Summer Placement Operations Project Manager

Operational Project Management Summer Placement
More care for the environment, more sustainable initiatives, and more support for the communities we serve. That's why we're on a mission to deliver bigger and better things, and we need passionate Summer Placements like you to help us achieve our goals. 
We're proud to be in the top 5% of utility companies worldwide for employee engagement and ranked as a Top 50 UK Employer on Glassdoor. Our Operational Project Management Summer Placement offers a hands-on opportunity to explore how operational excellence and strategic thinking come together to support Severn Trent’s water network infrastructure. You’ll be part of a small but mighty team within Strategic Networks, working on real-world challenges that directly impact our customers and communities.
This placement is designed to give you a deep dive into the world of water networks—from fieldwork to project planning. You’ll gain valuable experience across multiple teams, helping to shape the future of our infrastructure and improve how we deliver essential services.
As part of the programme, you’ll also travel across our region to visit sites, meet teams, and see first-hand how our network operates. Understand the Strategic Networks vision and how it supports Severn Trent’s wider goals.
Conduct research and analysis to propose replacements for key assets like Venturi Pumps.
Explore how operational planning interacts with traffic management, council permits, and repair work.
Identify process inefficiencies and propose solutions to improve design, planning, and delivery timelines.
Support health & safety initiatives by assessing tasks and suggesting improvements.
Gain exposure to project management, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional collaboration.
You’ll also be supported by a dedicated mentor and report into the Performance Manager, ensuring you have guidance every step of the way.
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, because we know that diverse perspectives fuel creativity and drive progress—and that’s exactly what helps us grow.
During the 8-week or 12-week placement you will be based at Severn Trent Centre in Coventry, placing you right at the heart of our operations, you will be working day to day with industry professionals, taking lead on projects and real-life work. You will also get the unique opportunity to travel to operational sites in our region as part of this role.
Throughout Your Time With Us, You’ll Also Benefit From a Range Of Opportunities Designed To Help You Explore Your Career Ambitions, Support Your Development, And Ensure You Get The Most Out Of Your Placement
Employability Sessions -Take part in three tailored workshops focused on building practical skills and career insights to help you thrive in your future career.
Networking Lunch - Connect with fellow placement students in a relaxed setting, share experiences, and start building your professional network.
Alumni Lunch - Meet former interns who have successfully transitioned into full-time roles at Severn Trent. Senior Leader Panel Event - Attend an exclusive session featuring senior leaders from across the business. Discover their career paths, receive valuable advice, and be inspired by their insights.
One-to-One Support -Benefit from regular meetings with managers, Mentors and the New Talent Team
Depending on your year of study, the programme could lead to a fast-track opportunity into another internship programme or even our graduate scheme—helping you take the next step in your career with Severn Trent.
You will expand your knowledge of project and people management, including learning how to effectively manage and influence stakeholders. You’ll also gain a strong business and commercial acumen, developing your ability to plan strategically with time, cost, and quality in mind, and how to deliver this message successfully to a range of stakeholders.
You’ll gain a deeper understanding of why we deliver with our customers at the heart of what we do and how we make sure we communicate this message across our communities.
Driving licence and access to own vehicle is essential as 50% of your time on placement will be spent visiting sites in our region
Preferred individuals studying degrees like Project or business management, Civil/Mechanical Engineering or any related subjects
We want our employees to care and to have a genuine passion for what we do as a business. We need people who want to make a difference in providing a vital service to our customers, now and for the long-term.
A ‘can do’ attitude – someone who’s eager to get involved, takes ownership of their actions, and takes pride in delivering high-quality work.
Excellent communication and collaboration – confident working across multiple teams and building strong working relationships.
Creative thinking – willing to challenge the status quo, bring fresh ideas, and contribute to innovation.
DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
We want to make sure that we continue to foster a more diverse, inclusive, and cohesive culture that represents the communities and customers we serve. We’re making sure we keep up the progress with our wonderful working groups – LGBTQ+, Women in Operations & STEM, Disability and Ethnicity, who help us with our commitments. Find out more about our commitments to Diversity and Inclusion at Severn Trent.
Roles close on 13th January 2026 at Midday (12pm)
To find out more about working with us, search on social media.