At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in exciting engineering projects and gain hands-on experience during your summer placement.
- Company: Join Murphy, a leading international engineering and construction company with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary, gain valuable work experience, and secure a place on our graduate programme.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your engineering career with real-world projects and a fast track to employment after university.
- Qualifications: Must be pursuing an accredited engineering degree with strong A-level grades.
Sponsored Student Placement Programme (Engineering) - UK
Start date: First summer placement commencing June 2026.
Building your career, constructing our future - join an engineering sponsored student programme with us!
Please note, this placement programme is open for first- and second-year University students only and we are recruiting in a variety of locations nationwide that align with our key projects.
We are offering places on a sponsored student programme geared towards Civil and Mechanical Engineering University students. If you are pursuing a degree in a relevant area and are keen to get up close with fascinating construction projects on your summer and industrial placements, with a fast track to our graduate development programme once you finish uni, this opportunity may be right for you.
About Us
Murphy is a leading international, multi-disciplined engineering and construction company founded in 1951 that improves life by delivering world‑class infrastructure. Operating in the United Kingdom, Ireland and North America, Murphy provides better engineered solutions to infrastructure sectors including transportation, water, power and natural resources. We also have a number of related businesses – Ground Engineering; Utility Connections; Murphy Plant; Murphy Process Engineering; Pipeline Testing Services; Specialist Welding Services; and Electrical Services. Murphy is a specialist in delivering pipelines, design, structural steel, tunnelling, fabrication, bridges and piling, and has a substantial holding of plant, equipment and facilities. We employ more than 4,300 engineers, professional managers and skilled operatives around the world. Together, we work as ‘One Murphy’ by directly delivering the people, plant and expertise needed to make projects a success. There’s more to Murphy.
Murphy Goes Green
- 36% reduction in carbon emission intensity to date
- 98% of waste diverted from landfill
- Introduced cleaner burning Gas‑to‑Liquid fuel (first construction company in the UK)
- Installed electric and hybrid car charging points
- Working towards being Net Zero by 2030
What’s in it for you
- Paid work experience gained on summer and industrial placements with us throughout the course of university study, starting with a summer placement in 2025. Earning a pro‑rata professional salary and gaining hands‑on experience in a leading construction business, as well achieving a yearly bonus as part of the ongoing placement programme
- Place on the graduate programme at the end helps lift your final year worries about graduate unemployment. You will be able to concentrate on your course and upcoming exams with a peace of mind that you have secured a graduate role, without the distraction of job applications
- Confidence in being able to hit the ground running, with a solid understanding of Murphy from the day you start full time work with us on a graduate programme
What you’ll be involved in and the experience you’ll get
We are one of the biggest contractors in the UK and Ireland and have hundreds of live projects at any given time. This is why it’d be hard to explain what awaits on a page! To give you a flavour though, you can expect to get involved in the following:
Civil Engineering
- Read and understand the scope of the works, contract and works information for the project – to fully understand what the project and what we in Murphy are building
- Look at specifications and relevant standards to the project and the client
- Learn how to read site drawings and how to use them on site
- Work alongside the Site Engineer on the project, setting up engineering instruments and undertake setting out duties
- Carrying out surveying duties and creating Inspection and test Plans for the activities on the project
- Reading and understanding site documents – Risk Assessments/Method Statements
- Attend site progress meetings to understand the programme requirements of the project
- Familiarising and carrying out inspections on materials and equipment on site
- Prepare a short presentation summarising the above project and report to be presented to line manager / members of the team
- The review of technical specifications, reports and documents
- Working with an Engineer reviewing / producing / updating project drawings using CAD or REVIT software packages
- Reviewing specifications / data sheets in support of design and procurement activities
- Learn to integrate existing 2D drawings and technical documentation to extract relevant information to build the drawing
- Undertake simulated engineering activities under the supervision of Senior Engineers
- Learn to understand and read design calculations
- Attend and participate in internal technical meetings
- Attend and observe third party/client meetings
- Undertake a short project, based on a project deliverable or activity and prepare a short report
Mechanical Engineering
- Read and understand the scope of the works, contract and works information for the project – to fully understand what the project and what we in Murphy are building
- Look at specifications and relevant standards to the project and the client
- Learn how to read site drawings and how to use them on site
- Work alongside the Site Engineer on the project, setting up engineering instruments and undertake setting out duties
- Carrying out surveying duties and creating Inspection and test Plans for the activities on the project
- Reading and understanding site documents – Risk Assessments/Method Statements
- Attend site progress meetings to understand the programme requirements of the project
- Familiarising and carrying out inspections on materials and equipment on site
- Prepare a short presentation summarising the above project and report to be presented to line manager / members of the team
- The review of technical specifications, reports and documents
- Working with an Engineer reviewing / producing / updating project drawings using CAD or REVIT software packages
- Reviewing specifications / data sheets in support of design and procurement activities
- Learn to integrate existing 2D drawings and technical documentation to extract relevant information to build the drawing
- Undertake simulated engineering activities under the supervision of Senior Engineers
- Learn to understand and read design calculations
- Attend and participate in internal technical meetings
- Attend and observe third party/client meetings
- Undertake a short project, based on a project deliverable or activity and prepare a short report
Electrical Engineering
- Read and understand the scope of the works, contract and works information for the project – to fully understand what the project and what we in Murphy are building
- Look at specifications and relevant standards to the project and the client
- Learn how to read site drawings and how to use them on site
- Work alongside the Site Engineer on the project, setting up engineering instruments and undertake setting out duties
- Carrying out surveying duties and creating Inspection and test Plans for the activities on the project
- Reading and understanding site documents – Risk Assessments/Method Statements
- Attend site progress meetings to understand the programme requirements of the project
- Familiarising and carrying out inspections on materials and equipment on site
- Prepare a short presentation summarising the above project and report to be presented to line manager / members of the team
- The review of technical specifications, reports and documents
- Working with an Engineer reviewing / producing / updating project drawings using CAD or REVIT software packages
Take a look at our Emerging Talent page and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram to hear from our current graduates about their experiences too.
