Defence Industries Graduate Jobs

Graduate Naval Architect role supporting vessel design, stability and hydrodynamic assessments, structural evaluations, engineering calculations, CAD modelling, and technical documentation across maritime and defence projects.Company DescriptionNavantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, security and energy transition ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.Job DescriptionAs a Graduate Naval Architect, you will support the basic design, analysis and development of naval and commercial marine vessels across a range of shipbuilding, repair, conversion and marine engineering projects. Working within a multidisciplinary engineering team, you will assist with vessel design activities, stability assessments, weight management, structural evaluations and technical documentation to ensure designs are safe, efficient and compliant with customer, regulatory and classification society requirements.The role provides an opportunity to develop specialist naval architecture knowledge and practical engineering experience while contributing to the delivery of complex maritime and defence programmes. Through mentoring, structured development and practical project experience, you will work towards achieving professional registration and Chartered Engineer status through an appropriate UK Engineering Council licensed institution.The RoleSupport the development of naval architecture and ship design solutions for new build, repair, conversion and modernisation projects.Assist in the preparation of engineering calculations, technical reports and design documentation.Support vessel stability assessments, including intact and damage stability analyses.Attend and support Senior Naval Architects during inclining experiments, lightweight surveys, sea trials and other vessel assurance activities.Assist with weight and centre of gravity calculations, weight monitoring and reporting activities.Support the preparation of trim and stability books and associated vessel documentation.Contribute to ship hydrodynamic and performance assessments, including propulsion, resistance and seakeeping studies.Assist with the development of hull form designs, structural arrangements and general arrangement layouts.Support the preparation of docking, mooring and lifting calculations and associated procedures.Produce and maintain engineering drawings, models and documentation using CAD and specialist naval architecture software.Participate in design reviews and technical meetings, providing engineering support to project teams.Assist with ensuring compliance with Classification Society Rules, IMO regulations and customer requirements.Attend vessels, shipyards and project sites to support inspections, design verification activities, production liaison and commissioning support where required.QualificationsMEng degree (or expected degree) in Naval Architecture, Ship Science, Ocean Engineering, Marine Engineering or a related engineering discipline.Membership of, or willingness to work towards membership of, the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) or another relevant professional engineering institution, with the aim of achieving Chartered Engineer status.Understanding of fundamental naval architecture principles, including stability, hydrostatics, vessel arrangements and ship structures.Ability to learn and adapt to specialist naval architecture, engineering and design software packages.Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Eligible to work in the UK.Ability to obtain and maintain the required security clearance where necessary.Additional InformationThis is an opportunity to start your career in a unique industry, working on complex shipbuilding programmes that require precision, coordination and technical excellence.You’ll gain practical experience, receive structured development and build skills that will support your long-term career in production planning, manufacturing or operations.

