Student Engineer - Summer 2027 Placement

Job Introduction

Student Engineer – Summer Placements

At BEAR Scotland, we manage, maintain and improve over 1,962km of Scotland’s trunk road network and more than 2,000 bridges and structures across some of the country’s most iconic and challenging landscapes. Every year, we deliver multi-million-pound programmes of maintenance, renewal and improvement works that keep Scotland connected and moving safely.

The South-East Trunk Road Unit spans 506km through some of the busiest sections of the country, from central Scotland through the Scottish Borders. Trunk roads in the South East range from the major multi-lane motorways across the central belt to roads through villages in the borders.

The South-East Unit includes 870 bridges and structures including the iconic Queensferry Crossing and Forth Road Bridge, as well as other major bridges such as the Kincardine Bridge and Clackmannanshire Bridge.

We’re looking for enthusiastic and ambitious students in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related discipline to join our South East team.

As a Student Engineer / Summer Placement, you'll work alongside experienced engineers across a variety of teams, gaining valuable exposure to bridge and highway maintenance, asset management, project delivery and construction activities. Through hands-on experience, mentoring, and practical training, you'll develop key technical and professional skills while gaining insight into a career in transport infrastructure engineering.

For high-performing students, this placement could provide a pathway to future opportunities with BEAR Scotland, including progression into our Graduate Engineer Programme upon completion of your studies.

Roles & Responsibilities

• Supporting engineers with the inspection, maintenance, and improvement of bridges, structures, and trunk roads.
• Assisting with site visits, surveys, and condition inspections.
• Supporting the delivery of engineering projects from planning through to construction.
• Helping prepare technical reports, drawings, specifications, and project documentation.
• Assisting with project planning, programme management, and cost control activities.
• Working collaboratively with engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders.
• Learning about health, safety, and environmental requirements within a live operational environment.
• Gaining practical experience across a variety of disciplines within a major infrastructure business.

About You

• Currently studying towards a degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Interested in highways, bridges, structures, and transport infrastructure.
• Strong communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proactive, enthusiastic, and keen to learn from experienced professionals.
• Able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Competent in Microsoft Office applications.
• A full UK driving licence would be advantageous.

Why Join BEAR?

At BEAR, you’ll be part of a team responsible for maintaining and improving some of Scotland’s most important infrastructure. We are committed to developing our people and providing graduates with the experience, support and opportunities needed to build a rewarding long-term career.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary + benefits package
• Structured Graduate Development Programme
• Mentoring from experienced Chartered Engineers
• Support towards professional accreditation and chartership
• Generous annual leave entitlement with the ability to purchase additional annual leave
• Pension scheme (up to 6% employer contribution)
• Flexible benefits, including:
• CSR Days
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Employee Assistance Programme

We’re proud to be an equal opportunities employer, committed to fairness, inclusion, and diversity across our business.

Join us and be part of a company that supports your development, values your contribution, and inspires you to do your best work.