AWE
work experience

Applied Scientist & Theoretical Scientist (within Physics) Placement Programme

Job description

Start an extraordinary career at AWE; grow your skills, learn from industry experts and become part of a community at one of the most unique companies in the UK.

About the Year in Industry

This position is created for university students undertaking a 12-month placement, who will join a small team of scientists within our physics function.

You will apply your skills and knowledge to support the full lifecycle of warhead components and technologies. We have a diverse range of teams who work to support the delivery of our mission including Image Analysis, Explosive Modelling, Applied Computer Science, Mathematical Assessment to name just a few.

During the programme, you’ll focus mainly on one or two projects, gaining a deeper insight into the work that is done. You’ll be supported by a line manager and a mentor, who will help you to navigate your time with us and support you in developing the skills to build your career within the defence industry.

Your on-programme learning will combine a corporate induction to help you find your feet, on-job training, and some classroom-based or online learning, depending on your role.

Alongside this, your off-programme learning will include being part in an undergraduate group project team focusing on a business deliverable. We will give you every opportunity to network with other undergraduates, as well as the graduate community, so you can start building your business contacts at AWE.

At the end of the programme, you’ll have increased your knowledge and understanding within your subject area – and gained additional skills to help you in your future career.

The Benefits

  • The opportunity to learn from subject matter experts and to develop skills that are applicable across many industries.
  • A salary of £22,250
  • A market leading contributory pension scheme. We will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your own contribution.
  • Every second Friday off. We do this by working a 41-hour week followed by a 33-hour week.
  • 270 hours annual leave a year that includes an allowance for bank holidays.
  • Access to the employee discounts portal – everyday savings on retail, hospitality and leisure.

Starting date

Undergraduate Placement Induction start date will be August 2025, so please avoid taking leave during this period if you are successful. This role is offered on a 12-month contract.

What we are looking for

  • Candidates will be studying for a degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Mathematics, Data Science, or Computer Science.
  • Growth Mindset; You’re full of grit and determination. Clear where you are going and how you will get there.
  • Curious; you’re a person who loves to think outside the box. (You’re a person who loves to take the box apart!).
  • Innovative; you’re open to learning about new technologies and ground-breaking ideas.
  • Resilience; you’re an advocate of ‘speaking up’ for yourself and others openly and constructively.
  • Team Worker; you’re dependable and reliable. You’re interested in collaborating with and supporting others.
  • Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role.
  • Please note that you must be a British National to apply for a role with us.

Accepted degree subjects

Any

Additional job details

Location
Aldermaston
Salary
£22,250

Contract, dates and working times
Fixed term

Full-time

How to apply

If eligible you will be invited to complete online testing against various numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning tests, you will be given access to practice ahead of completing them.

Those successful at testing will be invited to our virtual assessment centres running throughout the period 14 October to 14 December 2024, and early into January 2025.

We recruit on a rolling basis which means as soon as our positions have been filled, the scheme will close to new applications. So, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out!

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants.

Any inclusion information you provide us will be used to encourage and support you through the application process and will be held only for this purpose in accordance with GDPR.

Contact us

If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team

Click Apply to start your application now. This job will be available on Prospects until 30 November 2024

Don't forget to mention Prospects to employers when you contact them.

Closing date:  30 November 2024

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