About SailGP Technologies:
SailGP Technologies is the high performance design, engineering and manufacturing arm of SailGP, the global purpose‑led sail grand prix championship.
The Rolex SailGP Championship is the most exciting racing on water, where anything can happen in short, adrenaline‑fueled battles between national teams at iconic stadium destinations worldwide. Top athletes fly in identical high‑tech F50 catamarans faster than the wind, at speeds in excess of 100km/h (60mph). Founded in 2018, SailGP is one of the world’s fastest‑growing sports and entertainment properties, now in its sixth season.
SailGP’s constantly evolving design, composites engineering, software and data expertise is rooted in decades of experience at the forefront of cutting‑edge sail racing. Previously established and located in New Zealand since 2001, SailGP Technologies has relocated to Southampton, UK, with the new state‑of‑the‑art facility which opened in Spring 2024.
Job Summary:
As a Placement Student Engineer at SailGP Technologies, you will be embedded within the engineering team for a period of 12‑months. You will contribute to real engineering and production work from early in the placement, building a practical understanding of the F50 platform and how it is designed, built, and maintained. You will work across both mechanical and structural areas within a small, highly collaborative team, supporting a range of tasks and gradually taking on more responsibility as your confidence and capability grow.
Programme Context & Development
You will join a team currently focused on the production and maintenance of the F50 fleet, as well as delivering a structured safety upgrade programme. Alongside this, there is an evolving pipeline of future developments, including a youth/feeder league boat and next‑generation race marks and appendages. Initial work will focus on current F50 production delivery priorities, with opportunities to support development work as your experience grows. Working closely with experienced engineers, you will gain hands‑on experience across design, analysis, and production, translating academic knowledge into practical engineering.
Key Responsibilities:
* Support engineering and production activities to develop a detailed understanding of the F50 platform and its systems
* Contribute to the development and maintenance of the F50 digital twin through 3D modelling and 2D drawing updates
* Assist with CAD modelling and drawing updates under guidance from design engineers
* Support composite production activities, including ply book preparation, kit definition, and general build support
* Assist with prototype builds, testing activities, and validation work
* Support design changes and engineering updates across the existing fleet
* Carry out engineering calculations and basic analysis tasks appropriate to your level of experience
* Support material, component, and design investigations
* Maintain clear and accurate engineering documentation and drawing records
* Work across a variety of tasks and projects within a fast‑paced environment
Key Expectations:
* Get involved – take an active role in engineering work rather than waiting to be directed
* Be curious – ask questions, seek feedback, and take the opportunity to learn from those around you
* Be adaptable – work across a range of tasks rather than focusing on a single area
* Work collaboratively – engage with others in a small team where informal interaction is key
* Build confidence – develop practical skills and understanding throughout the placement
About you:
* Currently studying for a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a closely related discipline
* On track to achieve a 2:1 or higher
* Some exposure to CAD (any major package) and basic engineering analysis or FEA through academic work
* Interest in high‑performance engineering, marine systems, or composite structures
* Proactive, curious, and keen to get involved in practical engineering work
* Comfortable working in a small team environment where you will be expected to engage and contribute
SailGP Technologies is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace committed to building a team culture that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
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