Our undergraduate programmes offer a direct pipeline to our graduate scheme, which is not eligible for sponsorship. Therefore, JLR will only accept applications for this programme from candidates who would have the right to work in the UK at the point that they would successfully convert to the graduate programme.
Achieve the exceptional
JLR’s graduate programme is where your ambition meets automotive innovation. Learn from visionary industry experts, build your network and gain invaluable industry insight. Become integral to our future and build the exceptional career you deserve. Arrive with potential. Grow with freedom.
Your career starts here.
Industrial operations: Manufacturing undergraduate programme (west midlands)
At JLR, our Industrial Operations function is responsible for creating thousands of vehicles every day. The function unites our manufacturing, procurement and supply chain teams and together, they think beyond the challenges of today to build the cars of tomorrow.
You’ll join the manufacturing team as part of this industry leading undergraduate programme, gaining a wide range of skills and practical experience working on projects that are fundamental to our global success.
During the year long programme, you’ll be placed within a primary team, allowing you to develop a deep expertise in your team’s area of focus. Which team you work in will depend on your personal preferences and business needs, but it could be within Global Manufacturing Engineering (GME) or as part of our Solihull Operations.
Find out more about the teams could you be working in below.
Global manufacturing engineering (GME) team
Our GME team are responsible for designing, installing and commissioning the manufacturing facilities that build the modern luxury vehicles of the future.
If you join this team, you’ll collaborate with product engineering, procurement, and manufacturing operations to implement new products, processes and equipment. There are opportunities to work across all our core technologies including body construction, paint, final assembly, propulsion, stampings, logistics, and construction engineering – giving you practical experience in areas throughout the entire production lifecycle. You’ll engage with internal and external stakeholders and manage large capital investment change into our plants. If you enjoy problem-solving and being at the heart of making things happen, the GME team is where you can utilise your skills to play a key role in transforming the future of our brands.
Solihull operations
Our Solihull Operations cover several key manufacturing areas across the West Midlands. If you join this team, you’ll rotate through different phases of the manufacturing and production journey, spending six months at a time focusing on areas such as Current Manufacturing Engineering and Quality and Production Supervision.
During the programme, you’ll gain both technical and leadership experience. Most of your time will be spent on-site in Solihull, where you'll get to work on a variety of projects spanning the introduction of new models, through to quality improvement, cost reduction and logistics operations. We’ll also provide you with comprehensive training in health and safety and people management, ensuring you have the skills and confidence to thrive in your role.
Your development
Our undergraduate programmes are designed to set you up for a lifetime of success, developing your curiosity and creativity over a period of 12 months.
From day one, you’ll be surrounded by an innovative and dedicated team that care about your development. You’ll build essential business skills, including resilience, personal branding, and self-care. Working alongside experienced professionals, you’ll gain valuable industry insights while bringing your academic knowledge to life. Shadowing opportunities will further deepen your understanding of our business and enhance your technical expertise.
Throughout your journey, our Early Careers Delivery team will provide continuous support and guidance, ensuring you make the most of every opportunity. By the time you finish, you’ll be equipped to tackle the challenges of a rapidly changing industry and ready to make a meaningful impact.
What you’ll need
To join the Industrial Operations: Manufacturing Undergraduate programme, you’ll need to be on track to achieve at least a 2.2 degree in manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, material engineering, or aeronautical or automotive engineering if you have a strong interest in manufacturing.
You should be a skilled problem-solver with a curiosity for understanding business challenges and a drive to deliver innovative solutions. Strong numerical and interpersonal skills, along with the confidence to champion new initiatives, are also essential.
Please note that our undergraduate placement opportunities are open only to penultimate-year students (those who will be returning to their final year of study or on an integrated master’s after their placement with us). All our undergraduate programmes have a fixed start date, commencing 7th July 2025.
Rewards and benefits
Our 2025 undergraduate programme salary will be £23,434. You’ll also enjoy a generous holiday allowance, a discounted car purchase and lease scheme for you and your family, an excellent pension scheme and access to a wide range of deals and discounts from retailers and sports clubs.
Diversity and inclusion
At JLR, we’re passionate about our people. They are at the heart of our business. We’re committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive culture that is representative of the society in which we live; a culture in which every one of our employees can bring their authentic self to work and reach their full potential.
JLR is committed to delivering equal opportunities for all. We understand candidates may require reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process. Please discuss these with our recruitment team so we can accommodate your needs.
To learn more about diversity and inclusion at JLR, please visit our website.
Arrive as you are. Achieve the exceptional
You will channel your curiosity and creativity every day, sharpening your skills for a successful, transformative career. You own your development, and only you can make it happen. We’ll be there right by your side in your pursuit of exceptional, and we’ll provide all the encouragement and support you need for a long, fulfilling career. Your potential for impact starts here.
Please be aware that we may close our programmes at any point and at short notice based on the volume of applications received. To give yourself the best chance of being considered for a place on this programme, please apply early.