Introduction

Saab UK is part of Scandinavia’s largest defence company, bringing together the best of Swedish and British innovation. Saab offers world-leading solutions and services in defence, aviation, space, and civil security to keep people and society safe. Our UK presence has been growing at pace, meaning we can offer a wide range of opportunities for personal fulfilment and career growth. We currently employ over 600 people across eight sites in the UK, and our specialisations include software engineering, underwater robotics, radars, AI, and armed forces training.

What you will be part of

Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations.

The Role:

We are seeking a motivated engineering student to join our BlueBear Business Unit for a 3-months placement based on our Oakley site in Bedfordshire. By joining the Saab UK Placement programme, you will have the opportunity to apply what you have learnt in your studies to real world situations. There will be chances to have hands on practical experience with our unique products, while being supported by your manager, mentors and peers. Gain valuable experience by working on a structured 12-week programme with exposure to our industry, technologies and business providing opportunities to achieve your learning outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

A placement student at BlueBear, your primary responsibility will be to apply your academic studies to real-world situations through a structured 12-week program. You will gain hands-on experience with Saab's products under the guidance of specialized mentors. Your day-to-day responsibilities and learning objectives will include:

• Design & Modelling: Completing design of parts and assemblies on a PDM software.
• Mechanical & Electrical Assembly: Assisting with vehicle assembly in the mechanical workshop, alongside practical work in the ELab including soldering, PCB assembly, connector termination, and harness design & manufacture.
• Engineering Principles: Learning and applying concepts such as 3D printing, DFA/DFM, DFMEA, Materials Testing, GD&T, Limits & Fits (ISO 286-2), and Weld symbols (BS EN 22553 / ISO 4063).
• Business & Systems Processes: Gaining exposure to AI for business, Requirements & Change Control Management (V&V), EBoM, MBoM, ERP, MRP, and purchasing orders.
• Health & Safety: Undertaking inductions and learning how to conduct risk assessments.
• Project Delivery: Integrating into the mechanical and vehicle integration space to directly support current project delivery.

Qualifications and Skills

Required skills:

• Basic understanding of engineering principles and a strong willingness to learn new software (like Solidworks).
• Ability to commit to the working hours of 08:30 - 17:00 hrs (37.5 hrs per week).
• Basic hands-on workshop experience (e.g., basic soldering or mechanical assembly).
• An interest in the defence, aviation, or robotics sectors.

Desirable skills:

• Prior exposure to CAD software or 3D printing.
• Basic understanding of engineering principles and a strong willingness to learn new software (like Solidworks).

By submitting an application to Saab UK you consent to undertaking workforce screening activities that may include but are not limited to: Baseline Personnel Security checks, National Security Vetting, reference checks, verification of working rights and in all circumstances preferred candidates will be placed through a security interview. At Saab, you'll be empowered to make a real difference. Join colleagues worldwide who share one purpose – keeping people and society safe through innovative defence and security solutions.

What makes that difference possible?

You. We're a global leader in air, land and naval defence, civil security and commercial aeronautics, with approximately 28,000 employees across all continents. Our transformative approach combines deep expertise with continuous innovation – investing one-fifth of our earnings in research and development to solve tomorrow's challenges today. But technology alone doesn't create safety. Your perspective, your skills, your contribution – that's what transforms possibility into reality. Here, diversity strengthens everything we do. You'll find unlimited opportunities to advance your career whilst maintaining balance in your life beyond work. We're committed to creating an inclusive environment where every person can fully focus on what matters. Saab is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer – all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered without regard to race, colour, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran or disability status.