Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

Programme title: Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

Salary: Minimum 35000. Salary is dependent on location role and qualifications.

Location: Bristol Plymouth Hawthorn or Oakhanger

Application closing date: 16 October 2025

Programme start date: September 2026

Role ID: 66850

What will you do on the programme

Join our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme and youll have the opportunity to work on some of the UKs 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 youll 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 UKs net-zero goals. The possibilities are incredibly diverse.

Youll work alongside a global network of engineers technicians and specialists who share your passion for innovation and precision. Whether youre 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 youll 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 youll build a strong foundation in mechanical engineering while gradually taking on greater responsibilities such as leading small teams and overseeing projects.

As you progress youll 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 youll receive structured support personalised training and dedicated mentorship to help you excel throughout your programme and beyond.

Youll 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 whats ahead. Thats 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 35000 youll 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.

Youll 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 at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels - .

Where will you be based

Places on our Mechanical Engineering graduate programme for Autumn 2026 are available in our Mission Systems business.

If youre interested in advanced manufacturing and disruptive technologies Mission Systems is where youll thrive. Based in Bristol Plymouth Hawthorn or Oakhanger you could be working on the design and delivery of advanced communications systems electronic warfare capabilities or supporting satellite operations for national defence. This is a hub for innovation where engineers help shape the future of defence technology and support global clients across land sea air and space.

While youll join a specific business area and location placements at different sites across the UK are possible. Agile working is supported but youll 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.

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.