Software Engineer - Industrial Placement - #2088856

About Watt Laser

Watt Laser designs and builds high-performance laser systems. Our machines combine precision optics, motion control, electronics, and the software that drives them is at the heart of every product we ship. Our products span multiple industries including electronics and automotive.

The placement

We are looking for a university student on an industrial placement programme to join our engineering team for a 12-month period. You will work alongside experienced engineers writing the software that controls our laser machines and the systems around them, from low-level hardware control to the interfaces operators use every day.

This is a hands-on role with real responsibility. The code you write will run on machines we sell to customers, and you will see your work go from idea to operating hardware during your year with us.

What you’ll do

• Develop and test software that controls laser machines, motion stages and related hardware.
• Work with control systems reading from sensors, driving actuators and keeping processes running reliably and safely.
• Build and improve tools, interfaces and dashboards used to operate, monitor and calibrate our machines.
• Help diagnose and fix issues across software, electronics and hardware, often working hands-on.
• Contribute to design discussions, code reviews and documentation as a full member of the team.

What we’re looking for

• Currently studying towards a degree in Software/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electronics, Mechatronics or a related subject, on a course that includes a placement year.
• Solid programming fundamentals – experience with C# or similar language.
• An interest in how software meets the physical world: control systems, hardware, electronics or robotics.
• A practical, methodical approach to problem-solving and a willingness to get hands-on in the lab.
• Good communication skills and the enthusiasm to learn quickly in a small, collaborative team.

Nice to have

• Exposure to embedded systems, microcontrollers or real-time programming.
• Experience with motion control, instrumentation, signal processing or test automation.
• Any personal, academic or hobby projects involving hardware or control.

What you’ll get

• A genuine engineering role with mentoring, ownership of real projects and a clear view of how a product is built end to end.
• Experience across the full stack of a physical product – software, control, electronics and optics.
• A competitive salary.

Placement details

Role: Software Engineering Industrial Placement (12 months) - Paid

Start date: Summer 2026

Location: Glasgow

Eligibility: Must be a registered student returning to study after the placement year.