Job Description

Location:

Thanckes, Torpoint, Cornwall, with occasional travel to Contractor Project Office, and other OPA site locations. This placement is offered on a 1-year FTC (fixed term contract) full time, Monday to Friday, with a salary of 23,960 per annum.

Introduction:

This is an excellent opportunity for a Mechanical Engineering undergraduate to work within an Operational environment undergoing extensive revamp. You will be able to gain valuable experience and develop skills towards your successful career while gaining experience of projects through the complete life cycle.

OPA Requirements:

We are seeking a Placement Student to work alongside the Major Projects Team for the Thanckes Tank Farm Project (TTFP). Further site inspection and maintenance projects may be included as an additional requirement if such an opportunity arises.

Job Scope:

We are committed to developing students and you will be trained and mentored to assist in a variety of tasks. Due to our business approach, the candidate will gain a range of experience in engineering design, construction process, exposure to project site management, stakeholder relations, project delivery, and business operation.


The role will provide an opportunity to receive significant exposure to working within the public sector. You will assist on multidisciplinary projects and receive help from a range of team members.


While on placement with the OPA you will have support and guidance from managers, supervisors, and the project team to enable you to apply your degree knowledge and fulfil your potential, gaining confidence and experience as an individual, and learning new skills in a real operational environment.


The skills and knowledge you gain from your placement will be very helpful to the rest of your University course and may provide you with the opportunity to fast track the application process when applying for Graduate roles within our organisation following the completion of your degree (subject to performance). We are a friendly and professional agency that is proud of the quality of service it delivers.


During your placement you can expect a dedicated manager, who will give you the technical knowledge you need and "real world" opportunities for you to get involved to demonstrate your ability. Your manager will also give you regular reviews and feedback.


The candidate will be placed in the Thanckes Tank Farm Project Team.

Responsibilities:

Assist in the preparation of conceptual designs. Assist in the preparation of detailed designs in accordance with current standards and codes including calculations, design risk assessments, and sufficiently detailed sketches for the preparation of working drawings. Under supervision by a Senior Engineer or the senior management team, assist with conducting visual and detail examinations of site assets as required during site walkarounds. Ensure that all work undertaken is carried out in accordance with company quality procedures and that a high level of professionalism is maintained. Assist in the responses of design related queries during the design/construction phases to an amicable resolution. Attend meetings when appropriate. Work with design contractors as the client representative, including visits to the contractor office. Produce engineering reports and standard documentation or calculations for minor site projects and Major Project libraries.

Full details of the responsibilities can be found in the job description for this role, which is available to download at the bottom of this page.

Advantages:

There are a number of advantages you will achieve from this placement to enhance your cv and skills you will develop to assist your career after you have qualified:

Engineering Exposure, i.e. experience working in a technical role on site and in a design project environment. The opportunity to liaise with project external stakeholders, contractors, and official public bodies in a technical capacity. Exposure to the OPA as a company Develop analytical, problem solving, time management, practical and presentation skills. Generate valuable contacts within the industry, whilst building your cv with valuable experience.

Candidate Requirements:

Candidates should be in their penultimate year, working towards a degree in Mechanical Engineering, and possess strong analytical and numerical skills.


Proficiency in the Microsoft office suite is desirable (MS Word / Excel). It is essential that you have the ability to work well within a team and possess good communication and interpersonal skills. We will expect a professional attitude to work, a willingness to learn and the ability to adapt to different scenarios.


A full (preferably clean) UK driving licence is advantageous, but not essential.

5 Years UK Residency is required to be able to obtain Security Clearance to SC Level.

Interviews: 14 April 2026 (Face to Face)

Start date: July 2026