At a Glance
- Tasks: Support design and modelling of electric actuators and control electronics for our innovative aircraft.
- Company: Join Vertical Aerospace, a pioneer in electric aviation with a mission to redefine aerospace standards.
- Benefits: Enjoy 26 days holiday, flexible working, and a performance-based bonus.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of flight while gaining hands-on engineering experience.
- Qualifications: Studying aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or systems engineering with a passion for complex systems.
- Other info: Structured support with mentorship and exposure to live projects in a dynamic team environment.
The predicted salary is between 500 - 1500 Β£ per month.
Our Mission At Vertical Aerospace, we are pioneering the way for electric aviation. The Valo, our eVTOL (electric, vertical, take-off and landing), 'zero emissions' aircraft will set a new safety standard for how we will navigate the sky. We won't realise our mission following the same legacy processes and traditions our predecessors followed; instead, we want to 'redefine' aerospace best practices. We are growing quickly from a prototype business to a scaling SME, and the next few years will be critical to our success and delivering on our ambitious goals. Valo is targeting airliner-level safety certification in 2028 ahead of entering service with our airline and operator customers.
Make your mark on the future of flight - this summer From June to August, we're offering a 3-month internship opportunity within our Flight Controls team, where you'll help us shape the systems that physically move the aircraft. You won't just be observing - you'll be hands-on from day one, supporting the development and integration of electric actuators and control electronics for our Valo aircraft. You'll join the Actuation team, working closely with experienced engineers and suppliers to solve real engineering problems. Whether you're modelling dynamic behaviours or contributing to system validation, your work will play a part in building a zero-emissions aircraft that sets new standards in aerospace safety.
Expect structured support throughout the internship, including a dedicated mentor, regular feedback, and exposure to live engineering projects and decision-making. If you're curious, motivated, and want to learn through doing, we'd love to hear from you.
What You'll Be Doing
- Support design and modelling activities across electric actuators and control electronics
- Help analyse loads, performance, and dynamic behaviour
- Assist in validating the flight control actuation system
- Contribute to requirements and traceability documentation
- Collaborate across teams and communicate your findings clearly
Who We're Looking For
We're looking for students who are excited by complex systems, collaborative by nature, and eager to grow through real-world engineering experience.
You Should Be
- Studying towards a degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, or systems engineering
- Interested in electromechanical systems and control hardware
- Comfortable with modelling or data analysis tools
- A clear communicator with a methodical, safety-conscious approach
- Motivated to learn and make a real contribution
If you don't tick every boxβthat's okay. We value curiosity, potential, and a willingness to learn.
What happens next?
We're excited to learn more about you. Here's how our recruitment process works:
- Apply - Submit your CV along with a brief cover letter (at the top of your CV) addressing these three questions: What excites you about Vertical Aerospace? What are you hoping to gain from an internship with us? How do you stay organised when working on time-critical projects? (max 200 words)
- First Stage - Successful applicants will be asked to complete a short take-home written technical exercise
- Second Stage - We'll invite you to a friendly 20-minute video call with one of our Talent Partners to get to know you better.
- Final Stage - Ideally, our hiring manager would love to meet you face-to-face at our Camwal Court Bristol office. If that's not possible, we're happy to arrange a remote Teams interview instead.
We're aiming to complete all stages by end of February so we can extend offers shortly afterwards. We'll keep you informed at every step of the journey.
What can you expect from us?
We're on a mission. Where others see limits, we see opportunity, and we work at pace. Working at Vertical isn't your average role but for those seeking a challenge, a flexible, supportive organisation and an incredible team; working here is an opportunity to do the best work of your career. Our approach promotes ingenuity and courage, while our environment builds success through diligence in safety and being open in the way we work. The only way we're going to assure the next chapter of aviation history is by working as a team, relentlessly, towards our goal.
Our Benefits
Our people matter - we're not going anywhere without them. Which is why our company benefits go beyond the essentials.
- 26 days holiday, plus bank holiday
- 5 extra days per year to buy (or sell)
- 5 extra days holiday when you get married or enter a civil partnership
- Additional 4% of your salary to spend on extra benefits
- Award-winning digital health and wellbeing service
- Company performance-based bonus - rewarding company and individual performance
- Company Share Scheme - open to every Vertical employee
- Company Pension Scheme - 5% and we match it
- Breakfast on us, every day
We may just be the hardest job you've ever had, but we're confident it will be the most rewarding. Join the team today and help us shape the future of Advanced Air Mobility.
Disclaimer Statement
We encourage you to apply even if you may not have all the experience listed in the advert. We recognise that talent comes in various forms and we are committed to providing opportunities that create an environment of growth, diversity, and inclusion for everyone. As part of our desire to review and make our processes fair, we may ask you questions related to these aspects during the application process.
Flight Controls 2026 Summer Internship - Actuation in Bristol employer: TargetJobs UK
Contact Detail:
TargetJobs UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Flight Controls 2026 Summer Internship - Actuation in Bristol
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research Vertical Aerospace, their mission, and the Valo aircraft. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their journey.
β¨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for the technical exercise by brushing up on your modelling and data analysis skills. The more confident you are, the better you'll perform when it comes to showcasing your abilities.
β¨Tip Number 3
Donβt underestimate the power of networking! Connect with current or former interns and employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about what to expect during the interview process.
β¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Itβs the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows that youβre proactive and serious about joining the team at Vertical Aerospace.
We think you need these skills to ace Flight Controls 2026 Summer Internship - Actuation in Bristol
Some tips for your application π«‘
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Start your application with a brief cover letter that answers the three key questions. Make sure to express your excitement about Vertical Aerospace and what you hope to gain from the internship. Keep it concise and engaging!
Show Off Your Skills: When writing your CV, highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the role. Focus on your studies in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering, and any hands-on projects you've worked on. We want to see your potential!
Be Organised and Clear: Since the role involves time-critical projects, demonstrate your organisational skills in your application. Share specific examples of how you manage your time and tasks effectively, as this will show us you're ready for the challenge.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. This helps us keep track of all applications and ensures youβre considered for the role. We canβt wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at TargetJobs UK
β¨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Vertical Aerospace's mission and the specifics of the Flight Controls team. Familiarise yourself with electric actuators and control electronics, as well as any recent advancements in eVTOL technology. This will show your genuine interest and help you engage in meaningful conversations.
β¨Prepare Your Questions
Think about what you want to know from them. Ask about their approach to safety standards or how they support interns in their learning journey. This not only demonstrates your curiosity but also helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
β¨Showcase Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your experience with modelling or data analysis tools. Prepare examples of projects where you've collaborated on complex systems or solved engineering problems. Highlighting your hands-on experience will make you stand out as a candidate eager to contribute.
β¨Communicate Clearly
During the interview, articulate your thoughts clearly and methodically. Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms, as this reflects your ability to communicate effectively across teams. Remember, they value clear communication just as much as technical skills!