Civil and Structural Engineering Graduate Programme

Babcock International; Helensburgh; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Scotland is offering a Civil and Structural Engineering Graduate Programme aimed at developing new graduates into skilled engineers. This two-year programme includes diverse placements within civil and structural engineering, with a minimum starting salary of £35,000 and benefits such as 25 days of holiday, flexible working options, and support towards Chartered Engineer status.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Generous pension scheme

Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme

Wellbeing support services

STEM outreach and volunteering opportunities

Qualifications

• A degree in a relevant engineering field.
• Ability to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC).
• Flexibility to work on-site multiple times a week.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to civil and structural engineering projects.
• Participate in various placements to develop broader engineering skills.
• Engage in the graduate development programme and mentorship.

Skills

Teamwork

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Civil and Coastal Engineering

Degree in Civil and Structural Engineering

Degree in Civil Engineering

Degree in Material Science and Metallurgy

Job description

Overview

Programme title: Civil and Structural Engineering Graduate Programme

Salary: Minimum £35,000. Salary is dependent on location, role and qualifications.

Location: HM Naval Base Clyde, Scotland

Application closing date: 16 October 2025

Programme start date: September 2026

Role ID: 66987

What will you do on the programme?

What will you do on the programme? Civil and structural engineering is about shaping the world around us – designing, building and maintaining the infrastructure that society depends on every day. It’s about making sure structures are strong, stable and safe. At Babcock, you’ll put these principles into practice on projects that truly matter.

As a graduate, you’ll contribute to high-profile infrastructure and defence projects across naval and nuclear operations. You could help build the next generation of nuclear power stations, modernise dockyards to support a modern naval fleet, or maintain critical facilities that keep the UK’s defence and energy sectors running smoothly. You’ll be involved in designing, constructing and maintaining complex infrastructure, ensuring buildings and structures are robust, resilient and fit for purpose.

You’ll be part of a team delivering smarter, safer infrastructure that makes a real difference to the UK’s defence and energy future.

How is the programme structured?

This is an exciting two-year programme made up of a series of placements designed to give you broad experience across civil and structural engineering.

You’ll rotate through different teams and projects, developing your knowledge of structural assessments, design documentation, compliance processes and operational site support. 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.

Each placement gives you the chance to apply what you’ve learned, take on real responsibilities and discover the areas of the discipline that interest you most.

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 full guidance and cover all associated fees.

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, with agile working options subject to discussion with your manager
• 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?

• A degree in Civil and Coastal Engineering, Civil and Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Material Science and Metallurgy, or an Engineering degree with Civil, Structural or Architectural content.
• Many of our graduate 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 Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels - GOV.UK.

Where will you be based?

Places on our Civil and Structural Engineering graduate programme for Autumn 2026 are available at HM Naval Base Clyde, Scotland.

As part of our Nuclear sector, Babcock’s HM Naval Base Clyde operation provides highly specialist engineering support services, including the management of critical infrastructure and nuclear facilities. We also deliver operational maintenance, upgrades and repairs to support Royal Navy vessels, including the Vanguard and Astute-Class nuclear submarines based in Scotland.

Here you'll help design, inspect, and maintain vital dockyard and waterfront infrastructure that supports the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet. Whether you’re working on routine maintenance, modernisation, or cutting-edge upgrades, you'll be right at the centre of a critical defence capability.

While you’ll join a specific business area and location, placements at different sites across the UK are possible. Agile working is supported, but you’ll be expected to work on-site multiple times a week. We encourage flexibility and openness to relocation throughout the programme and will consider your personal circumstances when arranging placements.

Ready to apply?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if we receive a high volume of interest. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we strongly recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.