Posted 2 days ago

Train as an Aerospace Manufacturing Machinist, gaining hands-on experience operating CNC and conventional machines to manufacture precision aircraft gearbox and transmission components.Job Description:At Leonardo, we have a fantastic new opportunity for an Aerospace Manufacturing Machinist Apprentice (Level 3). Leonardo is a global high-tech company and one of the key players in Aerospace, Defence and Security. Headquartered in Italy, Leonardo has over 45,000 employees, of which 7,000 are based in the UK.As one of the leading helicopter manufacturers in the world, Leonardo Helicopters is part of the multi-national Leonardo Group of world class engineering companies.Leonardo Helicopters designs, develops and manufactures an unrivalled range of the most advanced helicopters, rotary wing technology, also developing mission and performance critical systems. Our helicopters are used extensively in civil and military roles worldwide. Primary operations are in the UK, Italy, Poland and the USA.Programme DescriptionOur manufacturing Machining Apprenticeship is suited for those who are interested in the practical (hands-on) elements of engineering. Over the duration of the scheme you will have the opportunity to rotate across a number of placements, using different machines in each area (mainly CNC). You will learn how to set up and operate each one, with the ultimate aim of moving you into a final placement area/machine based on the skills displayed during the apprenticeship.What you'll get• Flexible working: We offer our employees the time and flexibility they need to enjoy a balanced life through flexible hours and part time options• Custom working: The role may be a mixture of home based and onsite• Flexible benefits: Our company-funded approach to flexible benefits allows employees to make choices appropriate for them. Each employee has access to a wide choice of lifestyle, health and wellbeing options best suited to their individual lifestyle goals.• Network groups: To demonstrate our ongoing commitment to diversity & inclusion we have network groups for:- Carers (employees caring for families or friends)- Enable (supporting people with disabilities)- Equalise (development of a gender balanced workforce)- Pride (promoting equality for all LGBTQ+ individuals)- We also work in partnership with AFBE (Association for Black and Minority Ethnic Engineers).• Training: Free access to Coursera which provides more than 4,000 online courses• Continuous Learning: You will be supported in your ongoing professional development though training and mentoring• Investors in People: We are proud recipients of the Investors in People Gold Award• Employee Assistance Programme: Providing free and confidential mental health support• Generous annual and flex leave in addition to bank holidaysWhat you will doThe apprenticeship will start with an Induction into Leonardo, followed by a team building event incorporating all Trainee starts. There will also be a Yeovil College Induction to ensure that apprenticeship requirements and expectations are fully established.The structure of the Apprenticeship programme will be as follows:Year 1: Full time at Yeovil College to complete a Level 2 Vocational qualification in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (practical/workshop based) and a BTEC Level 2 Diploma in machining (knowledge/classroom based).Post-Christmas, there is a possibility of working on-site in your placement at Leonardo Helicopters for 1 day a week.Year 2: Work placements at Leonardo Helicopters (4 days per week) and starting the Level 3 Vocational (work related) qualification in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering. Attend Yeovil College (1 day per week) to start the Level 3 Diploma in Machining qualification (this includes mathematics to AS/A2 level).Year 3: Work placements at Leonardo Helicopters (4 days per week) and continuing the Level 3 Vocational (work related) qualification in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering. Attend Yeovil College (1 day per week) to continuethe Level 3 Diploma in Machining qualification (this includes mathematics to AS/A2 level).Year 4: Work placements at Leonardo Helicopters (5 days per week) and completing the Level 3 Vocational (work related) qualification in Advanced Manufacturing Engineering.Each Apprentice on this route will need to complete an End Point Assessment as defined in the Apprenticeship Standard, this will take place in the final months of the program.Throughout the apprenticeship apprentices will be placed in some or all of the following departmental areas within the Transmissions Centre of Excellence:Gear Shop: This area manufactures the internal gear components for aircraft gearboxes. The components travel through a number of different processes, each machine would cover a different part of the manufacturing process.Machine shop: This area primarily focuses on the manufacture/finishing of Gearbox housing & ancillary components for aircraft gearboxes (i.e. drive shafts, etc.). The work in these areas are completed on various lathes (CNC & conventional lathes) and is highly tolerance critical.

Posted 4 days ago

A graduate R&D role focused on testing, commissioning and validating linear accelerators and their subsystems for advanced security scanning technology.OverviewRapiscan Systems is a global leader in detection technology, providing advanced cargo and vehicle inspection solutions for ports, borders, military sites, high-threat facilities, and checkpoints. Our innovative systems help combat terrorism, drug smuggling, illegal immigration, and trade fraud. We are committed to delivering uncompromising quality and best-in-class imaging performance. Role OverviewAs a Graduate Accelerator Scientist, you will join our Cargo Research Team, supporting the transition of innovative technologies into the security scanning market. Your primary focus will be on commissioning, verifying, and validating linear accelerators and their subsystems. You will also contribute to product quality assurance, root cause analysis, training, and demonstrations.ResponsibilitiesCommission, verify, and validate linear accelerators and associated components.Provide technical feedback on accelerator performance to the research team and wider business unit.Maintain accurate records of system and subsystem testing using appropriate tracking tools; support documentation release into Agile.Collaborate on design and development activities aligned with the R&D roadmap.Uphold company values: Integrity, Innovation, Accountability, Teamwork.Adhere to the company’s Code of Ethics and Conduct.QualificationsDegree or postgraduate qualification in Physics or Engineering, with an experimental background.Proficiency in Excel and MATLAB for data analysis.Strong ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.Desirable:Experience with test equipment (e.g., vector network analysers, oscilloscopes).Exposure to fast-paced product development environments.Knowledge of high-power RF systems, high-voltage power supplies, and/or beam dynamics.Understanding of safe working practices for particle accelerators and related subsystems.

