Software Engineer Industrial Placement

Northrop Grumman Corporation; Cheltenham; On-site; GBP 25,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology company is offering an Industrial Placement Software Engineer position in Cheltenham. The role involves writing code, collaborating with teams, and supporting system design. Applicants should be studying relevant degrees and have skills in Java and Python. Benefits include flexible working, private healthcare, and career development opportunities. This is a great chance to drive innovation and contribute to impactful projects.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Private healthcare

Health cash plan

Holiday buy/sell scheme

Career development programmes

Performance bonuses

Qualifications

• Currently studying a relevant degree.
• Passionate about software development and computing.
• Understanding of the software development lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Writing clean, well-constructed, and unit-tested code.
• Completing tasks on the team’s Scrum board.
• Collaborating with Product Owners and stakeholders.
• Assisting with system testing under guidance.

Skills

Java

Python

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Currently studying a relevant degree (e.g. Software Engineering, Computer Science)

Job description

UK citizenship required. Relocation assistance: none. Clearance type: UK Security Check (SC). Travel: Yes, up to 10% of the time.

Requisition ID: R10214530

Location: Cheltenham

Citizenship Required: UK citizenship required

Clearance Type: SC (Security Check)

Hybrid / On Site: On Site

Travel Required: Yes, up to 10% of the time

Relocation Assistance: Not available

Positions Available: Multiple

Hours: Full-time (12-month placement starting September 2026)

Salary: £25,000

What’s your possible?

At Northrop Grumman UK, you are part of a team driving innovation where it matters most – solving tomorrow’s challenges and shaping the technology solutions of the future. It’s what we call Defining Possible.

This mindset goes beyond our customer solutions; it’s the foundation for your career development and the impact we have within the community.

This is more than just a placement; it’s a mission.

Join our Cyber & Intelligence business, where we combine cutting‑edge software development with decades of experience in defence and national security. You’ll be part of a team that delivers complex technology projects at scale and pace, supporting ambitious digital transformation programmes for our customers.

As an Industrial Placement Software Engineer, you’ll contribute to projects spanning cyber innovation, big data analytics, systems architecture, and R&D. You’ll be supported every step of the way by a dedicated mentor, buddy, project lead, and line manager – all committed to helping you grow.

What you’ll be doing:

• Writing clean, well‑constructed, and unit‑tested code.
• Completing tasks on the team’s Scrum board, including deep support (3rd line) of operational systems.
• Supporting the design of new features and explaining design decisions.
• Collaborating with Product Owners and stakeholders during design phases.
• Participating in sprint planning and continuous improvement activities.
• Assisting with system testing under the guidance of the test manager.

What we’re looking for:

• Currently studying a relevant degree (e.g. Software Engineering, Computer Science).
• Passionate about software development and computing, with experience in Java and Python.
• Understanding of the software development lifecycle and meeting deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.

If you don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. You might be exactly who we’re looking for – either for this role or another opportunity at Northrop Grumman UK.

Security Clearance

Due to the nature of our work, you must be a sole UK national to be eligible for this position. You must be able to gain and maintain SC level UK Government security clearance. Our recruitment team is here to support you through the process: [e-mail]

Benefits

• Flexible working options, including compressed fortnight (every other Friday off).
• Private healthcare.
• Health cash plan.
• Holiday buy/sell scheme.
• Career development programmes.
• Performance bonuses.

Why join us?

A Mission to Believe In – Every day we help build a more secure and connected world, from cyber defence to maritime navigation and NATO command systems.

A Place to Belong and Thrive – Every voice matters. Find community and belonging through our Employee Resource Groups and get involved with STEM volunteering events.

Your Career, Your Way – Discover possible with diverse roles, mentorship, and development opportunities tailored to your ambitions.

Ready to apply?

• Yes – Submit your application online.
• Possibly – Reach out to our team for more information: [e-mail]
• No – Explore other opportunities with us. We’re growing across the UK.

#IND-INT-26

Northrop Grumman is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce, and encourages individuals from all backgrounds and all abilities to apply and consider becoming a part of our diverse and inclusive workforce.