Trainee Project Engineer

ASHTEAD TECHNOLOGY; Westhill; On-site; GBP 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship and training

Hands-on project exposure

Job summary

Ashtead Technology invites applications for a Trainee Project Engineer to join the Survey and Robotics team in Westhill. This junior role offers hands-on experience across software development, automation tools, AI-driven solutions and workshop-improvement projects, with mentorship from seasoned engineers.

The position focuses on developing design, build, test and deployment skills for both digital and physical solutions, enhancing workshop and business processes.

Qualifications

• HNC/HND qualification (or currently studying towards one) in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Basic knowledge of programming languages such as Python, C#, JavaScript, VBA or similar.
• An understanding of software applications, databases, networking and operating systems.
• A genuine interest in engineering, automation and emerging technologies, including AI.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a curious mindset with a desire to learn and develop.
• Enthusiasm, initiative and a hands‑on approach to tackling challenges.

Responsibilities

• Supporting the design, development and implementation of innovative tools and systems that improve operational and workshop efficiency.
• Assisting with software development, automation projects and emerging AI-based solutions.
• Identifying opportunities to reduce manual processes and introduce smarter ways of working.
• Working alongside Project Engineers to turn ideas into practical, real‑world solutions and helping improve workshop equipment, digital systems and business processes.
• Supporting the testing, troubleshooting and deployment of new technologies and systems.
• Creating and maintaining technical documentation, user guides and operating procedures.
• Collaborating with technical, operational and workshop teams to understand challenges and deliver improvements.

Skills

Python

C#

JavaScript

VBA

Education

HNC/HND in Software Engineering

Job description

We're looking for a Trainee Project Engineer to join our Survey and Robotics team in Westhill. This is an exciting opportunity for someone at the start of their career who is looking for engaging, hands‑on experience working on software development, automation tools, AI-driven solutions and workshop improvement projects. You'll work alongside experienced engineers and operational teams to develop technical, problem-solving, and project delivery skills through involvement in the design, build, testing, and deployment of both digital and physical solutions that enhance workshop and business processes.

With a planned start date in January 2027, this is a fantastic opportunity to secure your next role and look ahead to an exciting new challenge.

What you'll be doing:

• Supporting the design, development and implementation of innovative tools and systems that improve operational and workshop efficiency.
• Assisting with software development, automation projects and emerging AI-based solutions.
• Identifying opportunities to reduce manual processes and introduce smarter ways of working.
• Working alongside Project Engineers to turn ideas into practical, real‑world solutions and helping improve workshop equipment, digital systems and business processes.
• Supporting the testing, troubleshooting and deployment of new technologies and systems.
• Creating and maintaining technical documentation, user guides and operating procedures.
• Collaborating with technical, operational and workshop teams to understand challenges and deliver improvements.

What experience you'll bring:

• HNC/HND qualification (or currently studying towards one) in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electronic Engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Basic knowledge of programming languages such as Python, C#, JavaScript, VBA or similar.
• An understanding of software applications, databases, networking and operating systems.
• A genuine interest in engineering, automation and emerging technologies, including AI.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a curious mindset with a desire to learn and develop.
• Enthusiasm, initiative and a hands‑on approach to tackling challenges.

Who we are:

Established in 1985, Ashtead Technology is a leading provider of subsea equipment rental solutions, advanced underwater technologies, and support services to the global offshore energy sector. With over 40 years of experience, we specialise in enabling customers to understand the subsea environment and manage offshore energy production infrastructure, including offshore wind farms and oil and gas platforms. Our offering spans the entire lifecycle of these infrastructures, with over 85% of our equipment fungible across both markets.

Headquartered in the UK, Ashtead Technology operates globally with over 600 staff and more than 30,000 assets, making us one of the largest independent rental fleets in the industry. We continue to invest in equipment and have a strong in‑house engineering capability to provide the most technologically advanced solutions. Our growth, driven by strategic acquisitions and organic expansion, culminated in a successful IPO in 2021, with shares now trading on the Main Market of the London Stock Exchange.

What we’ll offer:

• A dynamic & collaborative team environment where your contributions are valued, and your ideas welcomed.
• A positive and inclusive company culture that fosters collaboration, creativity, and mutual respect among team members.

• Practical, real‑world experience allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge gained during your HNC/HND, to actual work solutions
• The opportunity to develop and enhance your skills in the Survey & Robotics field, building a strong foundation for future career growth
• Working closely with professionals who will provide a supportive learning environment where you can ask questions, seek guidance, mentorship and receive feedback.