Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

Location: We offer placements in a range of locations across England, including Plymouth, Bristol, Warrington, Leicester and Humberside, and more, as well as in Scotland at HM Naval Base Clyde, Rosyth and Glasgow.

What will you do on the programme?

Join our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme, and you’ll have the opportunity to work on some of the UK’s most impactful engineering projects. This is your chance to contribute to engineering solutions that help safeguard tomorrow while developing the technical expertise and leadership skills needed to thrive in your career.

At Babcock, you’ll support work across various stages of the engineering lifecycle – from technology innovation and concept design to production, commissioning, in-service support, and decommissioning.

You could be designing cutting-edge submarines, converting military vehicles, refurbishing ships, or advancing next-generation nuclear power plants that support the UK’s net-zero goals. The possibilities are incredibly diverse.

You’ll work alongside a global network of engineers, technicians, and specialists who share your passion for innovation and precision. Whether you're leading design reviews, overseeing stress analysis, or managing the integration of mechanical systems into high-performance platforms, your expertise will help ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of critical national infrastructure.

How is the programme structured?

Over two years, you’ll rotate through placements every three to six months, giving you the chance to explore a variety of projects and teams. These rotations offer opportunities to broaden your experience – and some may even take you to different locations – helping you build your professional network and deepen your understanding of how the business operates.

Along the way, you’ll build a strong foundation in mechanical engineering, while gradually taking on greater responsibilities, such as leading small teams and overseeing projects.

As you progress, you'll have the chance to align your placements with your interests and career goals, helping you build relevant experience in areas that matter most to you.

How do we develop and support you?

From day one, you’ll receive structured support, personalised training, and dedicated mentorship to help you excel throughout your programme and beyond.

You’ll join our Graduate Development Programme, featuring expert-led masterclasses on communication, personal branding, resilience, and wellbeing.

To support your journey toward Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status, we offer guidance and cover all associated fees.

What rewards and benefits will you get?

We want you to feel supported, valued and excited about what’s ahead. That’s why we offer a comprehensive package designed to support your development, your wellbeing and your life outside of work too.

In addition to a minimum starting salary of £35,000, you’ll benefit from:

• A minimum of 25 days of holiday plus bank holidays, with agile working options subject to discussion with your manager
• Generous pension and employee share schemes
• Flexible benefits, including cycle to work scheme, discounts
• Wellbeing support, covering mental, physical, financial, and social wellbeing, with services like our Employee Assistance Programme, digital GP service, and health checks.

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

What do you need to apply?

• We accept engineering degrees in the following disciplines: Mechanical, Structural, Materials, Motorsport, Mechatronics, Engine Systems and Welding. Our preference is that your degree is also accredited by the relevant institution.
• Many of our graduate programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions which mean that your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or residency you hold or have held may impact which programmes you are eligible for. For this programme, you must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available on the government website - United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels - GOV.UK.

Where will you be based?

Places on our Mechanical Engineering graduate programme for Autumn 2026 are available across a wide range of business areas and locations throughout the UK.

While you’ll join a specific business area and location, placements at different sites across the UK are possible. Agile working is supported, but you’ll be expected to work on-site multiple times a week. We encourage flexibility and openness to relocation throughout the programme and will consider your personal circumstances when arranging placements.

Not sure which business area to apply for? Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

• Curious about the UK's nuclear future? At Cavendish Nuclear, you’ll find diverse placement opportunities across the UK (including Warrington, Bristol, Leicester, Humberside, Glasgow, Somerset, and Suffolk), giving you the chance to work on projects that protect our nation, secure our energy supply, and support our journey to net zero.
• Interested in converting military vehicles and supporting frontline operations? Our Land placements across the UK give you the opportunity to support the British Army.
• Excited by the idea of designing and maintaining cutting-edge naval ships? Rosyth (Scotland) is home to our advanced manufacturing facility and could be your perfect match.
• Interested in the commercial marine industry? Our LGE business in Rosyth (Scotland), delivers world-class, environmentally-focused cargo handling and fuel gas solutions – and could be your ideal fit.
• Passionate about supporting submarines and surface ships? Devonport (Plymouth) and Clyde (Scotland) are key naval bases where you can work directly with the Royal Navy.
• Fascinated by advanced technologies, or space and satellite systems? Mission Systems (Bristol, Plymouth, Hawthorn or Oakhanger) is where innovation meets high-tech engineering.

No matter where you start, you’ll gain valuable experience – and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Ready to apply?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if we receive a high volume of interest. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we strongly recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.

Explore our brochure here for more information on graduate opportunities.

How to apply

To apply for this role and to find out more, please click on the apply button. Please note that applications may close before the application deadline, so apply early to avoid disappointment.