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Industrial Placement – Student Mechanical Engineer

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Industrial Placement – Student Mechanical Engineer
About PerkinElmer
At PerkinElmer, we design, manufacture and deliver advanced technology solutions which address the world's most critical human and environmental health and safety concerns. Our Environmental Health business develops analytical instrumentation and support services, all to protect the quality and sustainability of our environment. PerkinElmer transforms information into actions that improve our safety today and our world tomorrow.
In the Spectroscopy Research team at High Wycombe, we investigate emerging technologies in infrared, near-infrared and UV spectroscopy. We actively lead the development of next-generation instruments for materials characterization and offer expert technical support from cradle to grave.
About The Student Mechanical Engineer Role
This is an opportunity to play a full part in the design and development of the mechanical aspects on new, state-of-the-art prototype instruments. You would be developing designs for manufacture, building prototypes, and playing a role in verification and troubleshooting. The mechanical aspects of the products involve a mix of precision metal and plastic parts, castings, electro-mechanical sub-systems, as well as optical components. You will be working in a small team that mixes highly skilled and experienced scientists and engineers with fellow students.
Reasons to use Rodeo
I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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Role and Responsibilities
As a Student Mechanical Engineer, You Will Assist In Research And Development Projects Conducted Within The Department. These Projects May Relate To The Development And Modification Of Functional Prototype Infrared Spectroscopy Instruments. You Will Also Participate In Root Cause Investigations Into Manufacturing Issues And Play a Part In Problem Resolution. The Work Is Likely To Include
- Participating in idea generation, concept development, and design analysis.
- 3D modelling and drawings of precision components and assemblies using SolidWorks.
- Tolerance analysis
- Sourcing parts either externally or by using our 3D printers
- Assembling and testing prototypes in the laboratory, working with the team to integrate electronics, hardware and software.
- Performance and dimensional verification of designs using a variety of tools including CMM and optical techniques
- Publication of manufacturing information in our Product Data Management system
- Root cause analysis and resolution of manufacturing issues.
- Documenting designs and evaluating and reporting their performance.
- Completing project tasks within agreed timescales
- Organising and conducting your own daily/weekly work schedule
- Participating in teams and meetings


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Training on the use of relevant laboratory equipment and standard methods will be given and support given in the interpretation of results.
Education and Experience
To qualify, you must have completed a minimum of 2 years of an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering (or a related subject) at the start of the placement. You will be working towards achieving a 2:1 or above and looking to complete a 12 month placement as part of your degree.
To Be Successful You Will Need
- Good numerical and analytical skills
- Experience using parametric 3D modelling software (preferably SolidWorks)
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work in a team and also to work independently where needed
- Good problem solving and reasoning skills
- Ability to learn and retain new skills
PerkinElmer at High Wycombe has a history of taking students for placement years and many have gone on to take permanent roles in the organisation. Students are given stimulating and interesting projects to work on that are of genuine value to the business.
Please apply by submitting a CV and a covering letter.
Interviews will be carried out as suitable CVs are received.
We regret we will not consider candidates who have already graduated for this role.
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