Mechanical Design Engineer (Placement Year)

Mechanical Engineering & Design Engineer - Placement Year (12 Months)

Kick‑start your career with the people who drive Formula 1.

Role Overview

The Mechanical Engineering and Design department are looking to place a dynamic and creative individual who can make a strong contribution to our mechanical engineering team and design activities. In return for a fresh, alternative, and innovative approach to our designs, the successful applicant will experience a fast-paced stimulating engineering environment.

In this role, you’ll work closely with experienced engineers and technicians, gaining exposure to the full product development lifecycle - from the initial brief right through to final handover. This is a genuine learning opportunity where your ideas matter, and your skills will grow fast.

Over the 12 month placement, you’ll report directly to our Mechanical Design Manager and be supported throughout your placement as you develop both your technical and professional skills.

What You’ll Be Doing

As part of the team, you’ll get involved in a wide range of activities, including:

• Supporting the design, development and production of high‑quality, innovative mechanical solutions with a strong focus on function, aesthetics and reliability
• Creating and updating 3D CAD models and 2D drawings, as well as modifying existing designs and documentation
• Working across the entire project lifecycle:
  • Concept generation
  • Design and development
  • Prototyping and testing
  • Diagnosing issues and supporting manufacture
  • Commissioning and final handover
• Breaking down complex engineering problems and contributing simple, practical, and effective solutions
• Assisting with prototype builds and small-volume production in the workshop, under the guidance of experienced technicians

This role offers excellent exposure to both design office work and hands‑on engineering, helping you build confidence across disciplines.

Who We’re Looking ForEssential Requirements

• Currently studying a design‑based degree (e.g. Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Industrial Design)
• Have successfully completed Years 1 and 2 of your degree
• Available to complete a placement year between 2nd and 3rd year

Desirable (but not essential)

• Previous hands‑on workshop or practical experience
• Experience using 3D CAD software (any recognised mechanical design package)
• Exposure to real‑world engineering projects through university, personal projects or internships

Skills & Knowledge

You should be able to demonstrate:

• A basic understanding of DFMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly)
• An interest in practical engineering, with an appreciation for aesthetics and ergonomics
• Willingness to get hands‑on in a workshop environment
• Strong communication, problem‑solving and analytical skills
• The ability to work independently when required, with support always available

Personal Qualities That Will Help You Succeed

We’re looking for someone who is:

• A team player, but confident working independently when needed
• Curious, proactive and keen to take initiative
• Organised and motivated, with a strong attention to detail
• Interested in motorsport and high‑performance engineering environments

Career Progression – Where Could This Placement Take You?

This placement is could take you into a Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer opportunity after you complete your degree. You’ll leave the placement with valuable industry experience, practical skills, and a strong understanding of how professional engineering teams operate.

Why join the force behind the sport?

Joining F1 means becoming part of a team that values innovation, collaboration and personal growth. We offer a dynamic work environment where ideas are heard, and employee contributions truly make an impact. We seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most talented people to play their role in accelerating the future of the sport. As a member of the F1 team, you will be able to access our amazing benefits:

• Private Healthcare scheme
• Dental Care
• 4 x Grand Prix Paddock passes per season
• Enhanced maternity/paternity leave and other family planning policies
• A free staff shuttle service running to and from surrounding train stations near to Biggin Hill
• Free healthy snacks in our offices
• Subsidised canteen in Biggin Hill, serving breakfast and lunch
• 25 days annual leave and 8 Bank Holiday days, plus a Christmas period closure
• Opportunities to develop and request training for your role via our in-house Learning and Development team
• Discount on F1 merchandise
• Discount at F1’s experiences including F1 Arcade and F1 Drive
• Perkbox benefit portal and more

Division

Technical