Mechanical Engineering

Babcock International; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Babcock International offers a Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme with rotations across the UK to work on submarines, ships, and future nuclear projects. You’ll gain hands‑on experience from concept to in‑service support, developing technical and leadership skills to progress in a global engineering organisation.

Starting salary is £35,000+ depending on role, location, and qualifications; the programme runs across multiple UK locations with on-site placements and structured mentorship to

Qualifications

• Degree required or on track to graduate in a relevant engineering field.

Responsibilities

• Rotate through placements across the mechanical engineering lifecycle.
• Contribute to design reviews, stress analysis, and integration of systems.
• Develop leadership and project management skills through multi-site rotations.

Education

BEng or MEng in Mechanical, Structural, Motorsport, Materials, Mechatronics, Engine Systems, Welding, Automotive, or AeroMechanical

Job description

*Your starting salary will be at least £35,000, with the final amount based on your role, location, and qualifications.

Location

Across the UK

We offer placements in a range of locations across England, including Plymouth, Bristol, Warrington, Leicester, Humberside, Ashchurch and more, as well as in Scotland at HM Naval Base Clyde and Rosyth.

Start dates will be staggered from 1st September 2027. We’ll confirm your exact start date during onboarding.

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. This is your chance to contribute to engineering solutions that help safeguard tomorrow while developing the technical expertise and leadership skills needed to thrive in your career.

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 and surface ships, converting military vehicles, refurbishing ships, or advancing next-generation nuclear power plants that support the UK’s net-zero goals. The possibilities are incredibly diverse.

You’ll work alongside a global network of engineers, technicians, and specialists who share your passion for innovation and precision. Whether you’re leading design reviews, overseeing stress analysis, or managing the integration of mechanical systems into high-performance platforms, your expertise will help ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of critical national infrastructure.

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 mechanical 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 guidance and cover all associated fees.

What’s waiting for you after the programme?

Once you complete the programme, you’ll move into a permanent role within our Engineering Function, where you can continue applying and expanding the skills you’ve developed. You’ll also have the opportunity to build on your progress toward professional registration, a recognised benchmark of engineering competence, which can support your journey into more advanced roles, such as Senior Engineer.

As a global organisation, Babcock provides countless opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career. To support your growth, we’ve introduced the Babcock Role Framework, which outlines roles, career pathways, and development opportunities. With every job mapped to these frameworks, you’ll have a transparent view of the steps needed to reach Senior Engineer and beyond.

What do Mechanical Engineers have to say?

Meet Duncan, one of our graduates. In this short film, Duncan reflects on his experiences at Babcock, highlighting the unique opportunities to apply engineering skills across a wide range of projects. He provides insights into his day-to-day tasks, which include everything from writing trial reports in the office to working on-site with cutting-edge technology.

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.

• You’ll need to have achieved, or be on track to achieve, a BEng or MEng in one of the following subjects: Mechanical, Structural, Motorsport, Materials, Mechatronics, Engine Systems, Welding, Automotive, or AeroMechanical.
• Many of our programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions, meaning your place of birth, nationality, citizenship, or any residency you hold or have held may impact your eligibility. Restrictions may vary depending on the business area or location in which you work, so please refer to the relevant job advert for full details before applying.

Where will you be based?

Select one of the locations below to find out about the different areas of our business that are offering places on our Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme for Autumn 2027.

While you’ll join a specific business area and location, placements at different sites across the UK are possible. We encourage flexibility and openness to relocation throughout the programme and will consider your personal circumstances when arranging placements.

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.

When you successfully complete the programme, you will continue in the business area and location you started; therefore, it is important to consider this when applying.

Not sure which business area to apply for? Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

• Curious about the UK’s nuclear future? At Cavendish Nuclear, you’ll find diverse placement opportunities across the UK giving you the chance to work on projects that protect our nation, secure our energy supply, and support our journey to net zero.
• Interested in converting military vehicles and supporting frontline operations? Our Land placements across the UK (including Bristol and Ruislip, London) give you the opportunity to support the British Army and the emergency services.
• Excited by the idea of designing and maintaining cutting-edge naval ships? Rosyth (Scotland) is home to our advanced manufacturing facility and could be your perfect match.
• Passionate about supporting submarines and surface ships? Devonport (Plymouth) and Clyde (Scotland) are key naval bases where you can work directly with the Royal Navy.
• Ready to shape the future of maritime capability? Marine (Bristol, Plymouth or Ashchurch) offers the opportunity to work on communications systems, electronic warfare capabilities and other technologies used across naval and maritime platforms.
• Keen on strategic design and support for submarines? Nuclear – Bristol focuses on cutting-edge projects with national impact.

No matter where you start, you’ll gain valuable experience – and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Current openings in Mechanical Engineering

Check out some of our other, related programmes. Whatever graduate programme you choose, you’ll get the chance to make a real impact.