Frequently asked questions.
What opportunities do you offer students and graduates?
We offer two types of early careers opportunities:
Placement Scheme: this is a 12-month scheme targeted at 2nd year university students looking to work through a year in industry. Our placement schemes are structured to give you the combination of real-world industry experience and ongoing training, so you are continually learning new skills.
Graduate Scheme: Our graduate schemes are targeted at those that have completed their education and are looking to kick-start their career. Again, our graduate schemes are structured and include comprehensive training alongside your day-to-day job.
We have opportunities for anyone studying business-related topics, those that are looking to become software developers or interested in UX design.
How do I apply?
You can apply for any of our roles by completing the short application form and attaching an up-to-date copy of your CV. Find our available roles on our careers page.
What are the minimum entry requirements?
Placements You must be a 2nd-year university student looking to complete a 12-month industry placement, and studying a relevant course to the role you are applying for
Graduates You will need to have completed your bachelor’s degree by the time the role commences. Masters students are eligible as well. We ask for a minimum grade of 2:1
What do you look for in a candidate?
For our placement and graduate schemes, you should be studying a relevant degree subject to the role you are applying for. E.g. if you are applying for a Software Development role you should be studying Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computing, or something similar. Check the ‘About you’ section of the job advert for more details.
Outside of education, we look for ambitious people that are eager to learn and develop themselves professionally. You’ll need a positive can-do attitude, solid communication skills, and a great team ethic.
Can I apply for more than one role?
No, we ask that you review the job adverts and think carefully about which role is most aligned to your skill set and interests. If you apply for two roles, your first application will be the one that is considered. If you feel you need more information on any of the roles you can contact our Early Careers Recruiter for more information: talent.management@pinewood.co.uk.
I am an international student, can I apply?
For most roles at Pinewood we require applicants to have the right to work in the UK. However, if you have studied in the country, we may in certain circumstances consider switching your visa to a skilled worker visa. Please note, this is not guaranteed and is treated on a case-by-case basis.
In addition to this as of 1st July 2021, the UK government will open applications for the new ‘Graduate Route’. If you are granted this visa you will be eligible to work in the UK for up to two years and will also be considered for roles with us.
What is the application process?
There are usually 4 stages to our recruitment process:
• Application
• Online interview
• Assessment Centre
• Final Interview
This process is dependent on the position you are applying for and could deviate slightly from the above. Further details will be given upon application.
When do applications close?
Our recruitment process tends to follow the academic calendar. Applications open in September, and graduate and placement roles begin the following Summer – typically between July and September. To avoid disappointment, we recommend applying as soon as possible – once our roles are filled applications will close.
I graduated a few years ago, can I still apply for the Graduate scheme?
Yes, we consider those that have graduated in the past couple of years.
Can I reapply for a position if I have been unsuccessful in the past?
We welcome re-applications from those that were unsuccessful in the past as we realize people develop their skillset over time. We would recommend waiting a minimum of 12 months before reapplying for a new role and we would look for evidence that you have taken previous feedback onboard.
Where would the role be based?
You would be based at our head office which is located at Birmingham Business Park. You will find our office here: 2960 Trident Court, Solihull Parkway, Birmingham Business Park, Birmingham B37 7YN.
We offer a flexible work environment that includes flexible start times and hybrid working – the split between home and office work is dependent on your team and can be discussed with your team leader once you have started with us.
What training and support do you provide?
Whether you are a placement student or graduate you will work through an initial training period during your first few weeks. During this training, you will be introduced to the business, our product and can expect to learn vital skills specific to your role. Following this, you can expect plenty of on-the-job training, support from a dedicated mentor, and ongoing workshops and training sessions throughout your scheme.
What benefits do you offer?
At Pinewood we invest in early careers in a big way, we don’t just want our placements to join us for 12 months, we look for those who can develop a long-term career with us. Placement students who do well during their placement year can expect a graduate job offer to rejoin us after their final year at university.
For all roles, we offer a competitive salary, ongoing training, and progression opportunities. You can also expect regular social events, free tea, coffee, and fruit, 25 days holiday, company discounts, and free access to our onsite gym.
For role-specific benefits such as bonuses please check the job specification.
Equality and Diversity Policy
“We are committed to ensuring that our workplaces are free from unlawful or unfair discrimination on the grounds of age, colour, race, nationality, ethnic or national origin, marital status, disability, sex or sexuality, gender reassignment, religious belief, part time or fixed term status within the framework of law.”