Digital Systems Development & Implementation Intern
About The Business: G&J CNC is a forward-thinking precision manufacturing business known for its strong foundations, commitment to innovation, and continuous improvement. The company prides itself on its highly skilled workforce and investment in quality processes. G&J CNC manufactures precision-engineered components and operates within a demanding supply chain environment, supplying to customers who rely on reliability, quality, and accuracy. The business differentiates itself through its commitment to lean principles, operational excellence, and a willingness to embrace digitally enabled improvements.
Overview: The intern will work on a high-impact, real-world digital systems project with clear ownership and freedom to innovate.
Desirable Skills: Software development
Job Description:
Primary Project – Vending Machine System Replacement (Core Deliverable)
You will:
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Analyse the current tooling vending machine system (Windows-based machine with unsupported online portal).
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Understand how the machine communicates, generates reports, and manages stock, users, and transactions.
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Work with the current vendor (limited support expected) to extract system behaviour and requirements.
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Develop a replacement local/offline portal or equivalent interface that can:
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Control the vending machine hardware
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Authenticate users (PIN-based access)
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Track transactions and usage
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Generate weekly usage and stock reports
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Maintain or improve existing workflows
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Ensure the solution can be replicated for the secondary site in Norfolk.
Secondary Project Options (If time permits / up to full 300 hours)
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ERP/MRP System Review & Light Automation
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Explore automation opportunities within the company’s SQL Server–based ERP system.
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Investigate report generation improvements.
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Map opportunities for safe process enhancements without modifying core system integrity.
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IT System Review & Disaster Recovery Plan
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Evaluate current IT provider arrangements and system configurations.
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Check backup processes, server access, and data recovery readiness.
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Help produce or update a formal disaster recovery plan.
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Cyber Essentials Support
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Review Cyber Essentials requirements.
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Assess current compliance and gaps.
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Work with the external provider to prepare documentation for certification.
The role offers a combination of software development, systems analysis, IT infrastructure understanding, and practical hardware interaction — ideal for students who enjoy hands-on, applied digital problem-solving.
What you’ll gain:
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Experience delivering a complete, standalone digital systems project from discovery to implementation.
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Exposure to manufacturing and engineering environments.
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Real-world problem-solving and the opportunity to create a system that directly impacts business efficiency.
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Experience working with:
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SQL Server databases
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ERP/MRP environments
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Hardware–software integrations (vending systems)
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IT infrastructure and cyber security standards
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The chance to develop a project suitable for a dissertation, portfolio, or career specialism.
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Support from experienced engineers, operations leaders, and external technical contacts.
About you:
Essential Skills
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Strong interest or experience in software development
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Understanding of programming concepts (any modern language)
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Ability to analyse systems and reverse‑engineer functionality
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Problem-solving mindset and ability to work independently
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Willingness to learn new tools, systems, and technologies
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Good communication skills to work with vendor contacts, technical staff, and internal teams
Desirable Skills
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Experience with SQL Server or database-driven applications
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Familiarity with Microsoft Access or other database front-end tools
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Understanding of APIs or hardware/software communication
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Interest in cyber security or IT infrastructure
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Experience generating automated reports or building dashboards
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Prior exposure to manufacturing, engineering, or industrial settings