Mechanical Engineer Internship

About the Role

As an Undergraduate Mechanical Engineer Intern, you will join our Mechanical Engineering Team and support the Post Design Support Team (PDST), working on real products used in defence environments.

During your 12-month placement, you will gain practical experience using industry-standard engineering tools and processes, including SolidWorks for 3D modelling, drawing creation, and engineering analysis. You will also gain experience supporting the manufacturing and assembly teams, helping to ensure designs are practical, manufacturable, and meet performance requirements.

You will be involved in structured problem-solving activities and continuous improvement initiatives, helping to enhance product quality, reliability, and efficiency. Throughout the placement, you will work closely with experienced engineers and gain exposure to all elements of the engineering lifecycle, including design, analysis, testing, manufacturing, and engineering support.

This placement provides an excellent opportunity to develop technical knowledge, professional skills, and confidence while working on meaningful, real-world engineering challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting engineers in the design and development of mechanical components and systems
• Creating and updating CAD models, engineering drawings, and technical documentation
• Assisting manufacturing and assembly teams with engineering support activities
• Contributing to problem-solving and continuous improvement projects
• Applying and developing your understanding of engineering drawings and GD&T
• Working collaboratively with multi-disciplinary teams across engineering and production

What You'll Gain

• Hands-on experience with real-world defence engineering projects
• Proficiency in industry-standard CAD tools and engineering processes
• Exposure to the full engineering lifecycle, from design through to testing and support
• Practical understanding of manufacturing, assembly, and product optimisation
• Experience working in a professional engineering environment alongside experienced engineers
• Development of problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills
• Insight into continuous improvement initiatives and engineering best practices

Qualifications / Skills Required

Essential

• Currently studying Mechanical Engineering or a related degree
• Eligible to complete a 12-month industrial placement as part of your degree
• Passion for engineering and product development
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Motivated, organised, and eager to learn

Desirable

• Some experience using CAD software
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings
• Interest in manufacturing and engineering
• Strong analytical and problem-solving ability

Placement Details

• 12-month industrial placement
• Start date: Late July / Early August 2026 (depending on intake schedule)
• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience working on real defence engineering projects
• Mentoring and support from experienced engineers throughout the placement

Note: All candidates must meet the security vetting requirements relevant to the role. For reasons of national security, applicants must be British nationals. Dual nationals may be permitted in exceptional circumstances.