Software Engineering Graduate in Hatfield

Looking to kickstart your career and make a global impact? Join Ocado Group’s Graduate Programme and become a driving force in the future of technology. Ocado Group delivers innovative technology solutions powered by the latest advancements in automation, robotics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, catering to the online grocery and non-grocery distribution sectors. With over 20 years of experience in the online grocery industry and a portfolio of patented technologies, we strive to transform the economics and service standards of grocery ecommerce on a global scale. A workplace culture that celebrates diversity, collaboration, and creativity.

The Software Engineering Graduate Programme 2026:

• Start Date: Early September 2026
• Closing date for applications: Rolling
• Duration of Programme: 2 years
• Contract Type: Fixed-term, full-time

Requirements: We consider candidates from a wide range of academic backgrounds. We will consider any candidate who demonstrates typical understanding. Candidates typically have degrees related to (but not limited to) Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, AI, Robotics, Machine Learning etc.

Location: Hatfield, Welwyn, and London (hybrid). We follow a hybrid working model, combining remote work with office presence based on the placement and business requirements. A minimum of two days per week in the office is expected.

The Software Engineering Graduate Programme:

Our rotation scheme is designed to give you first‑hand experience of a range of areas from Bot Software to Data Science. As a graduate, you will rotate through multiple departments during the two‑year scheme in four different six‑month placements, giving you a well‑rounded understanding of the business. You’ll work in teams across the Ocado Technology division, gaining knowledge and insight into the vast number of challenges. Once you’ve successfully completed the programme, you can look forward to a long‑term career with a huge amount of scope and knowledge from across the business.

Here are some of the areas you could be working in on the scheme:

• Bot Software & Hardware: Teams are at the cutting edge of product development. Our engineers focus on the successful delivery of next‑generation bot software. We are a team that does what needs to be done, by identifying gaps in our current bot systems and working with talented engineers across our business to prototype and deliver quality products. We are working on niche projects, all contributing to the improvement of our robots.
• The eCommerce stream: Creates the eCommerce solution that powers the Ocado Smart Platform. From the secret sauce that drives our 35 million customer searches and product recommendations, to our market‑leading delivery punctuality and order accuracy. Our Mobile teams work closely with our Web teams where we plan & participate in the development of our customer‑facing, native iOS app, to be used by millions of people all over the world. Each team is cross‑functional; comprising Android, iOS, and backend engineers, product managers, UX designers, and data scientists, to name a few, working together to deliver features to a high standard.
• Our Fulfilment stream: Develops the warehouse management system, high level control systems and GUIs driving our automated warehouses. Fulfilling customer orders with extremely high accuracy and market leading efficiency. Technical challenges range from very low latency real‑time control systems, through performance optimised operator GUIs to high accuracy inventory tracking.
• Data organisation: The organisation cuts across all technology streams, providing data engineering and analysis expertise as well as developing cutting edge ML models in use across our products. It also supports our simulation and visualisation functions, creating simulations of Ocado's OSP solution, including its automated warehouses, used to both optimise control algorithms and robotic operations to increase the site performance and trial new hardware designs before physical construction.

What are we looking for:

• Having a real passion for quality coding and cutting edge technology
• Being a logical thinker
• Embodying a collaborative approach to projects
• Not being afraid to think outside of the box

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands‑on experience through rotational placements across key business areas.
• A personalised learning journey, designed to accelerate your growth and career development.

Development Opportunities: Throughout the programme, you will have development opportunities designed to help you grow as a purposeful leader. It’s a chance to challenge yourself, build confidence, and collaborate with graduates from across the business while exploring how to make a real impact. In your second year, you’ll also have opportunities to volunteer, get involved in wider initiatives, expand your professional network, and receive support to prepare for the next stage of your career.

25 days annual leave, with the option to purchase more. Work up to 30 days per year from anywhere in the world. Free shuttle service from Hatfield Train Station. Competitive pension, share schemes, and private medical insurance. Exclusive discounts on retailers, gyms, cinemas, and more.

How to Apply: Our application process is designed to showcase your unique strengths. We’ll guide you every step of the way:

• Online Application: Share your story and aspirations.
• Video Interview: Let us get to know you better.
• Online Tests: Show us your problem‑solving skills.
• Assessment Centre: Collaborate with peers and demonstrate your abilities.

Join us on this journey. At Group, we celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. This role does not qualify for Skilled Worker Sponsorship and is subject to your right to work in the UK for the full duration of the programme. Build a career with everyday pioneers. If you’re ready to transform the way the world shops, apply today! We’re reviewing applications on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply soon as the role may close at any time.

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