Science and Analytical Chemistry Undergraduate Placement Year

Babcock International; Plymouth; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

Babcock International offers an undergraduate placement year in Science and Analytical Chemistry at Devonport, Plymouth. You will study and apply analytical techniques in our labs, focusing on radiochemical analyses and water/oils chemistry to support national safety.

The programme combines lab work with field exposure in the dockyard, providing hands-on experience and guidance from industry professionals. Outstanding performers may join our graduate program.

Qualifications

• Must be studying towards an undergraduate degree in a science-based subject (Chemistry, Chemical, Environmental, or Science/Sciences).
• Willing to work in varied environments including radiological areas and confined spaces.
• Site-based placement, commutable distance or willingness to relocate.
• Baseline Security clearance requirements may apply (BPSS, SC, NNPPI).

Responsibilities

• Work in UKAS-accredited laboratories specialising in Chemistry and Radiochemistry.
• Gain practical experience with water and oils chemistry, confined spaces testing, and radionuclide analysis.
• Apply chemical analysis and learn to operate specialist equipment to support Royal Navy vessel safety.
• Alternate between laboratory work and dockyard environments to understand operations.

Education

Undergraduate science degree (Chemistry/Environmental/Science)

Job description

Science and Analytical Chemistry Undergraduate Placement Year

Programme title: Science and Analytical Chemistry Undergraduate Placement Year

Salary: £26,800 pro rata

Location: Devonport, Plymouth

Application closing date: 20 October 2026

Start date: September 2027

Role ID: 74754

What you'll do

Welcome to a world where your science skills have a direct impact on national safety. During this undergraduate placement year, you'll work within Devonport Royal Dockyard's UKAS‑accredited laboratories, specialising in Chemistry and Radiochemistry.

Here, you'll receive training and gain experience in areas such as water chemistry, oils chemistry, confined space testing and radionuclide analysis. You'll also develop practical expertise using specialist equipment, applying chemical analysis to help ensure the safe operation of Royal Navy vessels.

Some days, you'll be in the laboratory, learning and applying core scientific techniques. On others, you'll be out in the dockyard, gaining a broader understanding of our operations and how your work supports them.

Throughout the programme, you'll build your technical skills, discover your strengths, and take meaningful steps towards shaping your future in science.

What you'll get out of it

Our placements are about more than work experience - they're an opportunity to immerse yourself in life at Babcock, form meaningful connections, and develop skills that will set you up for your future career. You'll work alongside supportive colleagues and gain guidance from experienced professionals every step of the way.

We value the fresh perspectives and innovative ideas that placement students bring to our team. We believe you have the potential to shape the future of our business. But we also understand that this placement is as much about you assessing what's right for you as it is about us getting to know you. Perform well, and you could be considered for a position on our graduate programme - your journey with Babcock could just be getting started.

What you'll need

• You'll need to be studying towards an undergraduate degree in a science-based subject. Degrees with Chemistry, Chemical, Environmental, or Science/Sciences in the title are acceptable.
• You should be comfortable working in a range of operational environments, which may include working at height, within confined spaces, and in radiological areas. Full training and safety support will be provided.
• This is a site-based programme. You should live within a commutable distance or be willing to relocate.
• A valid driving licence is preferable, as you may be required to transport radiological materials.
• 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), Security Check (SC) and Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NNPPI) clearance. For further details, visit GOV.UK and search United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels'.

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.

Please apply to one programme only. If we receive more than one application from you, we'll assess the first one submitted. If your chosen programme becomes oversubscribed, we may contact you to discuss other programmes you could be eligible for.

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.

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