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- Tasks: Support the Royal Navy’s nuclear submarines through design, analysis, and maintenance.
- Company: Join a leading engineering firm at Devonport, Plymouth.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £35,000, 25+ days holiday, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Mechanical, Chemical or Process Engineering required.
- Other info: Structured mentorship and training to help you achieve Chartered Engineer status.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 49000 £ per year.
Overview
Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme – Devonport Facilities
Programme title: Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme – Devonport Facilities
Salary: Minimum £35,000. Salary is dependent on location, role and qualifications.
Location: Devonport, Plymouth
Application closing date: 16 October 2025
Programme start date: September 2026
Role ID: 66899
What will you do on the programme?
Join our Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme and support the upkeep of the Royal Navy’s fleet of nuclear-powered submarines at Devonport, Western Europe’s largest naval base.
As a Graduate Chemical and Process Engineer, you’ll play a vital role in supporting the design, analysis and maintenance of nuclear systems that ensure the safe and efficient operation of submarines and radiologically controlled facilities.
You’ll apply your knowledge of Mechanical, Chemical or Process Engineering to develop solutions to a wide range of technical challenges. Your work will involve ensuring compliance with design codes, maintaining quality assurance, specifying pipework components, assessing material strength and integrity, and managing pressure control and protection systems. You’ll also explore mechanical and chemical compatibility, fluid flow dynamics and stress analysis.
Throughout the programme, you’ll be involved in the development and modification of system designs, conducting technical analysis, producing engineering drawings and models using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, writing detailed technical reports, and performing inspections and validations in radiologically controlled areas – including onboard submarines. Every task you take on will contribute to the safe operation of nuclear infrastructure and the continued readiness of the Royal Navy.
How is the programme structured?
This is a Facilities Engineering Development Programme, delivered on-site at Devonport, Plymouth.
Over two years, you’ll complete a series of placements lasting between 6 and 16 weeks. These will take place across specialist teams working in offices, onboard submarines, and in supporting facilities. Each placement is designed to build your technical expertise, broaden your understanding of nuclear systems, and prepare you for a future role as a Nuclear Process Engineer.
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.
You’ll also benefit from a wide range of technical and non-technical training opportunities, including nuclear-specific development designed to deepen your expertise.
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?
- You’ll need a degree in Mechanical, Chemical or Process Engineering.
- 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), Security Check (SC) and Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NNPPI) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK.
Where will you be based?
Places on our Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme for Autumn 2026 are available in Devonport, 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.
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.
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Chemical and Process Engineering - Devonport Facilities employer: Babcock International
Contact Detail:
Babcock International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chemical and Process Engineering - Devonport Facilities
✨Tip Number 1
Get your networking game on! Connect with professionals in the Chemical and Process Engineering field through LinkedIn or industry events. We can’t stress enough how valuable personal connections can be when it comes to landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews like a pro! Research common questions related to nuclear systems and engineering principles. We recommend practising your answers out loud, so you feel confident and ready to impress during the real deal.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you’ve worked on relevant projects or have experience with CAD software, make sure to highlight these in your conversations. We want to see how you can apply your knowledge to real-world challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate candidates who are eager to contribute to the Royal Navy’s fleet at Devonport.
We think you need these skills to ace Chemical and Process Engineering - Devonport Facilities
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chemical and Process Engineering role. Highlight relevant projects, skills, and experiences that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits into our world!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about this programme and how your engineering knowledge can contribute to the Royal Navy’s fleet. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your technical skills in your application. Mention any experience with CAD software, technical analysis, or compliance with design codes. We’re looking for candidates who can hit the ground running!
Apply Early!: We review applications on a rolling basis, so don’t wait until the last minute! Get your application in early to increase your chances of securing a spot in our Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme. Head over to our website to apply now!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babcock International
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Brush up on your core knowledge in Mechanical, Chemical, and Process Engineering. Be ready to discuss how these principles apply to the design and maintenance of nuclear systems, as this will show your understanding of the role's technical demands.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of past projects or challenges where you developed innovative solutions. Highlight your analytical skills and how you approached technical problems, especially those related to fluid dynamics or material integrity.
✨Familiarise Yourself with CAD Software
Since you'll be using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, it’s a good idea to mention any experience you have with it. If you’ve worked on engineering drawings or models before, be ready to discuss them in detail during the interview.
✨Understand the Importance of Compliance
Research the design codes and quality assurance processes relevant to nuclear systems. Being able to articulate why compliance is crucial for safety and efficiency will demonstrate your commitment to the role and the organisation's values.
