Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme
// Role Summary
Embark on Babcock's Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme to work on impactful UK defence projects, developing technical and leadership skills across diverse engineering lifecycles.
// Key Responsibilities
- Gain hands-on experience in designing, developing, and integrating critical national infrastructure.
- Undertake a two-year rotational programme with placements every 3-6 months.
- Receive structured support, mentorship, and expert-led masterclasses for professional development.
- Opportunity to work towards Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status.
- Potential roles include designing submarines, surface ships, military vehicles, and nuclear power plants.
- Requires BPSS and SC security clearance.
// Role Specification
About the Programme
Join our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme and contribute to some of the UK’s most significant engineering projects. This is an opportunity to develop essential technical expertise and leadership skills while working on solutions that safeguard the future.
At Babcock, you will be involved in various stages of the engineering lifecycle, from innovation and design through to production, commissioning, support, and decommissioning. You could be contributing to the design of submarines and surface ships, converting military vehicles, refurbishing vessels, or advancing next-generation nuclear power plants aligned with the UK’s net-zero targets.
Collaborate with a global network of engineers and specialists on projects that ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of critical national infrastructure. Your work may involve leading design reviews, overseeing stress analysis, or managing the integration of mechanical systems into high-performance platforms.
Programme Structure
The two-year programme features rotations through different placements every three to six months, offering exposure to a variety of projects and teams. These rotations are designed to broaden your experience, build your professional network, and deepen your understanding of the business. You will gradually take on increased responsibilities, including leading small teams and overseeing projects, with opportunities to align placements with your career interests.
Development and Support
From the start, you will benefit from structured support, personalised training, and dedicated mentorship. You will join our Graduate Development Programme, which includes expert-led masterclasses covering topics such as communication, personal branding, resilience, and wellbeing. Babcock will provide guidance and cover fees associated with achieving Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status.
Career Progression
Upon successful completion of the programme, you will transition into a permanent role within our Engineering Function. You can continue to build upon your skills and progress towards professional registration, which is a recognised benchmark of engineering competence. This can support your advancement into more senior roles, such as Senior Engineer. Babcock's global organisation offers numerous opportunities for skill enhancement and career progression, with a transparent Babcock Role Framework outlining career pathways and development opportunities.
Rewards and Benefits
In addition to a minimum starting salary of £35,000, dependent on location, role, and qualifications, you will receive:
- 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 participate in STEM outreach activities and volunteering.
Application Requirements
Applicants must have achieved, or be on track to achieve, a BEng or MEng in Mechanical, Structural, Motorsport, Materials, Mechatronics, Engine Systems, Welding, Automotive, or AeroMechanical engineering. Eligibility for this programme is dependent on the ability to obtain and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) security clearance. Due to national security legislation, this post may only be occupied by a sole UK national.
Location
This programme offers opportunities in Bristol, Plymouth, and Ashchurch in Gloucestershire. While placements may be at different UK sites, flexibility and openness to relocation are encouraged. Agile working is supported, with an expectation of working on-site multiple times a week.
Application Process
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; early submission is recommended. Please apply to only one programme. If your chosen programme becomes oversubscribed, Babcock may contact you regarding other eligible programmes. Babcock is a Disability Confident Employer and welcomes requests for adjustments or support during the application process via accesshelp@babcockinternational.com. Flexible working arrangements can be discussed at interview.