BAT
Mechanical, Material & Process Engineering Intern

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UNDERGRADUATE INTERN – Mechanical, Material & Process Engineering
British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for an UNDERGRADUATE INTERN – Mechanical, Material & Process Engineering in Southampton – Fixed-term (12 months)
We have an exciting opportunity for students who are currently undertaking a degree in Mechanical Engineering, (or a related subject) to join our Research & Development function, based in Southampton, on a 12-month undergraduate placement.
This placement is with our Mechanical, Material and Process team and will focus on inventing, designing, and developing the next generation of reduced harm products such as Vaping and Tobacco Heating devices as well as novel world-class technology developments. You will be part of a diverse Mechanical, Material and Process Engineering team within the New Categories R&D department that targets to deliver the best overall experience to our consumers. Working closely with other teams including the prototyping, testing and systems integration teams, you will be performing a wide range of tasks from 3D CAD and simulation to building prototypes and custom self-designed test equipment focused on innovation delivery.
This role will utilise knowledge of design, mechanical and/or scientific principles to work with a team of engineers of all levels in executing elements of product and technology development plans, whilst using your experience and expertise to help build out team capabilities and bring unique insights in all areas.
Your key responsibilities will include
- To have accountability for the delivery of assigned activities across a portfolio of projects and activities within the New Categories (Vapour, THP, new emerging technologies) product development portfolio.
- To be accountable for concept, CAD design work including modifications, jig and fixture design and mocks ups.
- To understand lab and testing technique or required prototyping capabilities to perform assigned tasks in the required time frames to contribute to the testing of new products and technology.
- To minimise risk through awareness of best practices and compliance using technical knowledge and broad scientific principles to ensure effective delivery of an appropriate given task.
- To assist and work closely with the more senior team with a focus on upskilling personal breadth and depth of technical knowledge in new categories product development.
- To accurately record and store data generated by assigned activities.
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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Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
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.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
What are we looking for?
- Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related subject.
- Motivation to build on theoretical knowledge and translate into a fast-paced engineering environment.
- Appreciation of mass manufacture and assembly.
- Engineering curiosity, innovative mindset and critical thinking.
- Collaborative attitude and ability to communicate with engineers and non-engineering audiences of all levels.
- Familiar with creating 3D CAD and Technical Drawings (Preferably using SolidWorks or Siemens NX).
- Strong Microsoft Office skills.
What you will receive
- Salary of £26,700 per annum
- Subsidised on-site gym membership
- Subsidised lunches
- 25 days annual leave
- Free on-site parking
- Participation in the Discretionary Company Bonus Scheme
- Participation in the Company Share Reward Scheme
- Participation in the Company Pension Scheme
- Private Healthcare Cover
- Eligibility for Company Flexible Benefits Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to online learning platforms and personalised growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
What we offer you?
- We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
- Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
- Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
- You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
- We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes


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Benefits
- Meal Voucher/ Canteen as per location
- Private Pension
- Life & Health Insurance
- Yearly bonus based on the ABS
- Family support policy
- Office perks
- Flexible policy as per agreed Second Level agreement.
WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.
Collaboration, inclusion and partnership underpin everything we do here at BAT. We are looking forward to enabling every individual to thrive, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, veteran status, perspectives and thinking styles. We know that embracing talent from all backgrounds is what makes us stronger and best prepared to meet our business goals.
We see the career breaks as opportunities not obstacles. Through The Global Returners program, we support professionals looking to restart their careers after an extended absence from the workforce (e.g. time out caring for family, parental leave, national service, sabbatical and/or starting an own venture).
Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.
If you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to help you perform at your best during the recruitment process, we are fully committed to support you by making appropriate arrangements for you to demonstrate your full potential.
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