Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

Supports the design, analysis, testing and maintenance of mechanical systems and facilities for the UK Royal Navy’s nuclear-powered submarines, including CAD modelling, inspections and safety-critical engineering.

What will you do on the programme?

Join our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme and you’ll have the opportunity to work on some of the UK’s most impactful engineering projects, directly supporting the upkeep of the UK Royal Navy’s fleet of nuclear-powered submarines at Devonport, Western Europe’s largest naval base.

As a Mechanical Engineering Graduate, you’ll play a vital role in supporting activities across all stages of the engineering lifecycle for a range of mechanical systems and equipment, including those with nuclear and radiological implications, from concept and design development, construction, commissioning, to in-service support and decommissioning.

As a member of Devonport’s Facilities Engineering team, you’ll work with teams of specialists in the design and assessment of fluid systems, mechanical handling equipment and building services and your expertise will help ensure the safety, reliability and performance of critical national infrastructure.

Throughout the programme, you’ll work alongside a network of engineers, technicians and specialists, and you’ll be involved in the development and modification of system designs, conducting technical analysis, producing engineering drawings and models using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, writing detailed technical reports, and performing inspections and validations – including onboard submarines. Every task you take on will contribute to the safe operation of nuclear infrastructure and the continued readiness of the Royal Navy.

How is the programme structured?

This is a Facilities Engineering Development Programme, delivered on-site at Devonport, Plymouth.

Over two years, you’ll complete a series of placements lasting between 6 and 16 weeks across specialist teams such as Design Authority, Plant Management, Safety Case and Operational Support. These placements will combine working in offices, onboard submarines and in supporting facilities, and each placement is shaped around your interests and career goals, giving you broad technical exposure and the chance to build strong foundations in facilities engineering.

By the end of the programme, you’ll be well prepared to take on a permanent role as a Mechanical Engineer at Babcock, equipped with the skills, confidence and experience to make a real impact.

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.

You’ll also benefit from a wide range of technical and non-technical training opportunities, including nuclear-specific development designed to deepen your expertise.

To support your journey toward Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status, we provide mentoring and cover all associated fees. You’ll also have access to structured development plans, support with Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and regular reviews with your line managers, placement managers and mentor to keep you on track.

What’s waiting for you after the programme?

Upon completing the programme, you’ll step into a Mechanical Engineering role as part of the Technical Authority at Devonport.

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 bachelor’s or master’s degree in one of the following subjects: Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Design (Mechanical), Integrated Engineering (Mechanical Pathway), Building Services Engineering or a related discipline.

• 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 Programme Information (NNPPI) 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?

Places on our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme for September 2027 are available in Devonport, Plymouth.

Our business in Plymouth works in partnership with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and Royal Navy at HM Naval Base Devonport. We provide through-life support for submarines, surface ships and associated systems and equipment as part of our continuing commitment to support our nation’s naval capability.