At a Glance
- Tasks: Develop software and contribute to innovative projects in a collaborative Agile team.
- Company: Join Northrop Grumman UK, a leader in defence and technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, private healthcare, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Structured 12-month programme with mentorship and networking opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining hands-on experience in software engineering.
- Qualifications: Passion for coding and problem-solving; experience in Python, Java, or JavaScript.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 25000 £ per year.
UK CITIZENSHIP REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION: Yes
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: No relocation assistance available
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Salary: £25,000
Programme start date: September 2027
Citizenship required: UK citizenship required
Security clearance: Security Check (SC)
Travel required: Approximately 10%
Location: Cheltenham
Working arrangement: Flexible working options subject to the role and programme needs
Hours: Full-time
Requisition ID: R10251089
What’s your possible?
At Northrop Grumman UK, you’ll be part of a team driving innovation where it matters most, solving tomorrow’s challenges and shaping the technology solutions of the future. We call it Defining Possible. This mindset goes beyond our customer solutions; it’s the foundation for your career development and the impact we have within the community.
This is more than just a job. It’s a mission.
Ready to gain practical software engineering experience by contributing to technology projects with real purpose? As an Industrial Placement Software Engineer within our Cyber & Intelligence business, you will contribute to projects spanning cyber innovation, research and development, big data analytics and systems architecture. Your work will help support customers with complex and sensitive data and information requirements as they deliver ambitious digital transformation programmes.
Working as part of an Agile development team, you will help create clean, well-constructed and unit-tested code. You will also contribute to feature design, system testing, operational support and continuous improvement, gaining experience across different stages of the software development lifecycle.
This is an opportunity to apply your academic learning, strengthen your technical skills and understand how high-quality software is developed and supported within defence and security.
Our Industrial Placement Programme
Our structured 12-month Industrial Placement Programme is designed to help you develop the practical skills needed to build a successful career in defence and technology. Starting in September 2027, the programme will give you the opportunity to contribute to meaningful software engineering work and take part in an Industrial Placement group project. You will have a dedicated mentor, buddy, project lead and line manager, providing guidance and support throughout your placement. From the beginning, you will contribute as part of an Agile team while learning from experienced software engineers and building your professional network across Northrop Grumman UK.
What you’ll do:
- Help create clean, well-constructed and unit-tested code
- Complete development and support activities managed through the team’s Scrum board
- Assist with debugging and fault-finding for operational systems
- Support the design of features from the team’s product roadmap
- Work with the Product Owner and project stakeholders during design activities
- Contribute to sprint ceremonies, continuous improvement and team planning
- Write system tests under the guidance of the team’s test manager
Along the way, you could develop experience in:
- Agile software development
- Clean coding and unit testing
- Feature design and technical decision-making
- Debugging and fault-finding
- Operational system support
- System testing
- Product Owner and stakeholder collaboration
- Sprint planning and continuous improvement
What we’re looking for:
We are looking for students who are passionate about software development and computing, enjoy solving challenging problems and want to build practical experience within a collaborative Agile team. You will bring an analytical approach, logical reasoning and a willingness to learn from the people around you.
Essential:
- Currently working towards a relevant degree, such as Software Engineering or Computer Science (or can demonstrate equivalent knowledge and skills through work experience or other training)
- A genuine passion for software development and computing
- Experience writing code in Python, Java or JavaScript
- An understanding of the software development lifecycle
- An understanding of the importance of delivering work to deadlines
- Strong analytical skills and logical reasoning
- The ability to approach problems and develop innovative solutions
We welcome applications from candidates who have gained relevant skills outside of traditional degree routes. If you've built your expertise through work experience, an apprenticeship, professional certifications, bootcamps, open-source contributions, or significant personal projects, then we encourage your application. If you do not meet every requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Sometimes people hesitate because they cannot tick every box. If this opportunity interests you and you believe you could grow into the role, we would like to hear from you.
Security clearance:
Due to the nature of our work, you must have Sole UK citizenship and be able to gain and maintain UK Government Security Check clearance in line with the requirements of the role.
Our recruitment team is on hand to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Contact Earlycareers@uk.ngc.com for further information.
