Materials Engineering Graduate Programme

Overview

Materials Engineering Graduate Programme

Programme title: Materials Engineering Graduate Programme

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: 66961

What will you do on the programme?

Our Materials Engineering Graduate Programme offers you the chance to put a genuine passion for materials science, engineering and metallurgy into action.

You’ll support some of the UK’s most important defence programmes, playing a role in maintaining the safety, capability and longevity of both submarine and surface ship platforms. From the earliest design stages through to build, operation and eventual decommissioning, you’ll be part of teams that solve complex engineering problems and shape the future of naval technology.

Your work could take you into additive manufacturing, creating innovative materials designs, refining mechanised welding processes, or contributing to specialist research in inspection, testing and joining techniques. Each project will challenge you to apply your technical knowledge in new ways, working with experts across different disciplines to deliver solutions that meet the needs of the Royal Navy and the Ministry of Defence.

Along the way, you’ll gain exposure to some of the most advanced engineering environments in the UK. You’ll see how critical materials decisions influence performance, safety and sustainability, and you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing your work supports the security of the nation.

How is the programme structured?

Over two years, you’ll take on a series of placements that give you a complete picture of materials engineering in a marine defence context. You’ll rotate through areas such as Metallurgy and Materials, Welding Design and Non-Destructive Testing, each offering new experiences and opportunities to learn.

You’ll also have the chance to collaborate with other sectors and sites, giving you a broader view of our end-to-end operations and how different teams work together to deliver complex programmes. This variety will help you discover where your strengths and interests lie, while building a wide network of professional connections.

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.

To support your journey toward Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status, we offer full 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?

• A BEng or BSc (Hons) degree in Materials Engineering or Materials Science is preferred.
• Other relevant engineering degrees may also be considered, including Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering and Naval Architecture, particularly if supported by postgraduate study in a materials discipline or work experience focused on materials, welding, joining, testing or corrosion.
• Industrial experience or placements are desirable, along with a clear interest in a career in materials, marine engineering or defence, and an understanding of its challenges.
• Experience of technical or engineering standards and regulations is beneficial, including those relating to nuclear, health, safety or the environment.
• 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 (NNPI) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK.

Where will you be based?

Places on our Materials Engineering Graduate Programme for Autumn 2026 are available in our Marine/Nuclear sector in Plymouth.

Based at Devonport in Plymouth, the largest naval base in Western Europe, you’ll be part of the team that delivers critical support to the Royal Navy’s surface ships and submarines. Here, you could work on materials analysis for life-extension projects, develop welding and joining solutions for the overhaul of nuclear-powered submarines, or contribute to inspection and testing programmes that support the integration of advanced systems onboard.

We ask our graduates to be flexible as there is the potential to undertake placements in other locations during their programme.

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.