Digital Internship Opportunity: AI & Digital Systems Development Intern
Reference Number: MSSE/Surface
Start Date: 1st April 2026
Location: Ramsgate
Applying for this role: Go to Digital internships in manufacturing | Made Smarter register yourself, once completed, send an email to msasoutheast@surreycc.gov.uk citing the ref and the job you are interested in applying for.
The Business Summary:
Surface Scan is a growing UK manufacturing and technology-led business specialising Leveraging advanced 3D scanning technology, a skilled team of CAD engineers, and a dedicated 3D printing facility, we provide end-to-end 3D solutions for businesses and individuals in all sectors.
We are investing heavily in digital capability, including development of our own CRM, a custom SOP recording app to support ISO accreditation, and the introduction of automation tools to replace manual systems such as our print queue. Our team is ambitious, innovative, and dedicated to using technology to work smarter.
We are proud of our skilled workforce, our commitment to continuous improvement, and our ongoing investment in future-ready digital operations.
What you’ll be doing:
You will work closely with our Marketing Manager and Founders to support the final development and rollout of several internal applications. This role offers autonomy, hands-on learning, and the opportunity to see your work implemented across a real manufacturing business.
1. Work With AI Coding Tools (Claude Code / Terminal-Based AI Development)
• You will use terminal-based AI tools — primarily Claude Code — to assist in the development and completion of our custom web applications. These applications will:
• Improve our internal day-to-day operations
• Potentially be released publicly as subscription-based software products
• You will learn to:
• Structure prompts effectively for coding and debugging
• Maintain and interpret development logs
• Diagnose and fix errors with AI-assisted support
• Test application changes locally
• Deploy updates safely to the live production server
• No prior coding experience is required.
Instead, we value:
• Proactive problem-solving
• Creative and analytical thinking
• Curiosity and a natural flair for technology
2. CRM Completion
• Reviewing and completing the final stages of an in-house CRM system
• Refining workflows, user experience and features
• Testing and resolving issues using AI coding support
3. SOP App Development
• Finalising our SOP recording platform used for ISO preparation
• Enhancing interface and recording functionality
• Ensuring the system is ready for internal adoption
4. Print Queue Automation (If Time Allows)
• Assessing the current manual folder-based print queue
• Supporting the design of an automated digital alternative
• Using AI tools to assist with logic, workflow and simple integrations
What you’ll gain:
• Hands‑on experience developing real applications used daily in a commercial setting
• Training in AI-assisted development workflows
• Exposure to CRM and app development lifecycles
• Understanding of ISO standards and digital compliance
• Experience pushing code to a live production environment
• A portfolio showcasing completed work
• Close collaboration with company founders
• Potential for ongoing paid work after the internship
• A unique opportunity to influence the future of our internal and external digital products
About you:
Essential Skills
• Studying Computer Science, Digital Technologies, Software Engineering, Data/AI, or similar
• Interest in AI-assisted development
• Strong logical problem-solving
• Ability to learn quickly and work independently
• Creative thinker with an interest in digital systems
Desirable Skills
• Experience using AI tools like Claude Code, Copilot or ChatGPT
• Basic understanding of web applications or workflow systems
• Familiarity with UX or UI principles
• Experience with automation tools or low-code platforms
• Exposure to ISO, SOPs or documentation processes
Surface Scan values curiosity and creativity — we welcome interns who think differently, challenge assumptions, and help us create standout digital experiences that set us apart from competitors
This is a hands-on role where you’ll work closely with our permanent team and gain valuable industry experience.