Posted 9 days ago

Graduate role supporting production planning, scheduling, materials, work orders and coordination in a shipbuilding/manufacturing environment. You’ll develop skills in SAP PP/MM, Excel, planning and production workflows.Company DescriptionNavantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.Job DescriptionAre you a recent graduate looking to build a career in production planning, work preparation, scheduling or material management?Navantia UK is recruiting a Graduate Production Planner to join our Belfast team and support the planning and coordination activities that enable shipyard production execution. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment while developing technical, analytical and systems capability.You’ll work alongside experienced Production, Work Preparation, Material Management and Scheduling colleagues, gaining exposure to how complex shipbuilding workflows are planned, sequenced and delivered.You don’t need to be an expert when you join us. We’ll provide training and support to help you build foundational capability in SAP PP/MM, production planning processes, work package readiness and technical interpretation.What You’ll Be DoingAs a Graduate Production Planner, you’ll support the preparation, control and coordination of the information required to keep production moving. Your work will help ensure materials, work orders, drawings and technical documentation are ready when needed.You’ll gain experience across:Production Planning & Work PreparationPreparing, updating and controlling production planning and work preparation information.Creating and maintaining work orders, routings, reports and readiness trackers.Material ManagementCarrying out material availability checks and tracking constraints.Interpreting bills of material and technical information for planning purposes.Scheduling & CoordinationPreparing data for scheduling and production planning meetings.Updating actions, trackers and progress information.Coordinating with Production, Work Preparation, Material Management and Planning colleagues.Technical & Systems DevelopmentLearning SAP PP/MM and core production planning processes.Developing understanding of production workflows, load-capacity principles and system architecture.What We’re Looking ForWe’re looking for graduates who are organised, curious and eager to learn — people who enjoy working with data, solving problems and supporting operational delivery.QualificationsYou’ll NeedA degree (or equivalent) in Engineering, Project Management, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Business Operations or a related discipline.Strong interest in production planning, work preparation, materials or shipbuilding operations.Good numerical, analytical and organisational skills.Ability to interpret basic technical information or willingness to develop this skill.Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.A learning mindset and willingness to develop SAP capability.It Would Be Great If You Also HaveExposure to SAP, ERP systems or manufacturing planning.Understanding of shipbuilding or manufacturing environments.Placement or project experience involving planning, materials, production or data analysis. What You’ll GainJoining Navantia as a Graduate Production Planner will give you the opportunity to:Build foundational capability in SAP PP/MM and production planning systems.Gain hands-on experience supporting real production workflows and shopfloor execution.Develop skills in planning, scheduling, materials, technical interpretation and data accuracy.Work alongside experienced professionals across multiple production-related functions.Build a strong foundation for progression into professional-level planning roles.Who Will Succeed in This Role?We’re looking for someone who is:Detail-focusedOrganisedCuriousCollaborativeProactiveA clear communicatorMost importantly, we’re looking for someone with the enthusiasm and potential to learn.Why Navantia?This is an opportunity to start your career in a unique industry, working on complex shipbuilding programmes that require precision, coordination and technical excellence.You’ll gain practical experience, receive structured development and build skills that will support your long-term career in production planning, manufacturing or operations.