What do we look for?
- Above all, we need people who will adopt our values and strive to live them:
- One Family, One Team, One Murphy
- Always Deliver
- Respect, Integrity & Accountability
- Never Harm
- Continually Improve
- Passion and dedication to engineering, with a willingness to build a long‑term career in construction
- Team player qualities
- Determination and ambition, strength of character and initiative
Entry requirements
- Need to be on an ICE/ IET/ IMechE‑accredited MEng or BEng degree course in an engineering discipline
- Must qualify for home / EU fees or have the right to live and work in the UK. Please note that unfortunately, we do not provide right to work sponsorship
- A‑level grades of ABB or higher (or BTEC equivalent or higher)
Additional requirements
Due to the nature of our work and location of our sites, we may require you to have a full clean driving licence.
Application Process
- Submit CV and Application
- Project Site Tour & Final Interview
It’s important to us that everybody has an equal chance to succeed, therefore if you'd like to discuss any reasonable adjustments for any part of the recruitment process, please feel free to get in touch at emergingtalent@murphygroup.co.uk.
Murphy is unable to employ anyone who does not have the legal right to live and work in the UK.
Apply now
Sponsored Student Placement Programme (Engineering) - UK employer: Thetrupgrade
Murphy is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity for first- and second-year engineering students to gain paid work experience on exciting construction projects across the UK. With a strong commitment to sustainability and a focus on employee development, Murphy provides a supportive work culture where you can thrive, secure a place on their graduate programme, and embark on a rewarding career in engineering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sponsored Student Placement Programme (Engineering) - UK
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's career services, attend engineering fairs, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. We can’t stress enough how important it is to make those connections; you never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and researching Murphy’s projects. We want to see your passion for engineering and how you can contribute to our team. Mock interviews with friends or mentors can really help boost your confidence!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills! Bring along a portfolio of your work or projects you've been involved in. We love seeing what you can do, whether it's CAD designs or engineering reports. It’s a great way to stand out from the crowd!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in showing your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it keeps you fresh in the interviewer's mind. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that placement!
We think you need these skills to ace Sponsored Student Placement Programme (Engineering) - UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the engineering field and highlights relevant skills and experiences. We want to see how your background aligns with our projects, so don’t hold back on showcasing your engineering prowess!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for engineering and why you’re excited about joining Murphy. We love seeing genuine enthusiasm, so let your personality come through.
Showcase Relevant Projects:If you've worked on any engineering projects, whether in class or as part of a hobby, make sure to mention them. We’re keen to see how you’ve applied your skills in real-world scenarios, so share those experiences with us!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the application process right there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Thetrupgrade
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Brush up on your civil and mechanical engineering fundamentals. Be ready to discuss key concepts, recent projects, or technologies relevant to the role. This shows your passion for the field and helps you connect with the interviewers.
✨Research Murphy's Projects
Dive into Murphy's recent projects and initiatives, especially those related to sustainability and innovation. Understanding their work will allow you to ask insightful questions and demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that assess your problem-solving skills and engineering knowledge. Practice explaining your thought process clearly and concisely, as this will showcase your analytical abilities and communication skills.
✨Showcase Teamwork and Initiative
Murphy values teamwork and a proactive attitude. Prepare examples from your studies or previous experiences where you worked effectively in a team or took the initiative on a project. This will highlight your fit with their company culture.
