At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a hands-on 18-month programme, rotating through key teams in design and construction.
- Company: Major UK housebuilding and construction business with a focus on integrity and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, up to 34 days holiday, private medical insurance, and strong career progression.
- Why this job: Gain real responsibility and confidence while making an impact in the construction industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant subject, strong communication skills, and a passion for design and construction.
- Other info: Engage with a graduate network and support future graduates in their journey.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This Design & Technical Graduate Programme is ideal for graduates with a genuine interest in architecture, engineering, construction, or design, who want broad exposure across a major UK housebuilding and construction business. Over an 18-month rotational programme, starting September 2026, you’ll gain hands-on experience across multiple core business areas, developing into a well-rounded technical professional with a clear pathway into a permanent Design & Technical role.
You’ll be based in Exeter and rotate through the following teams: The programme starts and finishes within the Technical function, with a strong opportunity to transition into a permanent technical role at completion. Due to high interest, applications may close early.
Key Criteria (What We’re Looking For)- Degree (or expected degree) 2:2 or above in a relevant subject such as: Civil / Structural Engineering, Design or related technical disciplines
- Full UK driving licence (or working towards one)
- Willingness to travel locally as part of the role
- Strong interest in construction, design and technical delivery
- Right to work in the UK without sponsorship
- Placement year, internship or site experience (not essential)
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Curiosity, initiative and a willingness to learn
- Organised, proactive and comfortable working across teams
- Complete structured rotations across technical, commercial and construction teams
- Learn how design, planning, engineering and delivery connect in real projects
- Support live developments and contribute to key business initiatives
- Build strong working relationships across multidisciplinary teams
- Actively seek learning opportunities, ask questions and take ownership of your development
- Contribute ideas to improve processes, quality and delivery
- Engage with a graduate peer network through masterclasses, events and development sessions
- Represent the business at careers events and early-talent initiatives
- Support and mentor future graduates joining the programme
- Work in line with company values focused on Integrity, Quality and Care
- Competitive graduate salary + annual bonus
- Up to 34 days holiday + bank holidays, rising with service
- Private medical insurance (optional employee cover)
- Enhanced family leave policies
- Pension via salary sacrifice
- Life assurance (4x salary)
- Share save and incentive schemes
- Two paid volunteering days per year
- Access to professional qualifications and further study
- Strong long-term career progression in Design & Technical
This is a proper graduate scheme — not box-ticking. You’ll see the full lifecycle of a development, understand how technical decisions impact cost and buildability, and leave the programme with real responsibility, confidence and direction.
Associate Technical Designer in Exeter employer: GradBay
Contact Detail:
GradBay Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Technical Designer in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, and don’t be shy about reaching out to alumni from your university. Building relationships can open doors that applications alone can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show genuine interest in their work and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their needs. We want to see your passion for construction and design!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Whether it’s through mock interviews or casual chats with friends, being able to articulate your thoughts clearly is key. Remember, collaboration is crucial in this field, so show us you can work well with others.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Technical Designer in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your genuine interest in architecture, engineering, and design. Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your enthusiasm for the field. This is your chance to stand out!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Highlight any teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills you've developed, as these are key for us.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re excited about this programme. Be specific about what you hope to learn and how you can contribute to our teams. A personal touch goes a long way!
Apply Early: Due to high interest, we might close applications early. Don’t wait until the last minute! Head over to our website and submit your application as soon as you can to secure your chance.
How to prepare for a job interview at GradBay
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the basics of civil and structural engineering, as well as design principles. Familiarise yourself with the company’s projects and values, especially their focus on integrity, quality, and care. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your knowledge to their work.
✨Show Your Curiosity
During the interview, don’t hesitate to ask questions about the programme and the teams you'll be rotating through. This demonstrates your eagerness to learn and engage with the role. Think of specific areas you’re curious about, like how design impacts construction or what challenges they face in current projects.
✨Highlight Teamwork Skills
Since the role involves collaboration across multidisciplinary teams, share examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked in a team. Discuss how you contributed to group projects or resolved conflicts, showcasing your strong communication and collaboration skills.
✨Be Proactive and Organised
Prepare a few ideas on how you could contribute to improving processes or quality within the company. This shows initiative and that you’re already thinking about how to add value. Also, come prepared with a clear plan for your own development during the programme, demonstrating your proactive approach.