Systems Engineering Graduate Programme 2027

Programme Details

• Salary: Minimum £35,000. Salary is dependent on location, role and qualifications.
• Location: We offer placements in a variety of locations, including Plymouth, Bristol, Walsall in England, and Rosyth in Scotland.
• Programme start date: September 2027

What will you do on the programme?

• At Babcock, Systems Engineering is the glue that holds complex projects together. As a Graduate Systems Engineer, you’ll be at the centre of some of the UK’s most advanced engineering programmes - applying systems principles to ensure that every component, process and stakeholder aligns to deliver safe, effective and sustainable solutions.
• Your work will shape systems that matter. You could be involved in designing and integrating cutting-edge submarines, converting military vehicles for new operational roles, refurbishing naval ships to extend their service life, infrastructure to support the refit of nuclear submarines, developing secure satellite communication systems, or advancing next-generation nuclear power plants that support the UK’s net-zero goals. Each project presents unique systems challenges – and opportunities to make a real impact.
• 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’ll help bring structure to complexity - defining requirements, managing interfaces and supporting integration across multidisciplinary teams.
• Through practical experience and structured development, you’ll build the skills to engage with stakeholders, understand system needs, identify and mitigate risks, and ensure systems meet requirements and are ready for the real world.

How is the programme structured?

Over two years, you’ll rotate through placements every three to six months, giving you the opportunity to explore a broad range 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 collaborate with experienced professionals across a range of disciplines, which may include engineering design, software, mechanical, construction, and electrical engineering, as well as in project management, quality assurance, and supply chain.

This experience will help you build a strong foundation in systems 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’s waiting for you after the programme?

Once you complete the programme, you’ll move into a permanent role within our Engineering Function, where you can continue applying and expanding the skills you've developed. You’ll also have the opportunity to build on your progress toward professional registration, a recognised benchmark of engineering competence, which can support your journey into more advanced roles, such as Senior Engineer.

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
• 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?

• You'll need to have achieved, or be on track to achieve, a BEng, MEng, BSc, or MSc in a STEM discipline. We welcome applicants from a broad range of subjects, including Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and emerging technology fields such as AI, Machine Learning, Robotics, and Cybernetics.
• Many of our programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions, meaning your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or any residency you hold or have held may impact your eligibility. Restrictions may vary depending on the business area or location in which you work, so please refer to the relevant job advert for full details before applying.

Where will you be based?

Places on our 2027 Systems Engineering programme 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. 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:

• Interested in converting military vehicles and supporting frontline operations? Our Land placements across the UK (including Walsall and Plymouth) give you the opportunity to support the British Army and maintain emergency service fleets.
• Excited by the idea of supporting the design and maintenance of cutting-edge naval ships? Rosyth (Scotland) is home to our advanced manufacturing facility and could be your perfect match.
• Want to play a key role in the infrastructure that keeps submarines and surface ships operational? Devonport (Plymouth) is a key naval base where you can work directly with the Royal Navy.
• Fascinated by advanced technologies, or space and satellite systems? Mission Technologies (Bristol or Plymouth) is where innovation meets high-tech engineering.
• Ready to shape the future of maritime capability? Marine (Bristol or Plymouth) offers the opportunity to work on communications systems, electronic warfare capabilities and other technologies used across naval and maritime platforms.
• Keen on strategic design and support for submarines? Nuclear – Bristol focuses on cutting-edge design and sustainability projects with national impact.

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

About the Company

As a global organisation, Babcock provides countless opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career. To support your growth, we've introduced the Babcock Role Framework, which outlines roles, career pathways, and development opportunities. With every job mapped to these frameworks, you’ll have a transparent view of the steps needed to reach Senior Engineer and beyond.

Application process and important information

Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and if there’s a high level of interest in this programme, we may close applications earlier than advertised. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.

Please apply to one programme only. If we receive more than one application from you, we’ll assess the first one submitted. If your chosen programme becomes oversubscribed, we may contact you to discuss other programmes you could be eligible for.

We're a Disability Confident Employer. If you require additional support or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know when you apply. Our team will contact you after receiving your application to discuss your requirements and the support available.

We’re committed to building an inclusive culture where everyone’s free to thrive. We are happy to talk about flexible working – please ask about alternative patterns of work at interview.

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.