Technology Intern - Automation

Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.

GKN Aerospace Global Technology Centre in Bristol is the company's flagship aerospace research and development hub, bringing together engineers, researchers and industry partners to develop next-generation aircraft technologies, advanced manufacturing processes and sustainable aviation solutions. It plays a key role in innovations such as lightweight composite structures, electrification, hydrogen-powered flight technologies and the decarbonisation of aerospace.

We are currently hiring for several years in industry internship opportunities at our Bristol GTC.

As a Year in Industry student, you'll have the opportunity to work on real projects that contribute to the future of aerospace. You'll gain hands-on experience, receive support from industry experts, and develop valuable skills that will accelerate your career. Our interns make a genuine impact from day one and are trusted to contribute to meaningful work across the business.

What You'll Be Doing

Placements in the GKN Automation Technology team are available for enthusiastic candidates seeking to develop knowledge and skill in creating new automated manufacturing processes for the next generation of aircraft. We work closely with production sites to improve the technology we use today and to develop automated technology for tomorrow.

As a team we have on-site access to industrial robots, control systems and advanced aerospace automated assembly cells that we use to enhance GKN’s ability to adopt future automated technologies.

Typically you’ll spend around 20-40% of your time hands on with our automated equipment.

Our internships will offer the opportunity to be involved with at least one of the following:

• Develop and test automated systems
• Work with PLC code
• Support with the installation of industrial automated technology into the GTC
• Work with industrial robots
• Create technical documentation
• Work with automation suppliers within our ecosystem

What You'll Bring

Knowledge and Education

• Must be studying towards an undergraduate degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical or Electronic engineering, Aerospace engineering or another related discipline.

Functional Behaviours & Capabilities

• Eager to learn new technical skillsets, both software and hardware.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a diverse team.
• Written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Attention to detail.

Desirable

• Hands on experience with automation projects
• Understanding of electronic systems
• Experience with writing code
• An understanding of aerospace manufacturing processes

We are looking for you to bring your best self, we believe we can add the most as an individual while being our true selves.

What we’re looking for above most other things is a genuine interest and passion for aerospace.

What We'll Offer

• A starting salary of £24,500, plus a starting bonus of £500 and generous benefits package.
• A welcoming year in industry intern community.
• Opportunities for international exposure and collaboration.
• Flexible working hours including the ability to finish at early on a Friday.
• Hybrid working.
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
• An industry leading pension scheme; 1.5 x employee contribution (max 12%).
• 8x salary life assurance scheme.
• Income protection.
• A collaborative, dynamic working environment.

Hiring Process

1. Apply online by completing our application form, including a few pre-screening questions. (closing date is Sunday 22nd November).
2. The successful candidates will take part in an online assessment if you meet the initial eligibility criteria. Once you've been sent the link you will have 2 weeks to complete the assessment.
3. Dependent on volume of applications we may ask you to complete a one-way video interview on VidCruiter.
4. Join us at our Assessment Centre at the Global Technology Centre in Bristol, to be held on 2nd or 3rd of February 2027.
5. Begin your journey with us in August/September 2027, as part of our Global Technology Centre Year in Industry Intern Programme.

Please note that GKN Aerospace reserves the right to change this process if we feel it will benefit our hiring process. This will be communicated to any relevant candidates as necessary.