Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme - HM Naval Base Clyde

Babcock Mission Critical Services España SA.; Helensburgh; Hybrid; GBP 32,000 - 39,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days holiday

Pension scheme

Cycle to work

Wellbeing programme

Employee assistance programme

Job summary

Babcock’s Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme in Helensburgh, Scotland, offers two-year rotations across UK projects, including submarines, surface ships and next‑generation power systems. You’ll rotate every 3–6 months, gaining experience from concept through deployment while developing leadership and technical skills.

Structured training, mentorship, and support toward Chartered/ Incorporated Engineer status are provided, with on‑completion opportunities in the Engineering Function and

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical/Structural/Motorsport/Materials/Mechatronics/Engine Systems/Welding/Automotive/AeroMechanical.
• Eligibility for BPSS and Security Check security clearance.
• UK national status or eligibility noted for programme.

Responsibilities

• Support across the engineering lifecycle from concept design to decommissioning.
• Participate in rotations across projects and locations, building leadership and project skills.

Skills

Security clearance

Education

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

Job description

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Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

Location: Helensburgh, GB, G84 8HL

Onsite or Hybrid: Hybrid

Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

Programme title: Mechanical Engineering Graduate Programme

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

Role ID: 74663

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 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 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 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) and Security Check (SC) security clearance. For further details, visit GOV.UK and search ‘United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels’.
• Under applicablenationalsecurity legislation, this post may only be occupied by asole UKnational. 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 programme for September 2027 are available at HM Naval Base Clyde in Scotland.

At HMNB Clyde, you’ll be directly supporting the Royal Navy’s Vanguard and Astute‑Class submarines – critical to the UK’s Continuous At Sea Deterrent. As a mechanical engineering graduate, you’ll contribute to the planning, maintenance, and training that keep vital defence systems operating safely and effectively. Whether you’re developing technical training, supporting maintenance schedules, or helping improve the performance and reliability of mechanical systems, you’ll be at the heart of a critical national defence capability.

We offer agile working, giving you some flexibility, but you can expect to spend several days a week on‑site as part of your role and development. By your start date, you must be able to reliably commute to the site. This will normally require living within a reasonable commuting distance of HM Naval Base Clyde or relocating before you join us.

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.

Application process and important information

Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and if there’s a high level of interest in this programme, we may close applications earlier than advertised. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.

We're a Disability Confident Employer. If you require additional support or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know when you apply. Our team will contact you after receiving your application to discuss your requirements and the support available.

We’re committed to building an inclusive culture where everyone’s free to thrive. We are happy to talk about flexible working – please ask about alternative patterns of work at interview.