Sub Assembly Product & Process Optimisation - Placement Year

BMW Group; Swindon; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive manufacturer in Swindon is offering a 13-month internship focused on Sub-Assembly Product & Process Optimisation. Interns will support manufacturing transitions, utilize complex data for performance improvements, and contribute to long-term process changes. Ideal candidates are pursuing an engineering degree and have strong IT skills. Competitive salary and benefits included.

Benefits

Competitive annual salary

26 days holiday per annum

Attractive pension scheme

Qualifications

• Studying towards a bachelor's degree and on track to achieve at least a 2:2.
• Prior work experience is desirable but not essential.
• Self-motivated and able to handle responsibility while working independently.

Responsibilities

• Support the transition from pre-series to series manufacturing of Mini parts.
• Use data from multiple sources to guide team performance improvements.
• Coordinate meetings and present findings to team members.

Skills

Strong IT skills

Excellent communication skills

Excellent problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

PowerBI

Excel

Job description

THE BEST INTERNSHIP IN THEORY - AND IN PRACTICE.

SHARE YOUR PASSION.

We believe in creating an environment where our interns really can learn by doing and where they are given their own areas of responsibility right from the start of their time with us. That’s why our experts will treat you as part of the team from day one, encourage you to bring your own ideas to the table – and give you the opportunity to really show what you can do.

BMW Plant Swindon is an integral part of The BMW Group’s production triangle. The majority of body components for the MINI – including all the skin panels and closure assemblies – originate at BMW Group Plant Swindon. We’re proud of our achievements, some of which include:

• We have approximately 200 panel parts produced from our 8 automated press line facilities. 80% supply to Plant Oxford, 20% to BMW network. 30 additional parts are also produced in the sub-assembly technology to supply Oxford.
• Our zero waste to landfill philosophy; none of the materials we use are sent to landfill.
• The opportunity to get involved with our continued to support to our house charity with a variety of fundraising events throughout the year.

MINI Plant Swindon - Sub Assembly Product & Process Optimisation - 13-Month Placement (July 2026)

Sub-Assembly is a key part of the MINI production system. Taking pressed panels from the Swindon Press Shop and parts brought in from external suppliers, we join parts together using laser welding, resistance welding, adhesive sealer, and many other advanced manufacturing techniques. 100+ associates work alongside over 250 robots and now 14 Auto-Guided Vehicles to build 39 unique Assemblies which are shipped to MINI Plant Oxford as well as the wider BMW network (Europe, China, etc). Precision engineering and excellent process and quality control, enabled by an experienced and enthusiastic team, make Sub-Assembly an exciting opportunity for someone looking to learn, contribute, and develop in a high-performance team.

What awaits you?

• Supporting the transition from pre-series to series manufacturing of the next generation of Mini hang-on parts in the Sub-Assembly production system.
• Using and analysing complex data from multiple sources to steer the team toward valuable performance improvements.
• Observing the process and learning to use robust problem-solving techniques, leading to sustainable success.
• Coordinating meetings and presenting findings to relevant colleagues at all levels of the business.
• Helping to make long-term process changes to support a controlled build standard, considering time, quality, and cost.

What should you bring along?

• Studying towards a bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Automotive etc.), Manufacturing, IT, or a related field and on track to achieve at least a 2:2.
• Prior work experience is desirable but not essential.
• Strong IT skills, with experience using PowerBI, Excel or similar software to present data being especially valuable.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Self-motivated and able to handle responsibility whilst working independently, following findings and testing theories.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• A full UK driver’s licence would be preferred, coupled with a willingness to travel to other Plants and potentially to suppliers.

What can you look forward to?

• Great Pay – A competitive annual salary of £24,650, 26 days holiday per annum (pro rata to your contract) and an attractive pension scheme.
• Rewarding Work-Life Balance – Contracted working hours are 36 hours a week, with a half day on a Friday, helping you develop a fulfilling work-life balance.
• Exciting Additional Benefits – You will have the opportunity to enjoy other employee benefits, a subsidised on-site restaurant and access to our Advantages scheme which gives you a range of offers and discounts.

What do you need to do now?

If you apply, the next stages of the recruiting process include online testing, an in-person assessment centre and then a virtual interview with the hiring manager.

Please note:

To be eligible for this position, you must be returning to your studies, for a minimum of 6 months, after completion of this placement. You must be able to provide proof of your legal right to work in the UK.

We are committed to promoting equal opportunities in employment and job applicants will receive equal treatment regardless of disability, age, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, gender, sex or sexual orientation.

At the BMW Group, we place great importance on equal treatment and equal opportunities. Our recruiting decisions are based on the personality, experience, and skills of the applicants.

Closing date for applications: Sunday 30th November 2025

Any further questions? Email us on [e-mail]