At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn technical sales in a B2B engineering environment and support customer relationships.
- Company: Join R E Thompson, a leading aerospace engineering company with 75 years of experience.
- Benefits: Fully paid internship, competitive salary, dedicated mentoring, and real project experience.
- Other info: Potential pathway to full-time employment after the internship.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in technical sales with prestigious aerospace and defence clients.
- Qualifications: Currently studying Business, Engineering, or related fields with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 27000 € per year.
Want to learn technical sales in a B2B engineering environment? Our Sales Internship combines commercial skills with technical understanding. You’ll learn how to prepare quotations, understand customer requirements, and support relationships with prestigious aerospace and defence clients. This is a fully paid 6-month programme with dedicated mentoring, real customer interaction, and genuine potential for a full-time career in technical sales.
£27,000 per annum (pro-rata for 6 months)
Start Date: Monday 6th July 2026
About Us: R E Thompson is a leading precision aerospace engineering company with over 75 years of experience providing complete manufacturing solutions. Operating from our advanced facilities in Hampshire, we are home to the UK’s most sophisticated automated 5-axis machine shop. Our state-of-the-art Flexible Manufacturing System enables 24/7 lights-out production, and we hold AS9100, ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001 certifications. We work with prestigious clients including GE Aviation, BAE Systems, and Ontic, delivering complex precision components for the aerospace, defence, automotive, and electronics industries.
- Learn to prepare manufacturing quotations for precision components
- Understand how to read and interpret technical drawings
- Support customer communications and relationship building
- Learn to assess manufacturing requirements and costs
- Use CRM systems to track opportunities and customer data
- Assist with contract review and order processing
- Gain exposure to aerospace industry requirements
- Understand the sales cycle in precision engineering
Phase 1 (Months 1-3): Induction, shadowing, guided tasks, building operational understanding
Phase 1 Review: Assessment of progress and suitability for Phase 2
Phase 2 (Months 4-6): Greater responsibility, supporting scheduling, full team integration
Final Assessment: Review with potential for full-time job offer
What We're Looking For:
- Currently studying Business, Engineering, or related discipline
- Interest in technical sales and customer relationships
- Strong numerical and analytical skills
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Detail-oriented and organised
- Proactive attitude and commercial awareness
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary of £27,000 per annum (pro-rata)
- Dedicated mentor from day one
- Structured development programme
- Real project experience for your CV
- On-site parking
- Potential pathway to full-time employment
Please note that candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Sales Internship (University Students) in Basingstoke employer: R.E. Thompson & Co. Ltd
R E Thompson is an exceptional employer for aspiring sales professionals, offering a fully paid 6-month Sales Internship that blends technical knowledge with commercial skills in a dynamic B2B engineering environment. With dedicated mentoring, real customer interactions, and the potential for a full-time career, interns will thrive in a supportive culture that values growth and development, all while working at our state-of-the-art facilities in Hampshire, renowned for their advanced manufacturing capabilities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Internship (University Students) in Basingstoke
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former interns at R E Thompson on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the internship. Personal connections can make a huge difference!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical sales knowledge. Familiarise yourself with the aerospace and defence sectors, and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to customer relationships. Show us you’re keen and knowledgeable!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it’s through mock interviews or casual chats with friends, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. We want to see that you can engage effectively with clients and colleagues alike.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re genuinely interested in joining our team. Get your application in and let’s get started on this journey together!
We think you need these skills to ace Sales Internship (University Students) in Basingstoke
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Sales Internship. Highlight any relevant coursework or projects in Business or Engineering, and don’t forget to mention your interest in technical sales!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re excited about this internship and how your background makes you a great fit. Be sure to mention your communication skills and proactive attitude.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since strong numerical and analytical skills are key for this role, consider including examples of how you've used these skills in your studies or previous experiences. This will help us see your potential in a technical sales environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at R.E. Thompson & Co. Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of technical sales and the aerospace industry. Brush up on key terms and concepts related to B2B sales, as well as the specific products and services offered by R E Thompson. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your numerical, analytical, and communication skills. Think of situations where you've successfully worked in a team or solved a problem. Relate these experiences back to how they would benefit you in the Sales Internship role.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the internship and the company. Inquire about the mentoring process, the types of projects you'll be involved in, or how success is measured during the internship. This shows you're engaged and serious about the opportunity.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don't forget to let your personality shine through. Companies like R E Thompson value a proactive attitude and a good cultural fit. Be honest about your interests and aspirations in technical sales, and don’t hesitate to express your enthusiasm for the role.