Posted 10 days ago

Graduate BMO Analyst supporting shipbuilding and defence projects through project management, cost control, risk management, and data analysis.Company DescriptionNavantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.Job DescriptionAre you a recent graduate looking to build a career in project management, business management, project controls or data analysis?Navantia is looking for a Graduate Business Management Office (BMO) Analyst to join our team in Belfast.This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting major shipbuilding and defence programmes while developing a broad range of commercial, analytical and project management skills.You’ll work alongside experienced Project Managers, Project Controllers, Cost Controllers and senior stakeholders, gaining exposure to how complex programmes are planned, monitored and delivered.You don't need to be an expert when you join us. We’ll provide training and support to help you develop your skills, including training in SAP, project controls, Earned Value Management (EVM) and reporting tools.What You'll Be DoingAs part of the Business Management Office, you’ll have the opportunity to rotate across different areas of the team and build experience in a range of disciplines, including:Project ManagementSupporting Project Managers with the planning and coordination of project activities.Helping maintain project schedules, action logs and delivery plans.Supporting project meetings, tracking actions and monitoring progress.Helping prepare project reports, presentations and management information.Project Controls & PerformanceSupporting project teams with performance monitoring and reporting.Working with project data to identify trends, variances and potential issues.Supporting Earned Value Management (EVM) activities.Helping monitor project performance against agreed cost and schedule baselines.Cost ManagementSupporting budget monitoring, forecasting and cost reporting.Analysing project expenditure and financial information.Maintaining cost trackers and performance dashboards.Helping prepare monthly performance reports.Risk & Opportunity ManagementSupporting project risk and opportunity registers.Tracking mitigation actions and supporting risk reviews.Helping identify emerging risks and issues.Data & Continuous ImprovementUsing tools such as Microsoft Excel and Power BI to analyse data and create reports.Supporting the development of dashboards and performance metrics.Helping improve processes, reporting and data quality across the BMO function.What We're Looking ForWe're looking for graduates who are curious, analytical and keen to learn and who want to develop a career working on complex projects.QualificationsYou’ll needA degree (or equivalent) in Project Management, Business, Engineering, Finance, Mathematics, Data Analytics or a related subject.To be a recent graduate or have up to 2 years' relevant experience, including placements or internships.Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.Good numerical ability and attention to detail.Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.Strong written and verbal communication skills.The ability to organise your workload and manage competing priorities.The ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.A proactive attitude and enthusiasm for learning new skills and systems.It Would Be Great If You Also HaveYou don't need all of the following, but experience or knowledge in any of these areas would be beneficial:Power BI or similar data visualisation tools.Project management principles or methodologies.Project controls, Earned Value Management, planning or cost management.SAP, ERP or other business systems.Data analysis and presenting information to stakeholders.What You'll GainJoining the BMO Graduate Programme will give you the opportunity to:Gain experience across project management, project controls, cost management and risk management.Work alongside experienced professionals on major shipbuilding and defence programmes.Develop your analytical, commercial and project management skills.Receive formal and on-the-job training in SAP, EVM, project controls and reporting tools.Gain experience working with senior stakeholders and multidisciplinary teams.Develop a broad understanding of how complex programmes are planned, controlled and delivered.Build a strong foundation for a long-term career within the industry.Who Will Succeed in This Role?We're looking for someone who is:Analytical – You enjoy working with information, numbers and data and can identify trends and solve problems.Organised – You can manage your time, prioritise tasks and keep track of deadlines.Curious – You want to understand how things work and aren't afraid to ask questions.Collaborative – You enjoy working with different people and contributing as part of a team.Proactive – You take ownership of your work and look for ways to improve.A strong communicator – You can present information clearly and confidently to different audiences.Most importantly, we're looking for someone with the potential and enthusiasm to learn and develop.Why Navantia?This is an opportunity to start your career in a unique industry, working alongside experienced professionals on complex shipbuilding and defence programmes.You'll gain practical experience, receive structured training and develop skills that will support your career long after the graduate programme has finished.

