Project Management Apprenticeship

Babcock International; Kirkcaldy; On-site; GBP 39,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is offering a Project Management Apprenticeship that provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the dismantling of nuclear submarines. You’ll learn key project management skills while working alongside experienced professionals. This apprenticeship will lead you to a permanent position as a Project Manager with a starting salary over £39,000. The program includes a fully funded qualification and various benefits.

Benefits

Fully funded qualification

Personal development training

Minimum 28 days holiday

Competitive pension scheme

Employee share scheme

Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme

Qualifications

• Completed SCQF Level 8 Diploma in Project Management.
• Ability to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance.

Responsibilities

• Help deliver the dismantling of nuclear-powered submarines.
• Manage project budgets and documentation.
• Work with engineers and subcontractors to ensure project success.

Skills

Project planning

Budget management

Risk management

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Two Highers (one must be English at grade C)

National 5 Maths or equivalent

Job description

Programme title: Project Management Apprenticeship

Level: SCQF Level 8

Salary:

Year 1: £18,819

Year 2: £22,857

Upon completion: £39,000+

Location: Rosyth, Fife, Scotland

Application closing date: 12th March 2026

Programme start date: August 2026

Our 2-year Project Management Apprenticeship offers an exciting opportunity to help deliver one of the UK’s most ambitious engineering programmes – the dismantling of the Royal Navy’s legacy nuclear‑powered submarines. You’ll learn how complex projects are planned and managed from start to finish, developing the skills to turn great ideas into real progress.

About the programme

This world‑first project is setting new standards for innovation and sustainability in the defence and nuclear sectors. As part of the Project Management team, you’ll contribute to the safe dismantling and recycling of submarine reactor systems, gaining exposure to every stage of the process.

From project planning and scheduling to risk management and reporting, your work will touch on every area of project delivery. You’ll learn how to manage budgets, prepare project documentation, and collaborate with engineers, planners and subcontractors to keep progress on track.

Alongside technical project skills, you’ll also develop core capabilities in leadership, problem solving and stakeholder engagement – everything you need to build a successful career in project management.

Teamwork is at the heart of everything we do. You’ll work alongside experienced project managers who’ll share their knowledge and guide your development, helping you understand how effective project management supports national defence, safety and sustainability.

Your education/training

As part of your apprenticeship, you’ll study for the SCQF Level 8 Diploma in Project Management through Fife College.

The programme blends classroom learning with practical experience, helping you develop both the technical and professional skills that define a great project manager. You’ll explore core topics such as project planning, budgeting, scheduling, risk management, leadership and stakeholder communication, building a clear understanding of how to deliver successful outcomes in a complex engineering environment.

Future prospects

When you complete the programme, you’ll be ready to take on a permanent role as a Project Manager with Babcock, supporting major projects across our Marine, Defence and Nuclear businesses.

A newly qualified Project Manager at Babcock currently earns a competitive salary exceeding £39,000.

From there, your development doesn’t stop. Through the Babcock Role Framework, you’ll have a clear view of how your career can progress, with mapped‑out pathways, development opportunities and the tools you need to get wherever you want to go.

What you’ll need

• Two Highers (one of which should be English at grade C or above)
• National 5 Maths (or equivalent qualifications at SCQF levels 5 and 6)

Many of our apprenticeship 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 (www.gov.uk).

What you’ll get

We’ll provide you with a supportive and engaging environment where you can grow your career.

In addition, you’ll benefit from:

• Fully funded qualification
• Personal development training and opportunities
• Minimum 28 days holiday allowance including bank holidays
• Competitive pension scheme
• Employee share scheme
• Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme and employee shopping savings portal

You’ll also have the chance to get involved in our STEM outreach activities and volunteering opportunities, which our apprentices find incredibly rewarding.

Your career development

It’s hard to beat the variety of fantastic opportunities and business experiences you’ll receive. You can expect real world encounters and exposure to exciting projects that will really help you navigate where you want to take your career.

Plus, when you join us, you’ll be automatically enrolled onto our Apprentice Development Programme. Through a series of digital and face to face sessions, presented by wellbeing and performance experts and our external partners, we will equip you with the knowledge and tools you need to thrive and perform at your very best on your programme and beyond.

Application process and closing dates

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.