At a Glance
- Tasks: Support military equipment development and conduct cutting-edge research on human behaviour.
- Company: Join a dynamic Human Performance team in defence and security.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, flexible benefits, and on-demand learning opportunities.
- Other info: Participate in a two-year graduate programme with excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on national security while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Ergonomics, or related fields required.
The predicted salary is between 33750 - 33750 € per year.
The Human Performance team is looking for a Psychology or Human Factors/Ergonomics graduate to join them. As part of the team, you will contribute to a broad range of research and consultancy projects for defence and security, covering human factors engineering, usability, human cognition, command and control, cyber, and behaviour change.
What will you be doing?
- Supporting the development of military equipment and vehicles to meet the needs of the end‑user
- Conducting cutting edge research into understanding and influencing human behaviour
- Assessing cyber vulnerabilities of important systems
- Conducting trials and experiments
- Supporting the protection of critical national infrastructure
- Contributing to challenging, high‑profile science and technology programmes in the UK
- Working in multidisciplinary teams delivering projects in defence and security
- Determining the best way for customers to exploit novel and emerging technologies
- Participating in a two‑year graduate programme to develop technical and leadership skills
- Gaining access to training to further technical expertise
- Getting the opportunity to support community projects, e.g. as a STEM ambassador to local schools
Academic requirements
Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree with a key focus on any of the following disciplines: Psychology (or a related field), Ergonomics, Human Factors.
Additional skills and experience
Desirable (but not necessary) skills, qualifications or experience in any of the following areas:
- Anthropology
- Coding
- Behavioural Analytics
- Cognitive Psychology
- Cyber Psychology
- Experiment Design
- Human Factors / Human Factors Integration
- Neuroscience
- Occupational/Organisational Psychology
- Management Science
- Sociology
- Statistics
- Usability / UX
Additionally, you should be willing to learn and have demonstrated an aptitude for learning at pace.
How to apply
Please fill in the application and include both a CV and a covering letter.
Our Benefits
- On demand learning via multiple digital platforms
- Coaching and mentoring
- 25 days annual holiday excluding bank holidays
- Matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance
- Flexible benefits package
- Employee discount portal
- Employee assistance programme
- Employee‑led networks
Security
Many of our roles are subject to national security vetting. Applicants who already hold the appropriate level of vetting may transfer it upon appointment, subject to approval. All applicants must be eligible for SC clearance at a minimum. Guidance on clearances can be found at the UKSV National Security Vetting Solution. Please note that under immigration rules, early careers roles do not meet the threshold for candidates resident in the UK on student visas.
Recruitment Process
We aim to make the recruitment process inclusive and supportive. If you have a disability or health condition that may affect your performance in certain assessment types, please speak to your recruiter about reasonable adjustments.
Closing date for new applications: 5th June 2026
Psychology or Human Factors/Ergonomics Graduate employer: QinetiQ
Join a forward-thinking team in Farnborough, where your role as a Psychology or Human Factors/Ergonomics graduate will not only contribute to vital defence and security projects but also foster your professional growth through a comprehensive two-year graduate programme. Enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises continuous learning, offers flexible benefits, and encourages community engagement, making it an excellent place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Psychology or Human Factors/Ergonomics Graduate
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the Human Factors and Ergonomics field on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, attend webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its projects thoroughly. Think about how your skills in psychology or ergonomics can contribute to their work in defence and security. We want you to shine, so practice common interview questions and have your own ready to ask!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion! Whether it’s through a personal project, blog, or even volunteering as a STEM ambassador, demonstrate your commitment to the field. We love seeing candidates who go the extra mile to engage with the community and stay updated on trends.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we often have exclusive opportunities listed there. Don’t miss out on your chance to join our amazing team in Farnborough!
We think you need these skills to ace Psychology or Human Factors/Ergonomics Graduate
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant skills and experiences in psychology or human factors. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your projects or coursework that relate to defence and security.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about human behaviour and how you can contribute to our team. We love seeing enthusiasm, so let your personality come through while keeping it professional.
Showcase Your Learning Mindset:We’re looking for candidates who are eager to learn and grow. In your application, mention any experiences where you’ve had to adapt quickly or learn new skills. This will show us that you’re ready to take on the challenges of the graduate programme.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at QinetiQ
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on key concepts in psychology, human factors, and ergonomics. Familiarise yourself with recent research and trends in these fields, especially as they relate to defence and security. This will show your passion and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Skills
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or experiences you've had, particularly those involving research, experiment design, or usability testing. Be ready to explain how these experiences have equipped you for the challenges of the role.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the team’s current projects, the technologies they’re exploring, or how they measure success in their work. It shows you're engaged and genuinely interested in the position.
✨Demonstrate Your Learning Mindset
Since the role requires a willingness to learn, be prepared to share examples of how you've quickly picked up new skills or knowledge in the past. Highlight your adaptability and eagerness to grow within the company.
