Summer & Industrial Placements:
Development & Application
Find out more about what to expect from the application and selection process, hints and tips for writing your CV and attending an interview and read some of the most commonly asked questions about the recruitment process.
Selection process & application
We recruit for the Summer and Industrial Placement programme on an ongoing basis until all roles are filled. We therefore encourage early application to any of our available roles.
Providing you are successful at the interview stage; you will receive a written formal offer for the Summer and Industrial Placement programme.
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Step 1
Apply online
Complete the online application form and upload a copy of your CV and covering letter.
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Step 2
Online testing
You will be invited to complete a series of verbal reasoning, diagrammatical and numerical online tests. If successful, you will receive an invite to stage three of the selection process.
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Step 3
Interview
You will be invited to complete a structured interview either on campus, at one of our project sites or offices or via video link.
Hints & tips
A successful application begins with an exciting CV and ends with an engaging interview. Here we provide some quick tips for job applicants to help you make the most of your strengths and ensure you stand out from the competition.
CV writing tips
- Your CV should be easy to read: use clear fonts, bullet points and concise language.
- If you are still studying start with your education and any relevant qualifications or training, detail what the subjects are and any predicted/achieved grades
- If you have worked summarise your employment history with the most recent position you have held, using action verbs for the greatest impact
- Highlight your individual achievements - not just those where you have excelled as part of a team.
- Always provide contact details, both mobile and email address
- Spell-check your CV and ask someone to proof read it for you.
What can you expect in the interview? How can you best prepare to make a good impression? We offer you a number of hints and tips to give you confidence on the big day, and take control of your own destiny.
Learn as much as you can about Laing O’Rourke: who we are, our services, and our vision for the years ahead. Make sure you can articulate how your strengths and career goals are aligned with ours, and why you think you’ll succeed in our organisation.
Prepare a list of questions for your interviewer(s): so you can assess whether Laing O’Rourke is the right place to launch your career. Ask us about our organisation, our projects, the opportunities we can offer you and what you can expect from us. Remember the recruitment process is two-way so this is your time to decide if we are the right employer for you.
Try to relax and remember that we're interested in the real you: Our interviewers are trained to get the best from you. We know interviews can be stressful, but we want you to enjoy it. Listen carefully to each question and take time to think about your best answer. Think about your strengths and weaknesses, achievements and aspirations - and be ready to discuss them.
Talk to us: we're friendly and always happy to answer your questions. Come along to one of our events on campus or in our offices, and ask our current school leavers or graduates what it's really like to work at Laing O’Rourke.
Get expert advice: your careers service can provide advice and guidance to help you complete your application form and even run you through practice interviews. Parents, family and friends can be really useful sources of information too.
- Dress appropriately for the environment.
- Maintain eye contact, confidence and energy levels throughout.
- If you can reflect on your development so far, talk about what you have learnt and explain if there is anything you would have done differently, this will be viewed in a positive light.
- Listen carefully to questions and think about your answers. If you don’t understand a question, ask your interviewer to explain it.
- Keep your answers concise and relevant.
- Refer to specific examples where you can demonstrate your knowledge and experience
Frequently asked questions
When will I receive feedback from my application?
You will receive feedback within 30 days of submitting your CV.
Can I update my CV on your system?
Yes, you can log into your account via our website to edit or upload new information.
I have entered the wrong contact details on your system how do I change them?
You can log into your account via our website to edit or upload new information.
Who do I contact if I have a question about a vacancy?
Please email queries to [email protected]
Who will contact me regarding my interview?
Should you be invited to attend an interview then the hiring manager or a member of the human resources team will contact you directly.
Can I apply for positions in the UK if I need a work permit?
We welcome applications from all candidates. However, there are restrictions if you are not resident in the UK. You will need to ensure you have full eligibility to work in the UK before making an application. If you are unsure of your eligibility to work in the UK, please visit www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk for more information.
I have a disability, should I declare it?
At the application stage, we ask candidates to indicate if they consider themselves to have a disability so we can ensure adjustments are made to support you during the recruitment process. Any conversations we have with you regarding your disability will be treated with confidentiality. For further information we also recommend that you visit www.greatwithdisability.com
What are the typical hours in a working week?
There's no typical week at Laing O'Rourke. Your contractual hours of 40 hours per week will vary according to the work or project in which you're involved, and you will need to be flexible. The majority of our projects operate Monday to Friday; however, there may be some weekend work, particularly during busy periods. We encourage teams at all levels to work flexibly and to discuss and negotiate how to meet the demands of each project. By communicating regularly with your team and supervisor, you'll be able to understand their expectations and plan your time effectively.
What do people wear at Laing O'Rourke?
Our office dress policy is business attire/wear. However, when on site you will need to dress appropriately for the project (wearing trousers and suitable shoes) and taking the weather into account. A large amount of your time could be spent outdoors. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is provided and will be supplied to you when you join us.
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