Project Management Graduate

National Highways; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous pension scheme

Starting annual leave of 26 days

Health and wellbeing schemes

Discounts on shopping and dining

Job summary

A national transport organization is offering a Project Management Graduate role, designed to kickstart your career with hands-on projects and essential training. The program combines study and practical experience, with opportunities for mentorship and network building. Ideal candidates must hold a 2:2 undergraduate degree and are committed to learning in a collaborative environment. This role provides a competitive salary and benefits package, including generous leave and pension contributions.

Qualifications

• Positive mindset and ownership of work.
• Strong organizational skills and critical thinking.
• Willingness to learn and adapt.

Responsibilities

• Participate in projects that improve transport infrastructure.
• Engage in hands-on experience through placements.
• Complete a tailored apprenticeship program.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Problem-solving

Adaptability

Education

Undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above

GCSE Maths Grade C/4

GCSE English Language Grade C/4

Job description

Join to apply for the Project Management Graduate role at National Highways

Locations available: Bedford, Nottingham, Guildford, Leeds, Birmingham, Bristol. Please press apply.

Connect the country. Shape your future. Start your career journey with us.

Ready to kickstart your career and make a real impact? Join our three-year Project Management Graduate Programme and be part of the team shaping the future of our strategic road network.

From day one, you’ll be at the heart of exciting projects that help connect communities across the country. You’ll mix study with hands‑on experience, learning how we plan, build and operate our roads. With expert mentors by your side, you’ll explore the full lifecycle of project delivery and grow your skills through inspiring placements across the business.

You’ll also complete a tailored apprenticeship programme, setting you on the path to becoming a chartered project management professional and a full member of the Association for Project Management (APM).

What You’ll Get in Return

If you're ready to invest in your development and excited to help shape the future of transport, we’ve got your back!

Our graduate programmes offer a mix of hands‑on experience, workshops, and real‑world learning. You’ll have a dedicated manager, support from experienced mentors, and flexible work arrangements to help you thrive. You’ll also be part of our Early Careers community, connecting with peers, sharing ideas, and building your network. And when the programme wraps up, we’ll support you in landing a permanent role in the business.

As well as a competitive salary and plenty of career development support, you’ll also enjoy a fantastic employee benefits package which includes a generous pension scheme, annual leave starting at 26 days (rising to 31 days with service), access to health and wellbeing schemes, discounts and cashback on shopping, going out and more!

What You’ll Need to Succeed

You’ll need to bring a positive mindset, take ownership of your work, and be ready to adapt when things shift. We’re looking for great communicators who work well with others, stay organised, and think critically to solve problems. If you're curious, passionate, and keen to learn, you'll fit right in and grow fast.

To be eligible for our graduate programme, you must:

• Hold (or will achieve before the programme start) an undergraduate degree at 2:2 or above in any subject AND a minimum of a Grade C / Grade 4 in Mathematics and English Language at GCSE.
• Be able attend a 4-day induction from 7th -10th September 2026
• Hold an unrestricted Right to Work in the UK for the full duration of the programme. Due to the salary level of this role, we cannot offer sponsorship for the position for individuals that don't have the Right to Work in the UK.

Our Graduate Assessment Centres will run in January and February 2026, and you’ll hear back soon after about whether you’ve secured a place.

All offers to the programme are subject to satisfactory completion of pre‑employment checks, including Right to Work, reference, and DBS criminal record checks.

About Us

Our strategic road network is vital to connecting the country, carrying a third of all traffic and two‑thirds of freight. Every single day, National Highways get millions of people to where they need to be as efficiently and safely as possible along more than 4,500 miles of motorways and major A roads. We bring people together, keep businesses moving and help communities to stay connected.

We’re constantly innovating to stay ahead of the curve in building and operating our roads, investing in both the right projects and the brightest talent to help shape our future. And that’s where you come in!

Why You Should Join Us

At National Highways, we believe in building a connected country. We’re passionate about creating an inclusive, collaborative culture where all our people feel empowered, valued and enjoy greater wellbeing to achieve this.

If you share our values of safety, passion, teamwork, ownership, and integrity, you’ll thrive as part of our team.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're excited by growing in and shaping the future of a large, evolving organisation, apply today and start your journey with us. Don’t miss out – submit your application early as we may close applications before the advertised closing date if we receive a high volume of interest.

Due to the volume of applications we receive, we can only consider your application for one programme and one location. Please ensure you only apply to your preferred option, if you apply to more than one, we will take your first application as your preferred option.