What is a Graduate Job?

What can you expect from a graduate job?

A graduate job won’t rotate you through different departments as a graduate scheme does, but that doesn’t mean that every day looks the same. Take me, for example: one day I’m creating a scene plan for a filming day and attending client meetings in the afternoon, and the next day I’m writing blogs. It varies.

You’ll find graduate jobs in all sorts of industries (more on that later), so that variety changes depending on the industry you’ve chosen, even if you’re specialising.

Training isn’t as structured as it would be on a scheme, but you won’t be left on your own to figure it out. There’ll be lots of opportunities to develop your skills throughout your role. These can include:

• Training courses

• Mentoring

• Personal development programmes

• Team away days

• Conferences

• Special guest talks at the office.

I’ve had amazing mentorship from my manager, and it’s made a real difference to how quickly I’ve picked things up.

Even though you'll likely work in one team, you’ll end up collaborating with people across the whole company. I’ve worked with so many different people on projects I didn't originally think involved so many people. I’ve been in meetings with the finance team, engineers and even the CEO.

There’s also the fun aspect to grad jobs too. Much like graduate schemes, you’ll get involved in the culture side of things. Since joining my company, I’ve been to two summer parties, a Christmas party and several after-work drinks. 

You won’t be “the grad” forever, either. Graduate jobs tend to focus on getting you really good at what you do so you can move into the more senior parts of your role, rather than shuffling you around every few months.

Whether you want to become more senior in your field or become a manager one day, graduate jobs are a great way in - you just have to be really proactive.

How long does a graduate job last?

Graduate jobs are full-time permanent positions, and there’s no real end date like there is for most graduate schemes. 

That being said, most people don’t stay in their graduate jobs forever and move on to other companies or industries. With a graduate scheme, you’ll be with your company for up to four years before you move on (or stay!)

Interested in a graduate scheme and want to know more? Click below.

Do graduate jobs require degrees or work experience?

You do need a degree for a graduate job; it’s what makes it a graduate role, not just any other entry-level role.

Grades aren’t as important as you might think. According to the Institute of Student Employers, fewer than 50% of employers actually require a 2:1 qualification. While some employers prefer a degree in a related subject, many accept students from any degree background and care more about the skills you bring.

In terms of experience, most employers don't expect you to walk in with all experience in the world. I didn’t have loads of experience either: I actually started as a campaign assistant. The whole point of a graduate job is to build that experience.

There are no strict rules on when you can apply, either. Some employers ask specifically for fresh graduates, but many don’t specify a time frame. It’s always worth reading the job description first.

Want to find out which companies are the best to work for? Our Top 50 Graduate Employers are a really helpful way of working out where to apply. They’re chosen by students, too.

Graduate Job Reviews

Ever wondered what it’s like day-to-day? Here’s what these graduates said:

My day-to-day role involves collaborating with the wider project team to develop, maintain and update the P6 Programme. From the very start of my graduate role, I was welcomed into the wider planning team, with members eager to meet and introduce themselves. Operational Planner, Balfour Beatty

As a Platform Engineer in Client Engineering, I work with clients to understand their technical challenges and help develop Proofs of Concept using relevant IBM technologies. I really enjoy the variety of the role, as every client has a different problem to solve and requires a different approach. I also enjoy being trusted with significant responsibility early on and having the opportunity to work across a broad range of technologies and projects. Platform Engineer, IBM

We have loads more graduate reviews; they’re a really helpful way to get a feel of what working for an employer is like. I found them super helpful when I started my job hunt.

How much do graduate jobs pay?

On average, graduates earn around £33,600 a year, though it can vary depending on your employer, the industry you’re in, and where you’re located. London-based jobs tend to pay a lot more than regional ones. 

Pay can also vary within the industry you’re interested in. So it’s worth looking at different employers.

Outside of that, you’re a full-time employee. Meaning you’ll get a whole bunch of benefits, including holiday and sick pay. Some employers might also offer benefits like gym memberships, health insurance, and access to therapy. You’ll usually find their benefits in the job listing.

Is it hard to get a graduate job?

The market is tough right now. But that doesn’t mean you won’t get a graduate role. It does mean that it’s really worth taking your applications seriously and making sure you’re tailoring each one for the jobs you apply for.

Some industries are more competitive than others, too. Roles in consulting, IT, finance and law tend to have a lot more applications, but you’ll find less competitive roles in construction and the public sector.

I applied for loads of roles before I landed my graduate job. A job rejection or the fact that it’s taking a minute to find one doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. The market is genuinely crowded right now.

Want to find out more about what you can do?

What counts as an entry-level job?

Entry-level jobs are basically roles that don’t expect you to have previous experience. You’ll be trained up and learn as you go. A graduate job is a type of entry-level job, but asks for a degree.

Not every entry-level role says ‘graduate’ in the title though. Employers often use words like junior, trainee, associate or early careers instead (and some are aimed at people who didn’t go to university). 

Just keep in mind that some associate roles can mean mid-level in industries like law or finance. So always read the job description.

If you’re starting your job hunt, it’s worth looking at roles with those words, too. You never know what you’ll find.

How long are you classed as a graduate?

Can’t live that uni life forever, but there’s no official cut off. Each employer decides what ‘recent graduate’ means for their own roles. Some ask for you to have graduated in the past two years, some might not mention it at all. It’s always worth asking.

When should you apply for a graduate job?

Honestly, whenever you want. That’s one of the best parts of applying for a graduate job - you don’t have any timeframes.

Graduate jobs are advertised all year round - though most advertise between September and December - and the application process tends to move a little quicker, too. It usually involves sending off a CV and cover letter, then you’ll be invited to one interview rather than multiple stages (although some might).