Sales Internship (University Students)

Want to learn technical sales in a B2B engineering environment?

Our Sales Internship combines commercial skills with technical understanding. You'll learn how to prepare quotations, understand customer requirements, and support relationships with prestigious aerospace and defence clients.

This is a fully paid 6-month programme with dedicated mentoring, real customer interaction, and genuine potential for a full-time career in technical sales.

£27,000 per annum (pro-rata for 6 months)

Monday 6th July 2026

R E Thompson is a leading precision aerospace engineering company with over 75 years of experience providing complete manufacturing solutions.

Operating from our advanced facilities in Hampshire, we are home to the UK's most sophisticated automated 5-axis machine shop. Our state-of-the-art Flexible Manufacturing System enables 24/7 lights-out production, and we hold AS9100, ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001 certifications.

We work with prestigious clients including GE Aviation, BAE Systems, and Ontic, delivering complex precision components for the aerospace, defence, automotive, and electronics industries.

• Learn to prepare manufacturing quotations for precision components
• Understand how to read and interpret technical drawings
• Support customer communications and relationship building
• Learn to assess manufacturing requirements and costsUse CRM systems to track opportunities and customer data
• Assist with contract review and order processing
• Gain exposure to aerospace industry requirements
• Understand the sales cycle in precision engineering
• Phase 1 (Months 1-3): Induction, shadowing, guided tasks, building operational understanding
• Phase 1 Review: Assessment of progress and suitability for Phase 2
• Phase 2 (Months 4-6): Greater responsibility, supporting scheduling, full team integration
• Final Assessment: Review with potential for full-time job offer

• Currently studying Business, Engineering, or related discipline
• Interest in technical sales and customer relationships
• Strong numerical and analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• Detail-oriented and organised
• Proactive attitude and commercial awareness

• Competitive salary of £27,000 per annum (pro-rata)Dedicated mentor from day oneStructured development programmeReal project experience for your CVOn-site parkingPotential pathway to full-time employment

  Please note that candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.