Finding a Motorsport Graduate programme can be tough. Competition is fierce but the rewards are phenomenal and most people are offered rewarding careers at the end of their placement.
In our recent post ‘A Message from Motorsport Recruiters…’ following on from the MIA Jobs Fair we spoke with a host of the top recruiters from some of the top teams and manufacturers within the sport. The resounding message to anyone looking to work in motorsport is that experience was equally as important as a recognised qualification. See below:
What are the Qualifications needed for these positions?
“A good degree is a start”
“Masters as a minimum for this position”
“A good degree with lots of experience”
“Experience, experience and some more experience plus sound academic qualifications on top”
“But how do we get the experience?” you cried! A Motorsport Graduate position is one of the best ways to get hands-on experience whilst being paid to do the job you love. Yes, the salary may not be what you could achieve elsewhere but this is what sorts the dedicated from the hobbyist. Sometimes you have to sacrifice for the future good. In this case, for your future career and job satisfaction.
The New Year is often a great time to get your career back on track and there are some great Graduate roles opening up pre-season. Here are our pick of the Top 5 Motorsport Graduate Programmes and Jobs in 2020.
Aerodynamics Motorsport Graduates:
Williams – Graduate Aero Designer
Working with the world-leading Wind-Tunnel team, this role is accepting applications from those qualified from apprentice, HND/HNC or degree level. You’ll be expected to perform well in a high-paced and dynamic environment though F1 experience is not essential. This really is one of the best motorsport graduate positions available at the moment.
Applications close on 10th January and must be submitted via the Williams Careers website. So don’t delay – get your application in asap!
Just to pique your interest, here’s a 60 second video of their wind tunnel facility
SportPesa Racing – Graduate Aerodynamicist
Don’t let the pink put you off!! SportPesa Racing are well funded and looking to the engineers of the future to help them gain a foothold in the world of F1.
You must be qualified to degree level or equivalent and ‘a good working knowledge of CAD and current CFD methods would be a distinct advantage.’ If you’re already qualified to Level 3 but don’t yet have a degree level qualification, many graduate programmes will still accept your application if you are working towards one. The National Motorsport Academy degrees have been designed for specifically this purpose. You can earn while you learn! We have students and graduate studying towards both BSc qualifications and MSc whilst working with some of the top teams in motorsport. Find out more about studying for an online motorsport degree here.
There’s a little longer to apply for this motorsport graduate role. You have until 31st January to apply via email with your current CV and cover letter to: personnel@racingpoint.com
Motorsport Engineering Internship
Bosch
Starting in July 2020, this graduate internship with Bosch is a great one for a current Under Graduate studying towards a motorsport or mechanical engineering degree. You’ll be supporting the motorsport team with technical tasks, including trackside support, system design and calibration and data analysis so it’s very hands-on.
Based in Nuneaton, UK, it’s commutable from many areas. This entry-level motorsport internship has been designed for those who are required to do a placement as part of their degree course. NMA students are eligible to apply and it’s a commitment for a 12 month period.
Possibly the Most Progressive Motorsport Graduate Position
Graduate Mechanical Engineering Scheme – Integral Powertrain Ltd
You may not have heard of Integral but we’re sure you’ve heard of the Volkeswagon Motorsport ID, the Aston Martin Valkyrie and Lotus’ Evija, all of which are or will be powered by Integral e-Drive. Integral are a world-leading powertrain specialist who develop ground-breaking hybrid and electric motor systems.
This 2 year internship will see you design, analyse, build and test systems which will go on to become world-firsts. This is an opportunity not to be missed!
Graduate Engineer
Cosworth
Cosworth’s pedigree in the world of motorsport can’t be debated. They have been an influential innovator in the space for 60 years and continue to push the boundaries of motorsport technology. They are now looking for a Motorsport Graduate Engineer who can support their engineering team as they seek to develop high performance engine and electric solutions.
The Job Spec states that you’ll need a 2:1 or higher in a relevant field. As much as they will accept applications from engineering and mechanical engineering graduates, you will need knowledge of motorsport or automotive engineering principles.
New Year, New Career
If you are still dreaming of a career in motorsport and have only qualified to Level 3, get your act together and apply for an online Motorsport Degree. Our students don’t have to wait until they’ve qualified to chase their dreams! They are out there, actively working in motorsport and getting qualified at the same time. We have students in every Formula 1 Team, WRC, WEC and a host of other global racing series. You can even fit your studies around your home life. Come on. Apply! What do you have to lose??
