Vehicle and Systems Test Industrial Placement

Who are we?

Based in Cranfield, Bedfordshire, NTCE (Nissan Technical Centre, Europe) is our UK Research and Development hub.  We are home to the functions that help us lead the way in vehicle design and development of the vehicles manufactured in our European plants.  With more than 900 people based here from over 25 different countries, it’s a hive of ideas, imagination, and vision, based in open-plan spacious offices designed to encourage cross-functional collaboration.  

The teams at the Cranfield Nissan Technical Centre work to develop engineering and design requirements for new car models across the world.  Here you’ll find departments such as Research & Development Test and Design, Product Economic Control, Purchasing, Legal, HR, Finance and Total Customer Satisfaction, all enjoying modern on-site facilities like our gym and sports and social club.

Purpose

This 12-month Research & Development industrial placement, starting in August 2025, is a great chance to take theory from university and put it into practice in a fast-paced environment.  This provides a chance for real responsibility and hands-on experience in a challenging and diverse environment and it is not about sitting on the side-lines; you'll be a valued member of the team from day one, gaining hands-on experience and working alongside industry experts.

There are 2 roles available within Nissan R&D Test which are in Body Test (doors, windows and body structure etc. tested for strength, durability and operation until it breaks!) and Interior/Exterior Systems Test (lamps, wipers, bumpers, interior and exterior plastic trim parts, seats etc. tested for squeaks and rattles, environmental resistance, fit and rigidity).  Both roles sit within the target setting, validation and testing part of the business and are strongly objective measurement led.  The main purpose of the team is to establish objective targets based on the performance requirements of key attributes, cascade detailed requirements to engineering design groups, then manage and validate delivery of these targets using digital evaluation tools and physical bench, system and vehicle testing.  The primary role of a Test Engineer is to manage these activities for their test commodities, normally across all vehicle programs.

You will have the opportunity to:

• Gain hands-on experience in developing the next generation of EV/ICE whilst gaining a comprehensive understanding of the R&D process by following the development lifecycle and working alongside experienced professionals.

• Take responsibility for areas of testing and investigation.

• Develop strong analytical and communication skills by resolving concerns and reporting to the business and actively participating in project data analysis and reporting.

• You will be given the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and initiative, contributing to real-world projects that make a significant impact.

Main Tasks & Responsibilities

• To support body systems and structure or interior/exterior systems testing and development on a range of vehicles, ensuring that testing standards and targets are achieved in line with development schedules.

• To plan and perform physical tests in lab facilities and in vehicles at NTCE Cranfield and at external testing facilities, update the status in the internal systems and report to the project management.

• To support evaluation of your allocated test area using digital systems and tools.

• Conduct data analysis & concern investigation to resolve development project and real-world market concerns, develop appropriate countermeasures and manage validation and adoption.

• To generate presentations, technical reports and milestone meeting materials.

• To conduct benchmarking activities of competitor vehicles and new technologies.

• To liaise with cross-functional R&D groups within both Design and Test organisations based in UK, Spain and Japan.

What you will need to be successful

• A highly motivated and results-oriented student studying a degree in any engineering (or similar) discipline.

• Team player who will thrive in a fast-paced environment.

• Someone that can manage complex tasks simultaneously.

• The ability to communicate clearly & concisely, both verbally & in writing.

• Sufficient evidence of your right to work in the UK will be required.

What we offer

We firmly believe that investment in our employees is integral to their growth and success.  As a member of our team, you will have access to many of our benefits - because we want you to feel cared for, supported, and engaged at Nissan.  Alongside comprehensive career development and learning opportunities, you will also have access to a wide range of employee benefits. 

• Competitive base salary starting at £21,587

• Remote Working Policy (maximum 2 days per week WFH)

• Flexible Working Options

  • 39 hours per week

  • Standard Working Hours: Mon-Thurs 8am-5pm, Fri 8am-1:20pm

  • 2+/- flexible hour adjustments (Subject to manager approval)

• 26 days holiday + Bank Holidays

• Free onsite parking & subsidised restaurant

• Onsite Gym Facilities

At Nissan we believe that diversity gives us strength and is key to the success of our business.  That’s why we pride ourselves on being an equal opportunities employer and have a range of Talent initiatives in place, such as high potential development, leadership, and career coaching to support our female workforce.  In a male dominated industry, our UK data shows that on average, women’s mean hourly pay is more than men.  We pride ourselves on being a transparent, cross-cultural, and competitive business.

Diversity and Inclusion:

All of us at Nissan - regardless of functional area or expertise - share a passion to design, manufacture and sell high-performance, fun to drive vehicles.  Nissan is an Equal Opportunity Employer for all.  Applicants will be considered for all positions regardless of race, gender, military status, disability, or any other status protected by law.

Please note, it is essential to include your CV with your application, as this is a mandatory requirement. A cover letter may be submitted at your discretion.

Closing date: 12th January 2025 -  Nissan reserves the right to terminate this advertisement prematurely.