Engineering Graduate Schemes

What is an engineering graduate scheme?

Graduate schemes in the engineering industry aren’t just your standard entry-level jobs. Designed to help you fire up your career in the industry, these structured training programmes will transform you from a fresh graduate into an experienced engineer in just one to three years.

During that time, you’ll rotate through several different roles, helping you gain a well-rounded understanding of your field and decide where you want to take your career. Most schemes also support graduates in working towards professional accreditation, such as becoming a Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Most schemes come with mentorship, access to industry experts and professional development support to help you grow the most you can. 

Types of engineering graduate schemes

One of the best parts about engineering is that you don’t need to fit into a specific box. Whether you’re passionate about sustainability, fascinated by robotics or keen to tackle large-scale infrastructure projects, there’s a graduate scheme for you. 

In this vast industry, you could find yourself working in one of these areas… 

• Aerospace Engineering

• Biomedical Engineering

• Chemical Engineering

• Civil Engineering

• Electrical Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering 

• Software Engineering

Not sure you want to stay in engineering? With skills like complex problem-solving, creative thinking and project planning in your locker, you’ll be valuable to any employer.

These employers span a range of sectors including aerospace, defence, manufacturing, automotive, transport, sustainability and civil infrastructure, so whatever your passion, there’s likely a scheme for you.

Are engineering graduate schemes worth it?

A graduate scheme is a stepping stone to success, with companies using them to train their next generation of engineers. Doing an engineering graduate scheme is amazing for getting that hands-on experience you didn't get at uni. It’s also great as you can:

Here’s what a grad with NESO said about their graduate scheme:

How competitive are graduate schemes?

Graduate schemes in engineering do tend to be quite competitive due to their popularity. So, it’s best to start your search early and to keep trying.

What are the entry requirements for an engineering grad scheme?

You’ll usually find that employers want to take on graduates with at least a 2:2 in a relevant degree, but some may ask for a 2:1.

Above all, they’ll look for graduates who have the skills their business needs to keep pace in a rapidly changing world, including technical skills like 3D CAD, and soft skills like collaboration.

How much do graduate engineers earn?

This will depend on your employer and your location. If you’re based in London, you will normally get paid a bit more to help cover your living costs. Sometimes, this is the same for other major cities like Edinburgh, Manchester and Birmingham. 

You can expect to be making £37,000 a year, with paid sick leave and holiday. It’s always best to check with the employer to see what they are willing to pay.

Many graduate schemes also include perks like sign-on bonuses, relocation support, travel allowances, professional membership fees and free training.

When should I apply?

Most engineering graduate schemes open applications in September–November of your final year, with closing dates in early spring, but many fill up way before the deadline.

And, there are some opportunities that open applications much later, so don’t stress too much if it’s already Winter. Also, know that you can normally apply for grad schemes up to two years after you graduate. 

Here’s how to stand out:

• Get Experience. If you’ve completed a placement, internship or part-time role in engineering, shout about it! Graduate recruiters love candidates who already understand the industry.

• Tailor Your Application. Match your CV and cover letter to the role, highlight your technical skills, and talk about your interest in the specific work the company does.

• Prepare to Talk Tech. Interviews often include technical questions or problem-solving exercises. Be ready to explain your projects, coding experience, or understanding of specific systems or software.

• Show Your Passion. Engineers are problem-solvers. Let your curiosity, creativity and drive shine through, especially if you’ve worked on side projects, volunteered, or built something in your own time.

If you’re serious about engineering, a graduate scheme is one of the best ways to launch your career. You’ll learn fast, earn well and gain the confidence to thrive in an industry that needs innovative, resilient thinkers now more than ever.