Benefits:
- Flexible working options, including hybrid arrangements and compressed fortnights with every other Friday off
- Private healthcare, dental, life assurance and pension
- Flexible benefits package, including critical illness cover and a health cash plan
- Holiday buy and sell scheme
- Career development programmes
- Annual performance incentive programme
Why join us?
- A Mission to Believe In: Every day, we contribute to building a more secure and connected world.
- A Place to Belong and Thrive: Every voice matters. Find community and belonging through our employee networks and get involved with STEM volunteering events.
- Your Career, Your Way: Discover your possible through diverse roles, mentorship and development opportunities tailored to your ambitions.
Ready to apply?
Yes: Submit your application online.
Possibly: If you would like to learn more about the programme, the role or the security clearance process, contact Earlycareers@uk.ngc.com.
Not this opportunity: Explore other opportunities with us. We’re growing across the UK.
Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.
Industrial Placement - Software Engineer in Cheltenham employer: Northrop Grumman
Northrop Grumman UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. As a Lead Software Engineer, you will benefit from a flexible hybrid model, extensive mentorship opportunities, and the chance to work on impactful projects that shape the future of technology. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, Northrop Grumman UK is committed to fostering a supportive environment where your contributions truly matter.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Industrial Placement - Software Engineer in Cheltenham
✨Get Involved with Open Source Projects
Diving into open source is a fantastic way to showcase your skills and build a solid portfolio that speaks volumes. Contributing to projects on platforms like GitHub not only helps you learn, but it puts your work in front of potential employers, including places like Northrop Grumman!
✨Attend Hackathons and Tech Meetups
Jumping into hackathons or local tech meetups can give you great exposure to the industry. Not only do you get to network with like-minded individuals, but you might even catch the attention of recruiters from companies like Northrop Grumman while collaborating on exciting projects.
✨Leverage University Career Services
Don’t underestimate the power of your university's career services! They often have connections with companies looking for placement candidates like us. They can guide you on preparing for interviews and even help set up networking events.
✨Show Off Your Projects on Your Personal Website
Create a portfolio website to showcase your coding projects and development skills. This is a brilliant way to give a peek into your personality and capabilities while letting potential employers like Northrop Grumman see your work up close. Plus, it shows you're proactive!
We think you need these skills to ace Industrial Placement - Software Engineer in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Projects:In software engineering, showcasing your portfolio is key! Include links to GitHub repositories or any relevant projects you've worked on. This will give us a clear idea of your coding skills and what you can bring to Northrop Grumman.
Highlight Relevant Skills:Make sure to emphasise programming languages, frameworks, and tools you’re familiar with on your CV. For a placement, we love seeing candidates who are eager to learn and adapt, so don’t hesitate to include any relevant coursework or certifications you’ve completed.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:In your cover letter, focus on why you’re interested in a placement with Northrop Grumman specifically. Tell us what you hope to learn and how we fit into your career goals—not just what you can do for us, but what you want to gain from the experience.
Be Ready to Talk Tech:Prepare for the possibility of a technical assessment or interview. Brush up on coding challenges and be ready to discuss your approach to problem-solving. Remember, we are looking for your thought process and ability to learn, not just the correct answer!
How to prepare for a job interview at Northrop Grumman
✨Brush Up on Your Coding Skills
For a software engineering placement at Northrop Grumman, be ready to tackle coding challenges. You might face questions on algorithms, data structures, or even a live coding session. Practising on platforms like LeetCode or HackerRank can really sharpen your skills and boost your confidence!
✨Showcase Your Projects
Have a couple of your projects on hand to discuss during the interview. Whether it's a personal project or something from your coursework, being able to explain your thought process, the technologies you used, and any challenges you faced can make a great impression. Be prepared to dive into the specifics and even share your GitHub link!
✨Understand the Tech Stack
Make sure you're familiar with the technologies and tools that Northrop Grumman uses. If you see mentions of specific languages or frameworks in the job description, brush up on them. This shows your enthusiasm and preparedness for the role, making you a more attractive candidate!
✨Be Ready to Learn and Adapt
As this is a placement, the hiring team at Northrop Grumman will be keen to hear about your motivation and potential to grow. Be open about what you want to learn from the role. Highlight experiences where you've adapted to new situations or picked up new skills quickly to showcase your enthusiasm for the opportunity.
