Modelling & Simulation Placement (12 months)

Airbus; Stevenage; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace manufacturer in Stevenage is offering an internship in Software Engineering. The role is aimed at undergraduates and involves developing spacecraft simulators, learning software development practices, and engaging in innovative prototype projects. Candidates should have knowledge of C++, Python, and Linux, alongside strong communication skills. This is an excellent opportunity for students looking to enhance their experience in the Space Industry.

Benefits

Flexible working arrangements

Inclusive working environment

Qualifications

• Candidates must be undergraduates for the entire duration of the placement.
• Knowledge of high-level programming languages like C++ and Python is required.
• Familiarity with Linux is needed.

Responsibilities

• Develop prototypes with R&D Technical Lead.
• Understand DevOPS concepts and tooling.
• Investigate third-party tool integration for simulators.
• Contribute to spacecraft simulator development.
• Learn software development practices in the Space Industry.

Skills

C++

Python

Linux

Written Communication

Verbal Communication

Education

Engineering or Science degree

Job description

Overview

Start date: 20 July 2026

Location: Stevenage

Duration: 12 months

Employment Type: Internship

Experience Level: Student

Job Family: Software Engineering

About us

Join the Simulation and Modelling team within the Space Systems division of Airbus Defence and Space in Stevenage. Our team designs and develops the simulators and test benches used for satellite functional verification and spacecraft assembly and testing. We support a diverse range of applications, covering Telecommunications, Earth Observation, & Science missions. This includes projects such as ARIEL, that will contribute to the discovery and characterization of exoplanets and VIGIL which is a Space weather mission developed with the European Space Agency.

Our simulators are designed to mimic the functional behaviour of a spacecraft, allowing us to validate key elements of the complete system. This work involves a variety of software programming languages and tools, with our main development language being C++ on a Linux platform. Ideally, you will have a basic understanding of these key skills, which are widely transferable and will be further developed during your placement.

What you will be doing

Throughout your placement, you will learn what it takes to write and maintain high quality, reliable software all the way from requirements definition through to software design, coding and test. You will learn software development methods and practices that will enable you to produce high quality solutions.

During this placement, we will offer you a well-rounded experience that may include:

• Working closely with our R&D Technical Lead to develop prototypes of various technology demonstrators;
• Gain an understanding of DevOPS concepts and tooling and how they can be applied to Software as a Service;
• Investigate the use of third-party tools that can be integrated into our simulators to improve the simulator user experience;
• Contribute to the development of our spacecraft simulators;
• Gain an understanding of software development within the Space Industry.

While the development of prototypes requires the use of a varied set of software programming languages and tools, the challenges lie in the design and concepts where innovation and an ability to think creatively and critically will be a strong advantage.

Requirements

Our placements are open to Undergraduates only. Therefore it is mandatory for candidates to be an undergraduate for the whole duration of the placement. Please inform your graduation date on your application.

*Your application should include a CV along with a Cover Letter outlining your motivation and suitability for the role.*

Successful candidates should be able to demonstrate some of the following:

• Studying towards an Engineering or Science degree;
• Knowledge of a high-level programming language ideally (C++ and Python);
• Knowledge of Linux;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex topics in easy-to-understand terms.

SECURITY CLEARANCE: You will be subject to a BPSS (Baseline Personnel Security Standard) check. You may also need to gain UK SC-level Security Clearance or Export Control, depending on the role.

Contact

Please let us know if you need us to make any adjustments to allow you to access and participate fully in the recruitment process. If you wish to discuss this further please contact us. Any information disclosed will be treated in the strictest confidence.

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This job requires an awareness of any potential compliance risks and a commitment to act with integrity, as the foundation for the Company\'s success, reputation and sustainable growth.

Company

AIRBUS Defence and Space Limited

Employment Type: Internship

Experience Level: Student

Job Family: Software Engineering

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Airbus is committed to achieving workforce diversity and creating an inclusive working environment. We welcome all applications irrespective of social and cultural background, age, gender, disability, sexual orientation or religious belief.

Airbus is, and always has been, committed to equal opportunities for all. As such, we will never ask for any type of monetary exchange in the frame of a recruitment process. Any impersonation of Airbus to do so should be reported to [e-mail].

At Airbus, we support you to work, connect and collaborate more easily and flexibly. Wherever possible, we foster flexible working arrangements to stimulate innovative thinking.