Undergraduate Manufacturing Engineer

Job Advertisement: Undergraduate Electronic Systems Manufacturing Engineer

Agency Partner: Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency

Client: BAE Systems

Location: Rochester, Kent, United Kingdom (On-site: Expected 5 days per week)

Position Type: 12-Month Undergraduate Industrial Placement

Salary: £25,900 per annum

Start Date: 21st June 2027

Placement End Date: 16th June 2028

About the Opportunity

Supportive Bridge Staffing Agency is proud to partner with BAE Systems—a global leader in defence, aerospace, and security—to source an enthusiastic and driven Undergraduate Electronic Systems Manufacturing Engineer for a 12-month placement in Rochester.

As part of the world-leading Electronic Systems team with a 70-year heritage of excellence, you will support the manufacturing of cutting-edge controls and display solutions for commercial and military platforms, including the Striker II Helmet, active control sticks, and flight control computers. This placement offers an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on industrial experience and build core manufacturing skills across product lifecycles.

Role Overview

As an Undergraduate Manufacturing Engineer, you will play a pivotal role supporting manufacturing systems and processes to ensure product quality is met within strict schedule and budget targets. Working closely with stakeholders across Manufacturing and Engineering, you will help optimize shop-floor layouts, resolve day-to-day manufacturing challenges, and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Core Duties & Responsibilities

• Documentation & Training: Support the production of vital departmental documentation, including planning documents and training materials.

• Manufacturing Cell Support: Provide day-to-day assistance to manufacturing cells, focusing on continuous improvement of cell layouts and processes while collaborating with technicians, machine shops, and new product introduction teams.

• Problem Solving: Utilize structured problem-solving techniques to swiftly overcome manufacturing issues.

• Quality First Mindset: Apply quality tools and principles (such as auditing, non-conformance management, and concessions) to maintain top-tier standards.

• Tooling & Additive Manufacturing: Develop ad-hoc skills around tooling design, CAD software (AutoCAD, CREO), and additive manufacturing.

• Facility Management: Directly run and manage the on-site 3D print facility.

Key Requirements & Qualifications

• Academic Background: Must be on track to obtain a 2:2 Bachelor’s degree or a pass at Master’s level in one of the following subjects: Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Automotive Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics, or Product Design.

• Working Arrangement: Full-time on-site attendance in Rochester (5 days per week).

• Security Clearance: All applicants must achieve, as a minimum, the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS). Note: Due to security and export control restrictions, candidates must meet national identity, birthplace, and residency criteria.

Why Join BAE Systems?

• Meaningful Impact: Build a career with purpose, contributing to advanced technology-led solutions that protect what matters most.

• Professional Growth: Access first-class training, coaching, and mentoring programs designed to stretch your potential and foster lifelong learning.

• Wellbeing & Rewards: Enjoy a competitive salary of £25,900 alongside flexible benefits tailored to support your financial and personal wellbeing.

• Inclusive Culture: Thrive in an environment that champions diversity, sustainable working practices, and a strong sense of shared purpose.