Health Physics Graduate Programme

Two-year Health Physics Graduate Programme focused on radiation protection and nuclear safety, including radiation monitoring, radiological assessments, safety procedures, and supporting submarine operations at Devonport Royal Dockyard.

What will you do on the programme?

As a Health Physics Graduate at Babcock, you’ll play an important role in keeping people and the environment safe. Based at Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth, you’ll work on the newest class of submarines in the Ministry of Defence’s fleet, supporting tasks such as monitoring radiation levels, reviewing safety procedures, and carrying out radiological assessments.

Working alongside experienced specialists, you’ll apply your skills and contribute directly to safety measures, gaining practical experience that will prepare you for a rewarding career supporting nuclear operations.

How is the programme structured?

Over two years, you’ll rotate across different teams, gaining experience on a range of radiological projects. As you develop your technical expertise and understanding of health physics, you’ll gradually take on more complex tasks and greater responsibility, contributing directly to the safe operation of the dockyard.

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.

As a Health Physics Graduate, you’ll also complete a postgraduate qualification in Radiological Protection as part of the programme. Delivered in three intensive four-week modules at HMS Sultan in Gosport, Hampshire, the course offers an immersive and supportive learning experience, with food and accommodation provided throughout.

What’s waiting for you after the programme?

Upon completing the programme, you'll transition into a permanent role within Health Physics. 

From there, your development doesn’t stop. We’ll support you as you grow into more senior roles and take on greater responsibility. Through the Babcock Role Framework, you’ll have a clear view of how your career can progress, with mapped-out pathways, development opportunities and the tools you need to get wherever you want to go.

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 BSc (Hons) degree in Physics, Chemistry or Biology. Any kind of postgraduate qualification in this area, such as an MSc or PG (Dip) in Radiological Protection, is desirable but not essential.

• You should be comfortable working in a range of operational environments, which may include working at height, within confined spaces, and in radiological areas. Full training and safety support will be provided.

• Many of our 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 and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), Security Check (SC) and Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NNPI) clearance.

• Under applicable national security legislation, this post may only be occupied by a sole UK national. This legal requirement is independent of our recruitment policies, and all eligible applicants will be assessed fairly and without discrimination.

Where will you be based?

Our Health Physics programme for Autumn 2027 is based in the Marine/Nuclear sector in Plymouth.

To get the most from the programme, you will be expected to attend your base location in person for up to five days per week. Regular on-site attendance will help you learn from experienced colleagues, build professional networks, and benefit from day-to-day mentoring and guidance. 

You will also be required to travel to HMS Sultan and other partner organisations for training.