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: Structured development programme with real customer interaction and excellent career prospects.
- Why this job: Gain valuable skills in technical sales with potential for a full-time career.
- Qualifications: Studying Business, Engineering, or related fields with strong communication and analytical 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.
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) 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 quality assurance within a leading aerospace engineering environment. With a fully paid 6-month internship, dedicated mentoring, and a structured development programme, interns can expect to grow their skills while working on real projects for prestigious clients like GE Aviation and BAE Systems. Our supportive work culture fosters continuous improvement and provides a clear pathway to full-time employment, all within our state-of-the-art facilities in Hampshire.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales 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 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 knowledge. Familiarise yourself with basic engineering concepts and the aerospace industry. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to dive into the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves customer interaction, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. Try mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨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 you’re serious about joining the team at R E Thompson. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Sales Internship (University Students)
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 we’re looking for strong numerical and analytical skills, include examples of how you've used these in your studies or previous roles. This could be through projects, coursework, or even part-time jobs.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
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 precision engineering, as well as the specific clients R E Thompson works with. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your numerical, analytical, and communication skills. Think of situations where you've successfully solved problems or communicated effectively, especially in a team setting. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities outlined in the internship.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Come prepared with thoughtful questions about the role, the company culture, and the projects you'll be involved in. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you assess if the internship aligns with your career goals. Questions about mentorship and growth opportunities can be particularly impactful.
✨Be Yourself
While it's important to be professional, don't forget to let your personality shine through. R E Thompson is looking for proactive individuals who are detail-oriented and organised. Show them your passion for technical sales and how you can contribute to their team, while also being authentic and relatable.
