Radioactive Waste Management Graduate Programme
// Role Summary
Embark on a two-year graduate programme in Radioactive Waste Management, contributing to the safe and sustainable handling of nuclear materials across diverse projects. Develop your expertise through structured training, mentorship, and varied placements within the Defence and Civil Nuclear sectors.
// Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the safe, compliant, and sustainable handling of radioactive materials.
- Gain experience across the full lifecycle of radioactive waste, from characterisation to disposal.
- Work with multidisciplinary teams on projects at nuclear power stations and new waste treatment facilities.
- Undertake a two-year programme with rotations every 3-6 months.
- Receive structured support, tailored technical training, and mentorship.
- Requires a science degree in specific fields and eligibility for BPSS and SC security clearance.
// Role Specification
Radioactive Waste Management Graduate Programme
Join our comprehensive two-year Radioactive Waste Management Graduate Programme, designed to immerse you in the critical work of safely and sustainably handling radioactive materials. You will play a vital role throughout the entire lifecycle of radioactive waste, from initial assessment and treatment planning through to packaging, transport, and long-term disposal. Your contributions will be essential in shaping environmental impact assessments, developing case reports, and supporting disposal strategies that adhere to stringent regulatory and environmental standards.
This programme offers the opportunity to collaborate with diverse, multidisciplinary teams on a variety of impactful nuclear projects. You could be involved in projects at nuclear power stations, contribute to feasibility studies for new waste treatment facilities, or assist clients in optimising disposal options. Engaging with stakeholders to develop practical mitigation strategies will also be a key aspect of your work. Projects vary in complexity, ranging from large-scale, multi-disciplinary programmes to smaller consultancy assignments involving direct client interaction. Each placement is crafted to present new challenges and deepen your understanding of radioactive waste management, ensuring you make a tangible contribution to real-world outcomes that protect communities, the environment, and future generations.
Programme Structure and Development
The Radioactive Waste Graduate Programme spans two years, providing both breadth and depth of experience through rotations every three to six months. These placements allow you to explore various projects and teams within the Defence and Civil Nuclear sectors, broadening your experience and professional network. You will benefit from structured support, personalised training, and dedicated mentorship from day one. Joining our Graduate Development Programme includes expert-led masterclasses and tailored technical training in areas like waste management, environmental protection, health physics, and radiological safety, all customised to support your individual development needs and professional institute membership aspirations.
Career Progression
Upon successful completion of the programme, you will transition into a permanent role within Radioactive Waste Management, with pathways to grow as a specialist. Your development continues with support for advancement into more senior roles and increased responsibility, guided by the Babcock Role Framework which outlines clear career progression opportunities.
Rewards and Benefits
We offer a comprehensive package to support your development, wellbeing, and work-life balance. This includes a minimum starting salary of £35,000, a minimum of 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays, generous pension and employee share schemes, and flexible benefits. Wellbeing support is extensive, covering mental, physical, financial, and social aspects through services like an Employee Assistance Programme, digital GP service, and health checks. You will also have opportunities for STEM outreach and volunteering.
What You Need to Apply
Candidates should have achieved, or be on track to achieve, a science degree in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, Environmental Science, Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Technology, or Biochemistry. Please note that 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) and Security Check (SC) clearance.
Locations and Working Arrangements
Positions are available in Warrington, Bristol, and Newbury within our Cavendish Nuclear business. While you will join a specific location, placements at different UK sites are possible. We offer agile working with some flexibility, but expect several days on-site each week. Your starting location will be your permanent base upon programme completion. Joining Cavendish Nuclear means engaging in significant engineering projects focused on waste management, decommissioning, and environmental enhancement initiatives around client sites, contributing to the UK's nuclear legacy and future energy security.
Application Information
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is recommended as the programme may close early due to high interest. Please apply to only one programme. We are a Disability Confident Employer and offer support for recruitment process adjustments. We are committed to building an inclusive culture and are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements.