BAT is evolving at pace into a global multi-category business. Our purpose is to create A Better Tomorrow™ by Building a Smokeless World.
To achieve our ambition, we are looking for colleagues who are ready to join us on this journey! Tomorrow can’t wait, let’s shape it together!
British American Tobacco UK has an exciting opportunity for an Undergraduate Intern – Mechanical, Material & Process Engineering in Southampton – Fixed-term (12 months)
We have an exciting opportunity for students who are currently undertaking a degree in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science (or a related subject) to join our Research & Development function, based in Southampton, on a 12-month undergraduate placement.
This placement is with our Mechanical, Material and Process team and will focus on inventing, designing, and developing the next generation of reduced harm products such as Vaping and Tobacco Heating devices as well as novel world-class technology developments. You will be part of a knowledge diverse Mechanical, Material and Process Engineering team within the New Categories R&D department that targets to deliver the best overall experience to our consumers. Working closely with other teams including the prototyping, testing and systems integration teams, you will be performing a wide range of tasks from 3D CAD and simulation to building prototypes and custom self-designed test equipment. Through our Material team, you will have the opportunity to exploring new ways to apply technical materials to our innovations, learning how to balance performance, cost and sustainability.
This role will utilise knowledge of design, mechanical and/or scientific principles to work with a team of engineers of all levels in executing elements of product and technology development plans, whilst using your experience and expertise to help build out team capabilities and bring unique insights in all areas.
A bit more about BAT and our undergraduate placement scheme
We make significant investments in Research and Development to deliver innovations that satisfy or anticipate consumer needs and generate growth for the business. We conduct cutting-edge research to evaluate our Potentially Reduced Risk Products (PRRPs) and apply the highest standards for product safety and quality. Successful applicants will be involved in our extensive scientific research program which spans a broad spectrum of scientific fields - including molecular biology, human biology, toxicology, chemistry, biomedical sciences, psychology, neuroscience, sensorial science, data science, computer science, product design, and engineering disciplines.
In the UK, we offer 12-months placement opportunities (starting on 1st September 2026) to undergraduate students looking to gain practical experience within a vibrant and innovative industrial setting. As part of the scheme, you will be partnered with a mentor, have regular reviews with your Line Manager and work on projects that impact the business.
BAT has an established placement programme, with a dedicated Placement Team, which provides training and development throughout the placement. This includes sessions for onboarding, presentation skills, critical thinking, scientific poster presentations and ‘speed networking’ with senior management. Successful applicants are provided with multiple opportunities to develop transferable skills in addition to gaining ‘hands on’ experience in a technical discipline.
As part of the scheme students get a chance to cultivate their independent thinking and problem-solving skills in addition to working in and contributing to a team. Cross functional/department working and participation in other research activities is also encouraged, where appropriate. Previous work experience in a practical ‘hands-on’ role would be useful but not essential.
This role is due to start in September 2026, and we will be shortlisting applications and carrying out video/ online interviews whilst the advert is live. We will look to make an offer to the successful candidate as close to the closing date as possible. However, the vetting and onboarding processes for successful candidates won’t begin until the role is opened in our system, which is likely to be later in 2026, so we will contact successful candidates again to commence these processes when the position opens.
We reserve the right to close this advert before the 31st of December if we have a high level of applications.
Your Key Responsibilities Will Include
- To have accountability for the delivery of assigned activities across a portfolio of projects and activities within the New Categories (Vapour, THP, new emerging technologies) product development portfolio.
- To be accountable for concept, CAD design work including modifications, jig and fixture design and mocks ups.
- To understand lab and testing technique or required prototyping capabilities to perform assigned tasks in the required time frames to contribute to the testing of new products and technology.
- To minimise risk through awareness of best practices and compliance using technical knowledge and broad scientific principles to ensure effective delivery of an appropriate given task.
- To assist and work closely with the more senior team with a focus on upskilling personal breadth and depth of technical knowledge in new categories product development.
- To accurately record and store data generated by assigned activities.
What are we looking for?
- Students working towards an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, or a closely related subject.
- Motivation to build on theoretical knowledge and translate into a fast-paced engineering environment.
- Appreciation of mass manufacture and assembly.
- Engineering curiosity, innovative mindset and critical thinking.
- Collaborative attitude and ability to communicate with engineers and non-engineering audiences of all levels.
- Familiar with creating 3D CAD and Technical Drawings (Preferably using SolidWorks or Siemens NX).
- Strong Microsoft Office skills.
What we offer you?
- We offer a market leading annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility)
- Our range of benefits varies by country and includes diverse health plans, initiatives for work-life balance, transportation support, and a flexible holiday plan with additional incentives
- Your journey with us isn't limited by boundaries; it's propelled by your aspirations. Join us at BAT and become a part of an environment that thrives on internal advancement, where your career progression isn't just a statement – it's a reality we're eager to build together. Seize the opportunity and own your development; your next chapter starts here.
- You'll have access to online learning platforms and personalized growth programs to nurture your leadership skills
- We prioritise continuous improvement within a transformative environment, preparing for ongoing changes
WHY JOIN BAT?
We’re one of the few companies named as a Global Top Employer by the Top Employers Institute – certified in offering excellent employee conditions.
At BAT, we champion collaboration, inclusion, and partnership as the bedrock of our values. We wish to foster an environment where every individual can thrive, irrespective of factors such as gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, gender reassignment, race, religion or belief, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, disability, age, skills, experience, education, socio-economic and professional background, as well as diverse perspectives and thinking styles. We recognise that our strength lies in embracing talent from all walks of life, empowering us to develop our culture of inclusivity and better achieve our business objectives.
We view career breaks not as obstacles but as opportunities and encourage everyone, without hesitation, to apply. Through our Global Returners program, we provide support to professionals seeking to re-enter the workforce after an extended absence, be it for family care, parental leave, national service, sabbatical, or starting their own venture.
Come bring your difference and see what is possible for you at BAT. Learn more about our culture and our award winning employee experience here.
We take pride in being a Disability Confident Employer. If you need any reasonable adjustments or accommodations to be made during the recruitment process to support you performing at your best, please inform the recruitment partner who will be in touch should your profile be selected for the role you applied for. We are wholeheartedly committed to optimising your prospects of success by making suitable arrangements so that you may showcase your full potential.
