12 months)

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at NPL on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the placement. Personal connections can make a huge difference!

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to economics and data analysis. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or using online resources to get comfortable with articulating your thoughts clearly.

Tip Number 3

Showcase your analytical skills! Bring examples of your work, like projects or reports, to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas in simple terms. This will help you stand out during interviews.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!

We think you need these skills to ace Economics Sandwich Placement Student (Fixed Term Contract 12 months)

Analytical Skills
Applied Data Analysis
Statistical Software Proficiency
Communication Skills
Report Writing Skills
Value for Money (VfM) Analysis
Business Case Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your analytical skills and any relevant experience in economics or data analysis. We want to see how your background fits with what we do at NPL!

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this placement and how your skills can contribute to our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!

Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your technical skills, especially in Microsoft Excel and any statistical software you’ve used. We’re looking for someone eager to develop these skills further, so let us know what you’ve got!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly, and we can’t wait to hear from you!

How to prepare for a job interview at National Physical Laboratory (NPL)

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your economics and analytical skills. Be ready to discuss how your degree has prepared you for the role, especially in applied data analysis and business case development. Familiarise yourself with statistical software that might be relevant to the job.

Communicate Clearly

Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. Since you'll need to present your analysis to non-economists, think about how you can break down your findings into digestible pieces. This will show your ability to communicate effectively within a team.

Show Your Passion

Let your enthusiasm for economics and data analysis shine through. Talk about any projects or experiences that sparked your interest in the field. Employers love candidates who are genuinely excited about their work and eager to learn more.

Prepare Questions

Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of the interview. This could be about the team dynamics, the types of projects you'll be working on, or how success is measured in the role. It shows you're engaged and serious about the opportunity.