Naval Architecture Graduate Programme

Babcock Mission Critical Services España SA.; West Devon; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Plymouth is seeking a Graduate Naval Architect to work on complex naval architecture projects. The two-year program offers placements across various teams, mentorship, and a starting salary of £35,000. Applicants should have relevant engineering degrees and be flexible in working locations within the UK.

Benefits

25 days holiday plus bank holidays

Generous pension and employee share schemes

Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme

Wellbeing support including digital GP and health checks

Qualifications

• Degree accredited by RINA/IMarEST preferred.
• Ability to achieve security clearance is mandatory.
• Passion for naval architecture and engineering.

Responsibilities

• Involved in complex engineering projects.
• Design systems and assess strength for naval vessels.
• Participate in a series of placements across various teams.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Degree in Naval Architecture

Degree in Maritime/Marine Engineering

Job description

Overview

Location: Devonport, Plymouth, GB, PL1 4SG

Onsite or Hybrid: OnSite

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

Role ID: 66901

What will you do on the programme?

As a Graduate Naval Architect at Babcock, you’ll play a part in some of the most complex and exciting engineering projects in the world today. 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 anything from helping us dock a 16,000-tonne nuclear submarine, to assessing the strength of an aircraft carrier’s flight deck for F35 Lightning landings. You might analyse mooring arrangements for a new frigate, design systems to withstand explosive events, or define stability requirements for a submarine surfacing through polar ice. Whatever you’re working on, you’ll learn directly from some of the most respected naval architects and structural engineers in the industry.

Along the way, you’ll gain expertise in analysing and designing all aspects of floating vessels and structures, from hull form and stability to propulsion and human factors. Whether supporting frontline capability or pioneering new technologies, you’ll be trusted to make a meaningful impact from the very beginning.

How is the programme structured?

The Naval Architecture Graduate Programme runs for two years and is designed to give you breadth and depth of experience across the discipline. You’ll move through a series of placements, each lasting a few months, giving you the chance to work in different teams and explore areas such as hydrodynamics, structures, design, stability and safety.

These placements may take you to different areas of the business, from supporting submarine sustainment to working on surface ships or marine infrastructure projects. The variety ensures you see the full scope of naval architecture in practice and understand how each discipline contributes to successful project delivery.

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 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 degrees in Naval Architecture, Ship Science, Maritime/Marine Engineering, Marine Technology, and Ship Building.
• A degree accredited by RINA/IMarEST is preferred.
• 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 United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels - GOV.UK.

Where will you be based?

Places on our Naval Architecture programme for Autumn 2026 are available in Plymouth.

Our business in Plymouth works in partnership with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and Royal Navy at HM Naval Base Devonport. We provide through-life support for submarines, surface ships and associated systems and equipment as part of our continuing commitment to support our nation’s naval 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.