Babcock
graduate scheme

Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

Job description

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.

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

What we are looking for

  • 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 - GOV.UK.

Accepted degree subjects

  • electronic and electrical engineering
  • transport engineering
  • mechanical engineering

Additional job details

Location
Argyll and Bute
Bristol
East Riding of Yorkshire
Leicester
Newbury
Plymouth
Warrington
Salary
£35,000

Salary is dependent on location, role and qualifications.

Contract, dates and working times

Full-time

How 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.

Click Apply to start your application now. This job will be available on Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ»ÆÆ¬ until 16 October 2025

Don't forget to mention Ä¢¹½ÊÓÆµ»ÆÆ¬ to employers when you contact them.

Closing date:  16 October 2025

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