Posted 10 days ago

Support the design, development, testing, and documentation of aerospace electrical engineering systems while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and contributing to defence technology projects.L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.Our Brighton business is moving to a new location in 2027. The new site is expected to be located in either Shoreham, Burgess Hill or Horsham and will be within a 15-minute drive of our current site.About this opportunity and L3Harris UKOperating at 11 sites in the United Kingdom, L3Harris supports Britain's mission to secure and strengthen the country by delivering sovereign innovation across the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains.L3Harris in Brighton are part of our Release Systems & Antennas division operating in the Aerospace domain. For over 70 years, L3Harris has designed and developed industry-leading carriage and release systems for fighter, rotary-wing and unmanned platforms and we design, manufacture and test a large portion of our release systems portfolio in our Brighton facility which offers 48,500 square feet of manufacturing space. Our mission-critical release systems equipment is on most major airborne fighter platforms worldwide, including the F-35, along with other aircraft like the Gripen and Typhoon.Please note, our Brighton business is moving to a new location in 2027. The new site is expected to be located in either Shoreham, Burgess Hill or Horsham and will be within a 15-minute drive of our current site.We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Graduate Electrical Engineer with broad theoretical job knowledge to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will work under general direction and guidance within standard processes for non-routine tasks. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to systems and process changes in work routines, working towards achieving operational targets that impact team results within the Electrical Engineering function.A few of our employee benefits are:Hybrid working where possible, three days onsite per week upon successful completion of 3-month probationary period.Half day finish on a Friday25 days holiday per year (plus bank holidays), increasing with long service and with the opportunity to buy/sell up to 5 daysPrivate medical insurance with optional family coverPension scheme of up to 8% employer contributionLife Assurance 4x salary (flexible up to 10x)Group income protectionFlexible opt-in extras such as a health care cash plan, dental insurance, gym membership, critical illness cover, cycle to work scheme, travel insurance and electric car schemeEmployee Family Assistance Program providing mental health and wellbeing supportProfessional membership reimbursement (discretionary)What the role will involveThe responsibilities of your role will include the following:Assist in the design, development, and testing of engineering projects.Work under general direction and guidance to perform non-routine tasks within standard processes.Communicate with team members to explain and interpret information.Contribute to changes in systems and processes in work routines to improve efficiency and effectiveness.Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand project requirements and objectives.Create and update technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and operational procedures.Perform data analysis and troubleshoot issues to improve performance and reliability.Participate in project meetings and contribute innovative ideas to optimise processes.Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality assurance guidelines.Provide technical support and assistance to senior engineers and team members.Stay updated with industry trends and advancements in engineering technology.What you’ll bring The role requires the following experience and skills:Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or a related field.Broad theoretical knowledge of engineering principles, practices, and tools.Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work in a team-oriented environment.Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines effectively.Eagerness to learn and adapt to new challenges and environments.Important to knowDue to the nature of our work many our roles require a UK nationality and the ability to obtain a security clearance. Applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment must meet the requirement of right to work in the UK and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information and will be subject to government security checks.

Posted 28 days ago

Support the creation and maintenance of technical documentation and Bills of Materials while developing expertise in CAD, technical design, and documentation within an international engineering company.Are you passionate about technology, structure, and teamwork - and eager to learn?We are looking for a Graduate Technical Documentation Assistant to assist us in meeting the increased demands and requirements for our technical documentation in our Technical Documentation Team.We offer a challenging role with opportunities to collaborate and learn from skilled colleagues. INVISIO is a global leader in advanced communication and hearing protection systems, designed to ensure clear communication under the most demanding conditions. About the jobThis role combines technical documentation and documentation support. You will receive thorough training and have the opportunity to develop your skills as you take on new responsibilities.Key responsibilities:Maintaining technical documentation and Bills of Materials (BOMs).Supporting projects and technical processes.Collaborating with colleagues across the organization.Contributing to quality assurance and structured ways of working.Undertaking other duties reasonably required, which are appropriate with the level and nature of the role.As your experience grows, you will have the opportunity to broaden your responsibilities by contributing to the creation and updating of technical documentation, including both 2D and 3D materials.  About youWe are looking for a structured and detail-oriented candidate with a positive mindset.  As this is a graduate role, your level of seniority is less important than your eagerness to learn, develop your expertise, and positively influence and build relationships with your team members.Preferred skills:Relevant education in Technical Designer/Technical Assistant or similar.Experience with CAD (Creo or similar).Curious, motivated, and eager to learn. A collaborative mindset and ability to thrive in a varied workday.Ability to communicate and work with various personalities across the organization and externally.Have excellent skills in verbal and written English.  What we offerA varied and challenging role in an international, growing, and innovative company.A workplace with professional and personal growth opportunities, including training to help you achieve your career goals.A culture of high transparency, competency, teamwork, and passion, where everybody has a high degree of freedom – we trust everyone will do their utmost.

Posted 28 days ago