This industrial placement offers the chance to join a world-leading consumer goods manufacturer and play a key role in the development, optimisation and delivery of high-performance production systems. You’ll gain hands-on experience in a fast-moving manufacturing environment where technical excellence, innovation and operational reliability are essential.
At the Reading Plant, engineers and technicians work together to turn ideas into high-quality finished products. From raw materials to packaging, the site focuses on efficiency, safety, sustainability and advanced engineering solutions used across globally recognised brands.
Key Criteria
* Studying engineering (mechanical, electrical, chemical, manufacturing, industrial or related discipline)
* Strong understanding of core engineering principles
* Evidence of problem-solving ability in academic or practical settings
* Leadership potential demonstrated through academic, work or extracurricular activities
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills
* Interest in manufacturing, production systems, process optimisation or operational efficiency
* Ability to work collaboratively in a technical, fast-paced environment
* Full right to work in the UK for the full duration of the placement
* Available for the placement period: 1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027
* Evidence of initiative, resilience and commitment to continuous learning
What to Expect
During this 12-month placement, you’ll work on live engineering projects, supporting the design, optimisation and continuous improvement of manufacturing systems. You’ll be involved in problem-solving, process optimisation, equipment reliability, sustainability initiatives, and productivity improvements.
You’ll receive a personalised learning plan, ongoing coaching and technical training to support your development. This role is ideal for students who want exposure to real manufacturing challenges and the opportunity to apply engineering theory in a practical environment.
What You Will Gain
* Real responsibility from day one: Lead and deliver engineering projects that have genuine business impact.
* Training & Development: Receive structured training and on-the-job coaching from experienced engineers and plant leaders.
* Competitive Benefits: £31,500 salary, double-matched pension, private health insurance, stock schemes and a flexible benefits fund.
* Future opportunities: High-performing interns may be offered a full-time role after graduation, with long-term career progression built into the organisation’s development model.
Eligibility
* Designed for students graduating in 2028 undertaking a placement year as part of their engineering degree.
* Applications also welcomed from students graduating in 2026 or 2027, or those who have already graduated, for shorter placements.
* Must hold full right to work in the UK for the entire placement (1 July 2026 – 30 June 2027).