Naval Architecture Graduate Programme

targetjobs UK; Plymouth; Hybrid; GBP 35,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company is seeking a Graduate Naval Architect for a two-year program that includes diverse placements across various aspects of naval architecture. The role offers a minimum starting salary of £35,000, 25 days of holiday, and professional development support towards chartered status. Candidates should have degrees in relevant fields and be willing to work on-site in Plymouth, Bristol, or Rosyth.

Benefits

25 days of holiday plus bank holidays

Generous pension and employee share schemes

Health checks and wellbeing support

Qualifications

• Degrees in Naval Architecture, Ship Science, Maritime/Marine Engineering, Marine Technology, or Ship Building.
• A degree accredited by RINA/IMarEST is preferred.
• Must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance.

Responsibilities

• Involved in naval architecture projects such as assessing strength of aircraft carrier’s flight deck.
• Participate in a range of placements over two years to cover all aspects of naval architecture.
• Receive structured support and mentorship throughout the program.

Job description

2 weeks ago Be among the first 25 applicants

Overview

As a Graduate Naval Architect at Babcock, you’ll be involved in a wide range of work that will help you build expertise across the many aspects of naval architecture. Your projects could involve docking a 16,000-tonne nuclear submarine, assessing the strength of an aircraft carrier’s flight deck for F35 Lightning landings, analysing mooring arrangements for a new frigate, designing systems to withstand explosive events, or defining stability requirements for a submarine surfacing through polar ice. You’ll learn directly from respected naval architects and structural engineers and gain expertise in analysing and designing all aspects of floating vessels and structures, from hull form and stability to propulsion and human factors. You’ll be trusted to make a meaningful impact from the very beginning.

Programme structure

The Naval Architecture Graduate Programme runs for two years and provides breadth and depth across the discipline. You’ll move through a series of placements, each lasting a few months, working in different teams and exploring areas such as hydrodynamics, structures, design, stability and safety. Placements may take you to different areas of the business, from submarine sustainment to surface ships or marine infrastructure projects, ensuring you see the full scope of naval architecture in practice.

Development and support

From day one, you’ll receive structured support, personalised training, and dedicated mentorship. You’ll join our Graduate Development Programme, featuring expert-led masterclasses on communication, personal branding, resilience, and wellbeing. To support your progression toward Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status, we offer guidance and cover all related fees.

Rewards and benefits

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
• Adaptable benefits, including cycle to work scheme, discounts
• Wellbeing support, including Employee Assistance Programme, digital GP service, and health checks

You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities.

Qualifications and eligibility

• Degrees in Naval Architecture, Ship Science, Maritime/Marine Engineering, Marine Technology, or Ship Building
• A degree accredited by RINA/IMarEST is preferred
• Security clearance considerations: as many graduate programmes are subject to Security Clearance and Trade Control restrictions. For this programme, you must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance

Location and base

Places on the Naval Architecture programme for Autumn 2026 are available in Rosyth, Bristol and Plymouth. 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 adaptability and openness to relocation throughout the programme and will consider your personal circumstances when arranging placements.

Business areas guide

• Rosyth (Scotland) — design and maintain cutting-edge naval ships and advanced manufacturing facilities
• Bristol — Marine/Nuclear, design and sustainability projects with national impact
• Plymouth (Devonport) — support for in-service submarines and surface ships

Regardless of where you start, you’ll gain valuable experience, and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Application

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if there is high interest. To maximise your chances, submit your application and complete any required online assessments as soon as possible.

Seniority level

• Internship

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology

Industries

• Technology, Information and Internet

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