At a Glance
- Tasks: Work on impactful engineering projects supporting the UK Royal Navy's nuclear submarines.
- Company: Join Babcock, a leader in naval engineering and support.
- Benefits: Starting salary of £35,000, 25+ days holiday, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Gain hands-on experience with mentorship and training for career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's or master's degree in Chemical/Process Engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 42000 € 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 you’ll have the opportunity to work on some of the UK’s most impactful engineering projects, directly supporting the upkeep of the UK Royal Navy’s fleet of nuclear-powered submarines at Devonport, Western Europe’s largest naval base.
As a Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate, you’ll play a vital role in supporting work across various stages of the engineering lifecycle for nuclear-implicated process systems and equipment, from concept design development, construction and commissioning, to in-service support and decommissioning.
Throughout the programme and as a member of Devonport’s Facilities Engineering team, you’ll work alongside a network of engineers, technicians and specialists, and 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 - including onboard submarines. Every task you take on will help ensure the safety, reliability, and performance of critical national 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 across specialist teams such as Design Authority, Plant Management, Safety Case and Operational Support. These placements will combine working in offices, onboard submarines, and in supporting facilities and each placement is shaped around your interests and career goals, giving you broad technical exposure and the chance to build strong foundations in facilities engineering.
By the end of the programme, you’ll be well prepared to take on a permanent role as a Chemical and Process Engineer at Babcock, equipped with the skills, confidence and experience to make a real impact.
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 provide mentoring and cover all associated fees. You’ll also have access to structured development plans, support with Continuing Professional Development (CPD), and regular reviews with your line and placement managers to keep you on track.
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 bachelor’s or master’s degree in Chemical and/or Process Engineering or a relevant discipline.
- 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.
Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme in Plymouth employer: Babcock International
Join Babcock's Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme at Devonport, where you'll be part of a dynamic team dedicated to supporting the UK's naval capabilities. With a strong focus on employee development, you will receive tailored mentorship, access to technical training, and opportunities for professional growth, all while enjoying a supportive work culture that values your wellbeing and work-life balance. The comprehensive benefits package, including a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and flexible working options, makes this an exceptional place to launch your engineering career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme in Plymouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees or alumni from the programme on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research common questions for engineering roles and practice your answers. We recommend using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for engineering! During interviews, share specific projects or experiences that highlight your skills and enthusiasm for the field. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Devonport.
We think you need these skills to ace Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme in Plymouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Chemical and Process Engineering Graduate Programme. Highlight relevant coursework, projects, and any experience that aligns with the role. 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 express your passion for engineering and why you’re excited about working with us at Devonport. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we love seeing enthusiasm!
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your technical skills, especially in CAD and any engineering software you’ve used. Mention any hands-on experience or projects that demonstrate your capabilities. We’re looking for problem solvers who can think on their feet!
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 standing out. Head over to our website and submit your application today – we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babcock International
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Brush up on your fundamental knowledge of chemical and process engineering. Be prepared to discuss key concepts, processes, and technologies relevant to the role, especially those related to nuclear-implicated systems. This will show your passion and readiness for the programme.
✨Showcase Your CAD Skills
Since you'll be using Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, it’s a good idea to bring examples of your previous work or projects that involved CAD. Discuss how you approached design challenges and what tools you used, as this will demonstrate your technical capabilities.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that assess your problem-solving skills and understanding of engineering principles. Practice answering common engineering scenarios or case studies, and think about how you would approach real-world problems in the context of the Royal Navy's operations.
✨Express Your Interest in Continuous Learning
The programme offers extensive training and development opportunities. Be sure to express your enthusiasm for learning and professional growth. Mention any specific areas you’re keen to develop, such as safety case management or operational support, to align with their structured support system.
