At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in production scheduling and team coordination at a leading aerospace facility.
- Company: Join R E Thompson, a top precision aerospace engineering company with 75 years of expertise.
- Benefits: Earn £27,000 for 6 months, receive dedicated mentoring, and enjoy potential full-time career opportunities.
- Other info: Structured development programme with real project experience and on-site parking.
- Why this job: Dive into high-tech manufacturing and make a real impact in the aerospace industry.
- Qualifications: Studying Business, Engineering, or Operations Management with strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 27000 € per year.
Are you interested in operations management and how high-tech manufacturing really works? Our Production Internship gives you hands‑on experience in production scheduling, team coordination, and managing operations at one of the UK’s most advanced aerospace manufacturing facilities.
This is a fully paid 6‑month programme with dedicated mentoring, real responsibility, and genuine potential for a full‑time career. £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.
Key Responsibilities:
- Understand production planning and scheduling in a precision engineering environment
- Learn how to coordinate teams and manage workflow
- Experience working with advanced automation systems (Fastems FMS)
- Support daily operations and help drive production results
- Learn to monitor and report on key performance indicators
- Understand capacity planning and resource allocation
- Participate in team meetings and operational reviews
- Gain exposure to lean manufacturing principles
Programme Phases:
- 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, Operations Management, or related discipline
- Interest in manufacturing operations and team leadership
- Good organisational and communication skills
- Attention to detail and ability to work to deadlines
- Proactive attitude and eagerness to learn
- Proficient with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel
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
How to Apply:
Please apply via Indeed before the 22 May 2026 deadline. You’ll need to include your CV and a brief statement explaining why you’re interested in this internship. Please note that candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Production Internship (University Students) employer: R.E. Thompson & Co. Ltd
R E Thompson is an exceptional employer, offering university students a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a cutting-edge aerospace manufacturing environment. With a fully paid 6-month internship programme, dedicated mentoring, and a clear pathway to full-time employment, we foster a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Located in Hampshire, our state-of-the-art facilities provide an inspiring backdrop for aspiring professionals eager to make their mark in the high-tech manufacturing sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Production Internship (University Students)
✨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 insider tips they might have. This can give you a leg up when it comes to understanding the company culture and what they really value.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on your knowledge of production processes and lean manufacturing principles. We want to see that you’re genuinely interested in operations management, so be ready to discuss how you can contribute to the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your organisational skills during the interview. Bring examples of how you've managed projects or coordinated teams in the past. This will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities of the internship and make you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about wanting to join our team at R E Thompson.
We think you need these skills to ace Production Internship (University Students)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight relevant experiences, skills, and any projects that showcase your interest in operations management and manufacturing. Tailor it to reflect what we’re looking for in the Production Internship.
Write a Personal Statement:In your statement, let us know why you’re excited about this internship. Share your passion for manufacturing and how your studies relate to the role. Be genuine and show us your proactive attitude and eagerness to learn!
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency with Microsoft Office, especially Excel. If you have any experience with team coordination or project management, make sure to include that too. We love seeing attention to detail and organisational skills!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. Make sure to submit your application before the deadline on 22 May 2026. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at R.E. Thompson & Co. Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into understanding R E Thompson and their operations. Familiarise yourself with their advanced manufacturing processes and the specific technologies they use, like the Fastems FMS. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you stand out.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your organisational and communication skills. Think of examples from your studies or previous experiences where you've successfully coordinated a team or managed a project. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the internship.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the internship and the company. Inquire about the mentoring process or how they implement lean manufacturing principles. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the internship aligns with your career goals.
✨Be Proactive and Positive
Exude a proactive attitude during the interview. Share instances where you've taken the initiative in your studies or projects. A positive mindset can be contagious, and it’s something employers love to see in potential interns!
