Graduate Engineer

Graduate Engineer

Trainee 27000 - 27000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Port of Dover

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Join our team to gain hands-on experience in engineering and construction projects.
  • Company: Dynamic company focused on impactful infrastructure and port projects.
  • Benefits: Enjoy 5 weeks annual leave, private healthcare, and a generous pension scheme.
  • Other info: Structured development programme with excellent career growth opportunities.
  • Why this job: Develop your skills with mentorship while working on diverse, real-world projects.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Electronics or Sustainable Energy Engineering required.

The predicted salary is between 27000 - 27000 £ per year.

We are looking for motivated and curious Engineering Graduates to join our team and gain hands-on experience across the full lifecycle of engineering and construction projects delivered within a live, operational environment. This is a unique opportunity to develop your skills across a broad spectrum of disciplines, including project engineering, procurement, commercial awareness, health & safety, and CDM regulations. You’ll play an active role in supporting project development, from early stage concept through to delivery.

Working as part of a collaborative central team, you’ll contribute to the development of project scopes, carry out site-based activities, and support the successful delivery of programmes across our infrastructure and port environments. This Graduate position will be for 24 month duration.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct site surveys, measurements and condition assessments (structures, M&E, or assets)
  • Analyse data and translate findings into technical scopes of work and specifications
  • Support the creation of early-stage designs, drawings, diagrams, and 3D models
  • Review and evaluate technical and design submissions, providing clear feedback
  • Assist in the preparation of work instruction packs for supply chain pricing
  • Monitor project progress and contribute to planning, sequencing, and programming
  • Assess quality of works against approved designs and standards
  • Identify project risks and opportunities, supporting mitigation strategies
  • Review contractor documentation including risk assessments and method statements
  • Produce reports on project progress and outcomes
  • Support development of pre-construction and construction phase plans
  • Engage with your mentor and manager to drive your professional development
What We’re Looking ForQualifications & Knowledge
  • Degree in Electronics or Sustainable Energy Engineering
  • Strong interest in infrastructure, ports, or large-scale development projects
  • Proficiency in Microsoft 365 tools
  • Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills
  • Awareness of CDM regulations (desirable)
  • Exposure to or interest in AI applications in engineering (desirable)
Skills & Experience
  • Ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and communicate complex data
  • Organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities
  • Curious mindset with a willingness to learn and take on new challenges

Hours of work: Monday – Friday 37.5 p/w

Salary: £27k

Benefits
  • 5 weeks annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata)
  • Generous contributory pension scheme
  • Discretionary annual bonus scheme
  • Private Health Care
  • Life assurance
  • Employee assistance programme
  • 3rd party discounts
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Benefits and reward platform
  • Free Parking
  • Employee volunteering scheme
Why Join Us?
  • Gain exposure to end-to-end project delivery in a dynamic operational environment
  • Work on diverse and impactful infrastructure projects
  • Structured mentorship and development programme
  • Opportunity to build a strong foundation for a career in engineering and project management

All offers of employment are subject to us obtaining satisfactory references (covering all education, training, employment and unemployment in the preceding 5 years) and there will be a pre-employment medical including a Drug and Alcohol test. We need to satisfy your Right to Work in the UK. Please be aware that all employees will be subject to background security checks in order to obtain a Dock Pass.

We value the unique differences that each of our colleagues bring to work every day and are committed to creating an environment where everyone is looking after each other and respected, included and able to perform at their best. All applications are reviewed by our team - we do not use AI for screening.

Closing date: 13 July 2026 at 5pm

Graduate Engineer employer: Port of Dover

Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and collaboration, offering Graduate Engineers the chance to work on impactful infrastructure projects in a dynamic operational environment. With a structured mentorship programme, generous benefits including private healthcare and a contributory pension scheme, and a commitment to employee development, this role provides an excellent foundation for a rewarding career in engineering. Experience a supportive work culture that prioritises respect and inclusion, ensuring every team member can thrive.

Port of Dover

Contact Details:

Port of Dover Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Graduate Engineer

Get Hands-On Experience

Dive into practical projects, even if they're DIY at home or in your community. Many engineering firms are impressed by real-world application, so build something cool and document it! Showing action is way more impactful than just talking about theories.

Join Engineering Societies and Clubs

Get involved with engineering clubs at your university or local societies. These communities often host events, workshops, and networking opportunities that can lead you to internships or traineeships. Plus, you'll meet like-minded folks and get a chance to show off your enthusiasm!

Connect with Alumni from Your Programme

Don’t underestimate the power of university connections! Reach out to alumni who’ve ventured into engineering roles. They might have insider tips or even know of traineeship opportunities at places like Port of Dover. A warm introduction can often go a long way.

Apply Early and Often

Trainee positions can fill up fast, so get your applications in as soon as you spot them! Keep an eye on our website for openings at companies like Port of Dover. The earlier you apply, the more chances you’ll have to stand out!

We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Engineer

Site Surveying
Data Analysis
Technical Scope Development
3D Modelling
Project Planning
Risk Assessment
Report Writing

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Technical Skills:As you’re applying for a trainee role in engineering, make sure to list your relevant technical skills prominently on your CV. Include any specific software or tools you’ve used (like CAD software) and mention specific projects or coursework that showcases your hands-on experience. We want to see what you’ve done and what you can bring to the table!

Get Personal with Your Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your passion for engineering and why you’re excited about the opportunity at Port of Dover. Talk about what drives you and any specific areas of engineering you're keen on exploring further. We love to see your motivation and how you plan to grow in this role. Tailor it to us, and we’ll notice!

Highlight Your Educational Journey:Since this is a trainee position, your educational background is key! Make sure to mention not just your degree, but any relevant certifications or additional training you’ve taken. If you're a recent graduate or still studying, we want to see how your studies connect to this role in engineering.

Include Group Projects or Internships:If you’ve worked on any group projects or have had internships, make sure to call them out in your application. Collaboration is vital in engineering, so we want to see how well you’ve worked with others in real-world scenarios. Sharing this experience can set you apart from other trainees applying to Port of Dover!

How to prepare for a job interview at Port of Dover

Speak the Lingo

Engineering is packed with technical jargon, so brush up on relevant terminology. Whether it's CAD software or the basics of thermodynamics, you might be asked to explain concepts or tools you're familiar with. Using the right language shows you're not just a newbie but someone who's got a genuine interest in the field!

Problem-Solving in Action

Expect technical questions or scenarios where you’ll be asked to solve engineering problems. Practise logic puzzles or review relevant project cases you've worked on, even if they're part of your studies. Showcasing your critical thinking skills is key, especially in a trainee position where they want to see your potential!

Show Us Your Projects

As a trainee, your portfolio might not be extensive, but bring along any relevant projects you’ve completed during your studies. Highlighting your hands-on experience, even if it’s from coursework or internships, gives the interviewers at Port of Dover a tangible taste of your skills and what you can bring to their team.

Be Ready to Learn

In a trainee role, demonstrating a willingness to learn is crucial. Be prepared to discuss how you handle feedback and adapt to new challenges, as this is a trait many companies, including Port of Dover, will be looking for. They want to see that you’re not just eager to hit the ground running, but also keen to grow within the engineering field!