Graduate- Commercial

Supports commercial strategy, procurement, contract negotiation and supplier management, helping deliver value for money and manage commercial risks across major defence and national security programmes.

About AWE 

We are a team of remarkable people delivering an extraordinary mission: keeping the nation safe and secure. Our work includes delivering the next warhead for the UK's nuclear deterrent and advancing nuclear technologies that support national security. 

As part of AWE, you will contribute to nationally significant programmes, help address complex commercial challenges and support innovative solutions alongside pioneering scientific and technical work. 

Programme purpose 

The two-year Evolve Graduate Programme will help you build the commercial skills, experience and professional credentials needed for a successful career. You will join a Commercial function supporting one of the UK's most ambitious defence and national security investment programmes, with more than £20 billion being invested in infrastructure, technology and capabilities. 

From the start, you will contribute to real commercial activities and work alongside experienced professionals, senior leaders, government stakeholders and strategic suppliers. The programme is designed to give you early exposure, meaningful responsibility and structured support as you develop towards future commercial leadership roles. 

Key activities and responsibilities 

• Contribute to commercial strategies that support organisational objectives and deliver long-term value. 

• Support procurement activity and the negotiation, award and management of complex contracts. 

• Build and maintain effective relationships with strategic suppliers and internal stakeholders. 

• Identify, assess and manage commercial risks and opportunities throughout the contract lifecycle. 

• Support value-for-money decisions while balancing cost, risk, performance and delivery requirements. 

• Use commercial insight, analysis and market intelligence to inform business decisions. 

• Apply commercial policy, governance and assurance frameworks to support compliant and robust decisions. 

• Use digital tools and emerging technology, including AI-enabled solutions, to improve commercial outcomes. 

• Communicate clearly, influence constructively and work confidently across complex stakeholder environments. 

Career pathways and professional development 

You will gain exposure to a range of commercial disciplines, which may include procurement, contract management, commercial assurance, category management and commercial strategy. This will help you understand your strengths and explore potential career pathways. 

AWE will fully fund either a Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply (CIPS) or Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) qualification and provide protected study time throughout the programme. 

Behaviours and qualities 

• Proactive: Takes ownership, shows initiative and follows through on commitments. 

• Curious: Asks questions, seeks understanding and explores new ideas. 

• Growth-oriented: Embraces learning opportunities, feedback and continuous development. 

• Adaptable: Responds positively to challenges, change and new ways of working. 

• Collaborative: Builds positive relationships and works effectively with others. 

• Analytical: Uses evidence and insight to solve problems and make informed decisions. 

• Commercially minded: Shows interest in how organisations create value, manage risk and deliver outcomes. 

• Communicative: Shares ideas clearly and listens to different perspectives. 

• Organised: Manages priorities effectively and pays attention to detail. 

• Professional: Demonstrates integrity, accountability and respect for others. 

Entry requirements 

• You must have or gain a 2.2 degree prior to joining us.  

• A commercial, financial or business-related background may be advantageous but is not essential. Applications are encouraged from all degree disciplines. 

• You must be able to join AWE in September 2027. 

• You must be a British National and willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance. 

Salary and benefits 

• £31,000 starting salary. 

• Regular Graduate pay reviews and structured career progression. 

• A market-leading contributory pension scheme. 

• 270 hours of annual leave, including bank holidays. 

• A 9-day working fortnight, meaning you will not work every other Friday. 

• A welcome payment and the option of an interest-free £1,000 loan. 

• A salary-sacrifice benefit scheme, Life Assurance and employee discounts across retail, hospitality and leisure. 

• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services. 

Support and community 

• A dedicated Placement Manager throughout the programme. 

• A buddy, typically a Graduate from a previous cohort. 

• A vibrant Early Careers community with organised and informal social activities. 

• Opportunities to join staff-led Equity, Diversity and Inclusion working groups. 

• Support from colleagues and management to bring your unique contribution to the work.