DE&S Finance Graduate Scheme

UK Defence Equipment and Support; Bristol; On-site; GBP 29,000; Full time

Job summary

A governmental defense agency is seeking a dedicated finance support intern to join its two-year development program based in Bristol. The ideal candidate must hold a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 2:1 qualification and have a strong interest in finance. Duties include providing financial support and conducting budget forecasting. The role features professional training opportunities and a competitive salary with annual increments. Candidates should be UK residents for the past five years.

Benefits

25 days holiday

Employer pension contribution of 28.97%

Flexible and hybrid working options

Professional training

Employee networks promoting diversity

Qualifications

• GCSE Maths and English Language (grade 4 or above).
• Bachelor's degree in any subject at a minimum grade 2:1 required.
• UK residency for last five years and Security Check (SC) clearance needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide financial support across the organization.
• Conduct budget forecasting and financial analysis.
• Review and create accruals.

Skills

Communication skills

Budget forecasting

Financial analysis

Accruals review

Cost development

Education

Bachelor's degree (2:1 or higher)

Tools

Specialist financial systems

Job description

Location : MOD Abbey Wood Bristol BS34 8JH (office attendance required)

Duration : Two years

Start Date : August 2026

Salary : 28800 (with annual increments)

Entry Requirements : Bachelors degree (2:1 or higher)

Working Pattern : Full-time

Overview

Join Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S) to support the UK Armed Forces by delivering cutting‑edge equipment and technology. This two‑year development programme offers hands‑on experience in finance and the opportunity to work towards the CIMA Advanced Diploma in Management Accounting.

What you’ll do

• Provide support to finance staff across the organisation.
• Budget forecasting and financial analysis.
• Review and create accruals.
• Develop costings for business cases.
• Track and record contract costs.
• Use specialist financial systems.

What we offer

• Salary of 28800 with annual increments.
• 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays and an extra privilege day).
• Employer pension contribution of 28.97%.
• Flexible and hybrid working options.
• Professional training and funding for qualifications.
• Access to employee networks promoting diversity and inclusion.
• Huge range of discounts.

Eligibility

UK residency for the last five years.

Security Check (SC) clearance required.

Right to work in the UK (DE&S does not sponsor visas).

Minimum selection criteria

• GCSE Maths and English Language (grade 4 or above).
• Bachelors (or higher) degree in any subject at a minimum grade 2:1.

Pass at online assessment stage

Final‑year students can apply with official predicted grades; all qualifications must be evidenced by end of August 2026. An equivalent level qualification to GCSEs in the required subject and grades will also be considered. Candidates should have a strong interest and aptitude for working with numbers. It is recommended to visit the CIMA website to understand the qualifications needed for success on the scheme.

Application process

1. Apply Online (13 Oct – 10 Nov 2025) – Complete an online application form including information on how you meet our minimum criteria.
2. Online Assessments (Nov 2025) – Complete interactive assessments (20‑30 min) that assess adaptability, learning, and thinking at work.
3. Eligibility checks (Dec 2025) – Review of application against minimum selection and nationality requirements.
4. Assessment Centre (Jan‑Feb 2026) – Interviews, presentation and group activity at DE&S headquarters; in‑person attendance required.
5. Provisional Offer (Feb 2026) – Offers based on order of merit and number of roles available.
6. Onboarding (March‑Aug 2026) – Pre‑employment checks; formal offer issued upon successful completion.
7. Induction (August 2026) – Scheme commences if confirmed.

Behaviours assessed

• Communicating and Influencing
• Working Together
• Making Effective Decisions
• Delivering at Pace

Diversity and inclusion

DE&S is a Disability Confident Level 3 employer committed to an inclusive workplace. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and offer reasonable adjustments for candidates with disabilities. The Civil Service promotes equal opportunities and embraces diversity.

Key Skills

• sheltered housing
• elderly care
• Social Care
• Independent Living
• Communication skills
• Microsoft Outlook
• housing management
• ISO 13485
• Research Experience
• Rota Management
• social activities
• Research & Development

Employment type

Student