Software Engineering Graduate Programme

Software Engineering Graduate Programme 

Programme title: Software Engineering Graduate Programme 

Salary: Minimum £35,000. Salary is dependent on location, role and qualifications.

Location: Bristol Hub (Ashton House and Babcock Technology Centre) or Ashchurch in Gloucestershire.

Application closing date: 20 October 2026

Programme start date: September 2027

Role ID: 74497

What will you do on the programme?

The systems we design rely on high-performance software that works flawlessly, even in the most demanding conditions. On this programme, you’ll discover how to design, develop, and test software that can do exactly that.

Projects can vary widely – from something as focused as an audio console, to something as large-scale as the software for a handling system on a submarine.

You could be developing cutting-edge software that brings complex engineering systems to life. This might include designing intuitive user interfaces, building platforms for remote monitoring and control, or applying AI and machine learning to enhance performance and anticipate maintenance needs.

Alternatively, your work might focus on advanced technologies that support secure communications, intelligent sensing, or space-based operations – developing solutions that are critical to safety, resilience, and innovation.

Whatever you’re working on, you’ll be part of a multi-disciplinary team, learning how software interacts with wider systems and building the skills to deliver secure, reliable, and fully integrated solutions.

How is the programme structured?

This two-year programme is designed to give you both breadth and depth in software engineering. You could gain experience across a diverse range of technologies and projects, from advanced communications systems and electronic warfare capabilities to secure satellite operations that support national defence.

By the end of the programme, you’ll have a solid technical foundation, practical experience, and the skills needed for a successful career in software engineering.

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 full guidance and cover all associated fees.

What’s waiting for you after the programme?

Once you complete the programme, you’ll move into a permanent role within our Engineering Function, where you can continue applying and expanding the skills you've developed. You’ll also have the opportunity to build on your progress toward professional registration, a recognised benchmark of engineering competence.  

As your experience and expertise grow, this can support your longer-term career development and progression into more advanced roles within our Software Development and Test function, including opportunities to work towards positions such as Senior Engineer, Senior Developer or Tester over time.

As a global organisation, Babcock provides countless opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career. To support your growth, we've introduced the Babcock Role Framework, which outlines roles, career pathways, and development opportunities. With every job mapped to these frameworks, you’ll have a transparent view of the steps needed to reach Senior Engineer and beyond.

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
• 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?

• You'll need to have achieved, or be on track to achieve, a BEng, MEng, BSc, or MSc in one of the following subjects: Computer Science, Software, or Electronic & Software.  
• Many of our 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 and maintain Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) security clearance. For further details, visit GOV.UK and search ‘United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels’.
• Under applicable national security legislation, this post may only be occupied by a sole UK national. This legal requirement is independent of our recruitment policies, and all eligible applicants will be assessed fairly and without discrimination.

Where will you be based?

Places on our Software Engineering programme for September 2027 are available in our Mission Technologies business.   

If you're interested in electronic systems, advanced manufacturing, and disruptive technologies, Mission Technologies is where you’ll thrive. Based in Bristol or Ashchurch, you could be working on the design and delivery of advanced communications systems, electronic warfare capabilities, or supporting satellite operations for national defence. This is a hub for innovation, where engineers help shape the future of defence technology and support global clients across land, sea, air, and space. 

Agile working is supported, but you’ll be expected to work on-site multiple times a week.  

Application process and important information

Applications are reviewed in the order they are received, and if there’s a high level of interest in this programme, we may close applications earlier than advertised. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.

Please apply to one programme only. If we receive more than one application from you, we’ll assess the first one submitted. If your chosen programme becomes oversubscribed, we may contact you to discuss other programmes you could be eligible for.

We're a Disability Confident Employer. If you need adjustments or support at any stage, please let us know. Contact us at accesshelp@babcockinternational.com to discuss your needs and explore the options available. We’re committed to building an inclusive culture where everyone’s free to thrive. We are happy to talk about flexible working – please ask about alternative patterns of work at interview.