Placement year jobs search

Search and discover placement year jobs tailored to your degree, skills, and career goals.

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Kickstart your career with GRB, the UK’s leading platform for placement year opportunities. We connect university students with top employers offering 12-month industrial placements and undergraduate work placements across a wide range of industries. Whether you’re studying business, engineering, science, or the arts, you’ll find roles that align with your degree and ambitions. From fast-growing startups to global brands, our expert consultants help you gain experience that sets you apart.

Get the career you deserve by browsing placement year jobs by subject, industry, location, or salary. New roles are added daily – curated by our consultants to match your goals. Register your free talent profile now and don’t miss out.

Aldi Stores Ltd

National Supply Chain Management Placement

Atherstone

£30,000

British Airways

2027 Undergraduate Opportunties – Register Your Interest

Heathrow

£26,000

Network Rail

Undergraduate Placements – 2027 Register Your Interest

Multiple

£Competitive

MBDA UK

Undergraduate Placement Programme – Register Your Interest

Multiple

£23,495

Müller UK & Ireland

2027 Internship Programme – Register Your Interest

Shropshire

£Competitive

BlackRock

2027 Placement Program – EMEA

London

£Competitive

DHL Aviation

Industrial Placements 2027 – Register Your Interest

£Competitive

DE Shaw

Systems Administrator Industry Placement Year

London

£Competitive

The Phoenix Partnership

Technical Engineer Placement Year

Leeds

£30,000

Grant Thornton UK

Early Careers Programmes – 2027 Register Your Interest

London

£Competitive

AlphaSights

Client Service Placement 2027

London

£35,000

Placement year jobs FAQs

Find clear answers to common questions about placement year jobs, from when to apply to what to expect during your placement, and how to succeed.

What is a placement year and how does it work?

A placement year is a full-time, structured role that students take between their second and final year of university. Often referred to as a “sandwich year” or “industrial placement”, it typically lasts 9 to 12 months and is designed to give students hands-on experience in a professional setting related to their degree. You remain enrolled with your university and usually return after the placement to complete your final year. A placement year helps you apply academic knowledge, build industry skills, and enhance your employability through real-world projects and responsibilities.

Do I have to take a placement year as part of my degree?

Not every university course includes a placement year, but many offer it as an optional opportunity. If your course is titled “with placement year”, it is typically expected as part of the degree. Even if it is not a requirement, choosing to do a placement year can provide a major advantage in your future career. It offers real-world experience, helps you build a professional network, and often leads to graduate job offers. Check your course details or speak with your academic advisor to confirm your eligibility and requirements.

When should I start applying for placement year jobs?

You should begin applying for placement year jobs at the start of your second year at university. Many large companies open applications in September or October, with deadlines closing as early as December. Smaller businesses may advertise roles later, between January and May. Some roles are highly competitive and filled on a rolling basis, so applying early gives you the best chance of success. Prepare your CV and cover letter well in advance. GRB regularly updates placement year jobs, so registering early ensures you never miss a new opening.

Will my placement year help me get a graduate job later?

Yes, completing a placement year can significantly improve your chances of securing a graduate job after university. Employers value real-world experience, and having a full year of industry work on your CV helps you stand out from other graduates. You’ll develop transferable skills, build confidence, and gain insights into the type of role or company that suits you. Many students receive graduate job offers from their placement employer, especially if they perform well. Even if you don’t, the experience shows future employers that you’re work-ready and serious about your career after completing your placement job.

Is a placement year the same as an internship or work experience?

While similar, these opportunities differ in structure and length. A placement year is a full-time role lasting 9 to 12 months, usually taken between your second and final year of university. It is often assessed and forms part of your degree. Internships are shorter, often during summer, and last a few weeks to a few months. Work experience is a broader term that can include shadowing or part-time roles. A placement year provides more in-depth exposure, real responsibility, and can significantly boost your chances of landing a graduate job.

Are placement year jobs paid, and how much can I expect?

Yes, most placement year jobs are paid. Salaries vary based on the company, industry, and location, but students can typically expect to earn between £18,000 and £25,000 per year. In some sectors such as engineering, finance, or technology, salaries can exceed £26,000. Alongside a competitive salary, some placements also offer benefits like training, mentoring, travel expenses, or relocation support. Unpaid placements are rare and generally discouraged for year-long roles. At GRB, we only list paid student placements and placement year jobs, ensuring you gain both experience and a salary.

Can I do a placement year abroad or relocate?

Yes, many students choose to complete their placement year abroad or relocate within the UK for the right opportunity. Some universities offer structured international placement options through programs like Erasmus or the Turing Scheme, while others support global opportunities through employer partnerships. Working abroad or in a new city helps broaden your perspective, improve cultural awareness, and build your independence. It also demonstrates adaptability to future employers. Before applying, make sure to check visa requirements, language expectations, and university approval processes. GRB features placements across the UK and internationally, giving you plenty of options to explore.

What sort of projects and responsibilities will I have?

Placement year roles are designed to offer real, hands-on experience that reflects the work of full-time employees. Depending on the company and sector, you might be involved in live client projects, data analysis, product development, marketing campaigns, financial reporting, or software testing. Some students are given the chance to manage small projects independently or rotate across departments. You’ll likely receive structured training, regular feedback, and mentorship from experienced staff. These roles are more than just administrative support – they are genuine opportunities to contribute, learn, and build professional confidence ahead of graduation.

Will I be the only student, or are there others in placement?

This varies depending on the size and structure of the employer. Larger companies often hire multiple placement students each year and may run structured cohorts or student schemes, giving you the chance to meet peers and build a network. Smaller firms or startups might take on just one or two students, which often leads to more varied tasks and closer team integration. In both settings, you’ll be part of a professional team and treated as a valued contributor. GRB works with a wide range of employers, allowing you to choose the environment that suits your goals and preferences.

How can I improve my chances of securing a placement year job?

To stand out in a competitive market, start early and tailor every application. Make sure your CV highlights your academic strengths, transferable skills, and any relevant experience such as part-time jobs, volunteering, or extracurricular projects. Write focused, personalised cover letters that show enthusiasm and research into the employer. Practise common interview questions and refine your communication skills. Keep track of application deadlines and follow up professionally when needed. Registering with GRB gives you access to exclusive roles and personalised guidance, helping you submit high-quality applications and secure the right placement year job for your goals.