Quality Internship; University Students

Quality Internship (University Students)
The Opportunity

Quality is the heartbeat of precision engineering.

Our Quality Internship offers university students the chance to learn quality assurance and inspection techniques in an AS9100-certified aerospace manufacturing environment. You’ll understand how we maintain exceptional standards for clients like GE Aviation and BAE Systems.

This is a fully paid 6-month programme with dedicated mentoring, real involvement in quality processes, and genuine potential for a full-time career.

£27,000 per annum (pro-rata 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.

• Learn inspection techniques and use precision measuring equipment
• Understand AS9100 and ISO 9001 quality management systems
• Support root cause analysis and corrective action processes
• Assist with First Article Inspection Reports (FAIRs) and documentation
• Learn to interpret technical drawings and specifications
• Participate in internal audits and quality reviews
• Gain exposure to APQP, PPAP, and FMEA processes
• Understand the importance of traceability in aerospace
• Phase 1 (Months 1-3):
  Induction, shadowing, guided tasks, building operational understanding
• Phase 1 Review:
  Assessment of progress and suitability for Phase 2
• Phase 2 (Months 4-6):
  Greater responsibility, supporting scheduling, full team integration
• Final Assessment:
  Review with potential for full‑time job offer

• Currently studying Engineering, Quality, Science, or related discipline
• Strong attention to detail and analytical mindset
• Interest in quality assurance and continuous improvement
• Methodical approach and ability to follow procedures
• Proficient with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel

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

Please note that candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.