Manufacturing Engineering Internship; University Students

Manufacturing Engineering Internship (University Students)
The Opportunity

Are you a university student looking for meaningful hands‑on engineering experience?

Our Manufacturing Engineering Internship offers the chance to work with cutting‑edge 5‑axis CNC technology, industry‑leading CAM software, and sophisticated automation systems at one of the UK’s most advanced precision engineering facilities.

This is a fully paid 6‑month programme with a dedicated mentor, real project work, and genuine potential for a full‑time career with us.

£27,000 per annum (pro‑rate for 6 months)

Monday 6th July 2026

R E Thompson is a leading precision aerospace engineering company with over 75 years of experience providing complete manufacturing solutions.

Operating from our advanced facilities in Hampshire, we are home to the UK’s most sophisticated automated 5‑axis machine shop. Our state‑of‑the‑art Flexible Manufacturing System enables 24/7 lights‑out production, and we hold AS9100, ISO
9001, ISO
14001, and ISO
45001 certifications.

We work with prestigious clients including GE Aviation, BAE Systems, and Ontic, delivering complex precision components for the aerospace, defence, automotive, and electronics industries.

• Gain hands‑on experience with advanced 5‑axis CNC machining processes
• Learn to develop efficient manufacturing methods for precision aerospace components
• Work with industry‑leading CAM software including hyperMILL
• Understand lean manufacturing principles and 5S practices
• Support manufacturing engineers on live customer projects
• Create and maintain manufacturing documentation
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives
• Experience the full product lifecycle from enquiry to delivery
• Phase 1 (Months 1‑3):
  Induction, shadowing, guided projects, building foundational skills
• Phase 1 Review:
  Assessment of progress and suitability for Phase 2
• Phase 2 (Months 4‑6):
  Greater responsibility, independent projects, full team integration
• Final Assessment:
  Review with potential for full‑time job offer

• Currently studying Engineering, Manufacturing, or related discipline at university
• Genuine interest in precision manufacturing and CNC technology
• Strong problem‑solving mindset and attention to detail
• Good communication skills and ability to work in a team
• Proactive attitude and eagerness to learn
• Basic understanding of technical drawings is advantageous

• Competitive salary of £27,000 per annum (pro‑rate)
• Dedicated mentor from day one
• Structured development programme
• Real project experience for your CV
• On‑site parking
• Potential pathway to full‑time employment