Operational Technology Intern

Life. Unlimited. At Smith+Nephew we design and manufacture technology that takes the limits off living. 

Are you looking to kick start your career at the intersection of manufacturing, technology, digital innovation, and Quality Engineering? This internship offers hands-on experience in a live operational environment, where you will contribute to real manufacturing transformation projects while learning from experts across Operations, IT, Digital, and Quality Engineering.

What will you be doing? 

This is a year in industry placement running from Sept 2026 for one year, designed for students who want to gain meaningful, hands on experience in a live manufacturing environment. Over the course of your placement, you will be fully embedded within our Operational Technology and manufacturing teams, working on real projects that support the digital transformation of our Hull and Melton sites. 

From day one, you will be learning how modern manufacturing operations work, spending time on the factory floor to understand processes, challenges and opportunities first hand. You will support the delivery of our digitisation and Operational Technology programme, contributing to Manufacturing 4.0 initiatives such as Industrial Internet of Things, production monitoring and data driven improvement. 

As your confidence grows, you will begin building and supporting digital applications using low code tools such as Tulip and Power BI, helping to create interactive work instructions, capture operational data and improve visibility of performance. You will work closely with engineers, operations teams, IT, data analytics and operational excellence colleagues, giving you a broad view of how different functions collaborate to deliver safe, efficient and high quality manufacturing. 

Throughout the year, you will be supported with structured learning, on the job training and mentoring, giving you the opportunity to apply your academic knowledge in a practical setting while developing valuable technical and professional skills that will set you up for your future career. 

What will you need to be successful? 

Success in this role comes from curiosity, collaboration and a desire to learn in a fast paced manufacturing environment. To thrive, you will bring: 

• Completion of at least two years of a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science or a related discipline and the ability to consider a year in industry placement from Sept 2026. We are also happy to consider candidates who have completed degree level studies in 2026, and are seeking a post-graduate role.  

• An interest in manufacturing systems, digital technology and data driven improvement. 

• The ability to communicate clearly and work effectively with a range of stakeholders 

• A proactive mindset and willingness to learn new tools and ways of working 

You. Unlimited. 
We believe in creating the greatest good for society. Our Strongest investments are in our people and patients we serve. 
Inclusion and Belonging: Committed to Welcoming, Celebrating and Thriving on Inclusion and Belonging, Learn more about our Employee Inclusion Groups on our website (www.smith-nephew.com) 
Your Future: Pension Schemes, Save As You Earn share options. 
Work/Life Balance: Flexible Vacation and Time Off, Paid Holidays and Paid Volunteering Hours, so we can give back to our communities! 
Your Wellbeing: Private Health and Dental plans, Healthcare Cash Plans, Income Protection, Life Assurance and much more. 
Flexibility: Hybrid Working Model (For most professional roles). 
Training: Hands-On, Team-Customised, Mentorship. 
Extra Perks: Discounts on Gyms and fitness clubs, Salary Sacrifice Bicycle and Car Schemes and many other Employee discounts. 

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