Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme - Devonport Facilities
// Role Summary
Embark on a transformative 2-year graduate programme in Chemical and Process Engineering at Babcock's Devonport Facilities, supporting critical UK defence projects and the Royal Navy's fleet. Gain hands-on experience across the engineering lifecycle, from design to decommissioning, with structured development and support towards Chartered Engineer status.
// Key Responsibilities
- Work on impactful UK defence projects supporting the Royal Navy's nuclear-powered submarines.
- Gain diverse experience across the engineering lifecycle, including concept design, in-service support, and decommissioning.
- Participate in a 2-year structured programme with rotations across specialist teams like Design Authority and Safety Case.
- Receive comprehensive development including mentorship, training, and support for Chartered Engineer status.
- Minimum starting salary of £35,000 with a range of benefits including holiday, pension, and wellbeing support.
- Requires a degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or related discipline and ability to obtain BPSS and SC clearance.
// Role Specification
Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme – Devonport Facilities
Join our Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme and contribute to vital UK engineering projects, specifically supporting the upkeep of the UK Royal Navy’s nuclear-powered submarine fleet at Devonport. This programme offers a unique opportunity to play a crucial role in the entire engineering lifecycle of nuclear and radiologically implicated process systems and equipment.
What will you do on the programme?
As a Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate within the Devonport Facilities Engineering team, you will be involved in:
- Supporting work across various stages of the engineering lifecycle, from concept design and development to commissioning, in-service support, and decommissioning.
- Collaborating with a network of engineers, technicians, and specialists.
- Developing and modifying system designs.
- Conducting technical analysis and producing engineering drawings and models using CAD software.
- Writing detailed technical reports.
- Performing inspections and validations, including onboard submarines.
Your contributions will be essential in ensuring the safety, reliability, and performance of critical national infrastructure and maintaining the readiness of the Royal Navy.
How is the programme structured?
This is a two-year Facilities Engineering Development Programme delivered on-site at Devonport, Plymouth. You will complete a series of placements, each lasting between 6 and 16 weeks, across specialist teams such as Design Authority, Plant Management, Safety Case, and Operational Support. These placements will offer broad technical exposure and build strong foundations in facilities engineering, tailored to your interests and career goals. You will gain experience working in offices, onboard submarines, and in supporting facilities.
How do we develop and support you?
From day one, you will receive structured support, personalised training, and dedicated mentorship. You’ll join our Graduate Development Programme, which includes expert-led masterclasses on essential professional skills. You will also benefit from extensive technical and non-technical training, including nuclear-specific development. We provide mentoring and cover associated fees to support your journey towards Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status, along with structured development plans, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) support, and regular reviews.
What’s waiting for you after the programme?
Upon successful completion, you will transition into a permanent Chemical and Process Engineering role within the Technical Authority at Devonport. Babcock offers clear career progression pathways through the Babcock Role Framework, supporting your growth into more senior roles with greater responsibility.
What rewards and benefits will you get?
We offer a comprehensive package designed to support your development, wellbeing, and work-life balance. Benefits include:
- A minimum starting salary of £35,000.
- A minimum of 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays.
- Generous pension and employee share schemes.
- Flexible benefits, including a cycle to work scheme and discounts.
- Comprehensive wellbeing support, including an Employee Assistance Programme, digital GP service, and health checks.
You will also have opportunities to engage in STEM outreach activities and volunteering.
What do you need to apply?
- You must have achieved, or be on track to achieve, a bachelor's or master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
- You must be able to achieve and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Naval Nuclear Propulsion Programme Information (NNPPI) clearance is also required.
- Under applicable national security legislation, this post may only be occupied by a sole UK national.
Location: Devonport, Plymouth
Application closing date: 20 October 2026
Programme start date: September 2027