Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme - Devonport Facilities

Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme - Devonport Facilities

Join our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme and get the opportunity to work on some of the UK’s most impactful engineering projects. You will directly support the upkeep of the UK Royal Navy’s fleet of nuclear-powered submarines at Devonport, which is Western Europe’s largest naval base.

As a Mechanical Engineering Graduate, you will play a vital role in supporting activities across all stages of the engineering lifecycle for a range of mechanical systems and equipment. This includes systems with nuclear and radiological implications, covering concept and design development, construction, commissioning, in-service support, and decommissioning.

As a member of Devonport’s Facilities Engineering team, you will work with specialist teams in the design and assessment of fluid systems, mechanical handling equipment, and building services. Your expertise will help ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of critical national infrastructure.

Throughout the programme, you will collaborate with a network of engineers, technicians, and specialists. You will be involved in developing and modifying system designs, conducting technical analysis, producing engineering drawings and models using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, writing detailed technical reports, and performing inspections and validations, including onboard submarines. Every task you undertake will contribute to the safe operation of nuclear infrastructure and the continued readiness of the Royal Navy.

Programme Structure

This is a Facilities Engineering Development Programme, delivered on-site at Devonport, Plymouth. Over two years, you will complete a series of placements lasting between 6 and 16 weeks across specialist teams such as Design Authority, Plant Management, Safety Case, and Operational Support. These placements will combine work in offices, onboard submarines, and in supporting facilities. Each placement is shaped around your interests and career goals, providing broad technical exposure and the chance to build strong foundations in facilities engineering.

By the end of the programme, you will be well-prepared to take on a permanent role as a Mechanical Engineer at Babcock, equipped with the skills, confidence, and experience to make a real impact.

Development and Support

From day one, you will receive structured support, personalised training, and dedicated mentorship. You will join our Graduate Development Programme, featuring expert-led masterclasses on communication, personal branding, resilience, and wellbeing. You will also benefit from a wide range of technical and non-technical training opportunities, including nuclear-specific development.

To support your journey toward Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status, we provide mentoring and cover all associated fees. You will also have access to structured development plans, support with Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and regular reviews with your line managers, placement managers, and mentor.

Post-Programme Opportunities

Upon completing the programme, you will step into a Mechanical Engineering role as part of the Technical Authority at Devonport. Your development will continue, with support to grow into more senior roles and take on greater responsibility. The Babcock Role Framework provides a clear view of career progression, with mapped-out pathways and development opportunities.

Rewards and Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package designed to support your development, wellbeing, and life outside of work.

• 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 cycle to work scheme and discounts
• Wellbeing support, covering mental, physical, financial, and social wellbeing, with services like our Employee Assistance Programme, digital GP service, and health checks.

You will also have the chance to get involved in our STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities.

Application Requirements

You'll need to have achieved, or be on track to achieve, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in one of the following subjects: Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Design (Mechanical), Integrated Engineering (Mechanical Pathway), Building Services Engineering, or a related discipline.

Many of our programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions. For this programme, you must be able to achieve and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), Security Check (SC), and Naval Nuclear Propulsion Programme Information (NNPPI) clearance. Under applicable national security legislation, this post may only be occupied by a sole UK national.

Location

Places on our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme for September 2027 are available in Devonport, Plymouth. Our business in Plymouth works in partnership with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and Royal Navy at HM Naval Base Devonport, providing through-life support for submarines, surface ships, and associated systems.

Application Process

Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and we may close applications earlier than advertised if there is high interest. We recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.

Please apply to one programme only. We are a Disability Confident Employer and offer support for adjustments or assistance at any stage. Contact accesshelp@babcockinternational.com to discuss your needs. We are happy to discuss flexible working at interview.