Radiation Protection Graduate Programme
// Role Summary
Join Cavendish Nuclear's Radiation Protection Graduate Programme to develop essential skills in a critical nuclear industry area, safeguarding people and environments while contributing to complex engineering projects.
// Key Responsibilities
- Gain hands-on experience in diverse radiation protection tasks, from decommissioning to facility operations.
- Work with experts to assess hazards, improve safety, and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Participate in a structured two-year programme with rotational placements and dedicated mentorship.
- Receive comprehensive development, including masterclasses and industry-standard training.
- Opportunity to progress to a Radiation Protection Consultant role post-programme.
- Requires BPSS and SC security clearance.
// Role Specification
About the Programme
Embark on a dynamic two-year journey with Cavendish Nuclear's Radiation Protection Graduate Programme. This is an exceptional opportunity to gain invaluable skills and experience in a vital sector of the nuclear industry. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of people and the environment while supporting some of the UK's most complex engineering endeavours.
What You'll Do
From the outset, you will contribute to significant projects. Your responsibilities may include:
- Supporting the decommissioning of redundant nuclear facilities.
- Assisting in the dismantling of retired submarines.
- Contributing to the safe operation and construction of nuclear facilities.
- Providing support to facilities that use or operate with radioactive materials.
You will learn from experienced radiation protection experts, gaining proficiency in assessing radiation hazards, recommending improvements, and ensuring adherence to regulatory compliance in both nuclear and non-nuclear industries. Collaboration with multi-disciplinary teams will involve drafting and implementing radiation protection policies, reviewing safety systems, evaluating workplace risks, recommending waste disposal practices, and assessing environmental impacts.
This role also involves providing consultancy support, preparing detailed reports, liaising with regulators, and identifying training needs to enhance radiation safety awareness.
Programme Structure and Development
The two-year programme is designed for breadth, depth, and clarity, featuring structured placements across Cavendish Nuclear. You will explore various facets of radiation protection, build real-world experience, and discover where your talents best fit. Supported by experienced mentors and peers, you will develop the technical expertise and personal confidence to shape your future career.
You will benefit from structured support, personalized training, and dedicated mentorship from day one. The programme includes access to the Graduate Development Programme with expert-led masterclasses and core training in radiation protection principles, supplemented by internal and external courses from organizations like the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Association of University Radiation Protection Officers (AURPO).
Career Progression
Upon successful completion of the programme, graduates are well-positioned to step into a Radiation Protection Consultant role at Cavendish Nuclear. You will contribute to protecting people, shaping policy, and delivering ambitious nuclear projects. Your development will continue with support for progression into more senior roles, guided by the Babcock Role Framework which outlines clear career pathways and development opportunities.
Rewards and Benefits
Cavendish Nuclear offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your development, wellbeing, and work-life balance.
- 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 We're Looking For
- You should have achieved, or be on track to achieve, an (Hons) degree in Physical Sciences, Natural Science, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Computer Science, or Maths.
- A postgraduate degree in Radiation and Environmental Protection, Safety Engineering, Nuclear Science, or Nuclear Engineering is desirable but not essential.
- The ability to achieve and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance is mandatory for this programme.
Location
This programme is based at Rivergate House, Newbury Business Park, Newbury. Flexibility is required as you may be asked to spend time in other locations for placements. While agile working is offered, expect to spend several days each week on-site. Your base location will be your long-term career base after completing the programme.
About Cavendish Nuclear
Cavendish Nuclear, a part of Babcock International Group's Nuclear Sector, provides critical nuclear solutions across clean energy, defence, and civil decommissioning markets. They are involved in a wide range of activities, from decommissioning redundant facilities to supporting the UK's continuous at sea deterrent and operating nuclear power plants, contributing to nuclear legacy cleanup and national security.
Application Information
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and may close early if high interest is received. It is recommended to apply as soon as possible. Please apply for only one programme. Cavendish Nuclear is a Disability Confident Employer and offers support for adjustments during the recruitment process. They are committed to an inclusive culture and welcome discussions about flexible working arrangements.