Electrical, Control and Instrumentation Engineering Graduate Programme

Babcock International; Helensburgh; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is offering an Electrical, Control and Instrumentation Engineering Graduate Programme starting in September 2026. The programme offers a minimum salary of £35,000 and includes rotational placements, mentorship, and comprehensive development support. Applicants should possess degrees in relevant disciplines and must meet security clearance requirements. The role is based at HM Naval Base Clyde, supporting key UK defense projects.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Generous pension and employee share schemes

Flexible benefits and discounts

Comprehensive wellbeing support

Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Control and Instrumentation, or related fields.
• Accredited by the relevant institution preferred.
• Ability to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance.

Responsibilities

• Support various stages of engineering lifecycle including design, production, and decommissioning.
• Collaborate with professionals to deliver innovative and high-quality solutions.
• Participate in structured development and training throughout the programme.

Education

Electrical Engineering

Control and Instrumentation

Robotics

Mechatronics

Control Systems

Aerospace

Avionics

Software

Job description

Overview

Programme title: Electrical, Control and Instrumentation 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: 66911

What will you do on the programme?

Join our Electrical, Control and Instrumentation Engineering Graduate Programme and play your part in delivering some of the UK’s most impactful engineering projects.

At Babcock, you’ll support work across various stages of the engineering lifecycle – from technology innovation and concept design to production, commissioning, in-service support, and decommissioning.

You could be designing cutting-edge submarines, converting military vehicles, refurbishing ships, or advancing next-generation nuclear power plants that support the UK’s net-zero goals. You might also help build safer, more efficient rail networks.

Whatever you’re working on, you’ll apply your engineering knowledge to meaningful projects, collaborating with experienced professionals to deliver innovative, high-quality solutions.

How is the programme structured?

Over two years, you’ll rotate through placements every three to six months, giving you the chance to explore a variety of projects and teams. 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.

Along the way, you’ll build a strong foundation in electrical, control and instrumentation engineering, while gradually taking on greater responsibilities, such as leading small teams and overseeing projects.

As you progress, you\'ll have the chance to align your placements with your interests and career goals, helping you build relevant experience in areas that matter most to you.

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?

• We accept a wide range of degrees in the following disciplines: Electrical Engineering, Control and Instrumentation, Robotics, Mechatronics, Control Systems, Aerospace, Avionics, and Software. Our preference is that your degree is also accredited by the relevant institution.
• 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 GOV.UK.

Where will you be based?

Places on our Electrical, Control and Instrumentation Engineering graduate programme for Autumn 2026 are available at HM Naval Base Clyde.

At HMNB Clyde, you\'ll be directly supporting the Royal Navy’s Vanguard and Astute-Class submarines. With a strong focus on nuclear engineering and infrastructure, this site gives you the chance to work on the systems that underpin the UK\'s continuous at-sea deterrent. 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.