Calibration & Maintenance Engineer - Undergraduate Placement 2026

Mbda Systems; Bolton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defence organisation in Bolton is offering an undergraduate placement for a Calibration & Maintenance Engineer starting in September 2026. This role involves collaborating with engineering teams on various technologies and contributing to high manufacturing standards. Candidates should be working towards a relevant engineering or science degree. The company provides a competitive benefits package including bonuses, pension contributions, and annual leave.

Benefits

Company bonus based on performance

Pension contribution up to 14%

Opportunity for paid overtime

25 days of annual leave

Flexi Leave up to 15 additional days

Subsidised meals and free parking

Qualifications

• Studying for a degree in Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field.
• Strong interest in manufacturing processes and test equipment.
• Demonstrable problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering teams across technologies.
• Diagnose issues on test and process equipment.
• Lead activities and author technical documentation.
• Contribute to maintaining manufacturing standards.
• Work in various environments: lab, office, and shop floor.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Hands-on engineering approach

Interest in calibration and maintenance

Education

Working towards a degree in Engineering or Physics

Job description

Overview

Calibration & Maintenance Engineer - Undergraduate Placement 2026. Join to apply for the Calibration & Maintenance Engineer - Undergraduate Placement 2026 role at MBDA.

As a Calibration & Maintenance Engineer, you\\'ll collaborate with experienced engineers across the UK. Working on a range of technologies, including electronics, optics, and RF, your hands-on approach combined with office-based technical work will see you play a pivotal role in delivering outstanding manufacturing standards.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering teams across the UK on electronics, optics, RF and related technologies.
• Diagnose and fault find on Test & Process Equipment; analyse fault-related data.
• Assist and lead activities during placements, including authoring instructions and specifications, drafting and publishing drawing packs, and working on technical documentation.
• Work on shop floor equipment and in the lab, as well as in the office on drawings and documentation.
• Contribute to maintaining and improving manufacturing standards through hands-on support and technical analysis.

What We’re Looking For From You

• Working towards a degree in Engineering (incl. General, Mechanical, Manufacturing/Production, Aeronautical/Aerospace, Civil, Electrical/Electronic and Software) or Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Computing or Applied Science.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a hands-on approach to engineering challenges.
• Interest in calibration, maintenance, and test equipment in a manufacturing environment.

What We Can Offer

• 1 year placement: starting September 2026, applying university learning to real-world projects and technologies.
• Company bonus: based on company performance and varies year to year.
• Pension: maximum total (employer and employee) contribution of up to 14%.
• Overtime: opportunity for paid overtime.
• Annual Leave: 25 days plus option to purchase extra holiday.
• Flexi Leave: up to 15 additional days.
• Facilities: site facilities including subsidised meals, free car parking and more.

Security & Eligibility: British Citizen or a Dual UK national with British citizenship. After offer, candidates will undergo BPSS checks managed by the MBDA Personnel Security Team.

Important: CLOSING DATE FOR THIS ROLE IS MIDNIGHT ON 5TH JANUARY 2026 (SUBJECT TO APPLICATION VOLUMES).

MBDA is a leading defence organisation. We are proud of the role we play in supporting the Armed Forces who protect our nations. We partner with governments to work together towards a common goal, defending our freedom. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and offer support or adjustments throughout our recruitment process. Follow MBDA on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Glassdoor or visit our MBDA Careers website for more information.

Seniority level

• Entry level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Engineering, Manufacturing, and Production
• Industries: Defense and Space Manufacturing