Systems Engineering Graduate Programme

Overview

Systems Engineering Graduate Programme

Programme title: Systems 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: 66898

What will you do on the programme?

At Babcock, Systems Engineering is the glue that holds complex projects together. As a Graduate Systems Engineer, you’ll be at the centre of some of the UK’s most advanced engineering programmes – applying systems principles to ensure that every component, process and stakeholder aligns to deliver safe, effective and sustainable solutions.

Your work will shape systems that matter. You could be involved in designing and integrating cutting-edge submarines, converting military vehicles for new operational roles, refurbishing naval ships to extend their service life, developing secure satellite communication systems, or advancing next-generation nuclear power plants that support the UK’s net-zero goals. Each project presents unique systems challenges – and opportunities to make a real impact.

You’ll support work across various stages of the engineering lifecycle – from technology innovation and concept design to production, commissioning, in-service support, and decommissioning. You’ll help bring structure to complexity – defining requirements, managing interfaces and supporting integration across multidisciplinary teams. Through practical experience and structured development, you’ll build the skills to engage with stakeholders, understand system needs, identify and mitigate risks, and ensure systems meet requirements and are ready for the real world.

How is the programme structured?

Over two years, you’ll rotate through placements every three to six months, giving you the opportunity to explore a broad range of projects and teams. These rotations offer opportunities to broaden your experience – and some may even take you to different locations – helping you build your professional network and deepen your understanding of how the business operates.

Along the way, you’ll collaborate with experienced professionals across design, software, mechanical, construction, and electrical engineering, as well as in project management, quality assurance, and supply chain.

This experience will help you build a strong foundation in systems engineering, while gradually taking on greater responsibilities, such as leading small teams and overseeing projects. As you progress, you\\\’ll have the chance to align your placements with your interests and career goals, helping you build relevant experience in areas that matter most to you.

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 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?

• We accept a broad variety of degrees in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) based subjects.
• 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) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels – GOV.UK.

Where will you be based?

Places on our Systems Engineering graduate programme for Autumn 2026 are available in Plymouth.

Based at Devonport in Plymouth, the largest naval base in Western Europe, you’ll be part of a team that provides critical support to the Royal Navy’s surface ships and submarines. Here, you’ll contribute to projects such as life-extension programmes, capability upgrades, and the overhaul of nuclear-powered submarines.

You could be involved in optimising maintenance strategies, supporting the integration of new systems, or developing innovative solutions that ensure systems perform safely, efficiently, and in line with their design intent.

While you’ll join a specific business area and location, placements at different sites across the UK are possible. Agile working is supported, but you’ll be expected to work on-site multiple times a week. We encourage flexibility and openness to relocation throughout the programme and will consider your personal circumstances when arranging placements.

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.