Civil and Structural Engineering Graduate Programme

Civil and Structural Engineering Graduate Programme

Programme title: Civil and Structural Engineering Graduate Programme

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

Location: Bristol or Warrington

Application closing date: 16 October 2025

Programme start date: September 2026

Role ID: 66942

What will you do on the programme?

Civil and structural engineering is about shaping the world around us – designing, building and maintaining the infrastructure that society depends on every day. It’s about making sure structures are strong, stable and safe. At Babcock, you’ll put these principles into practice on projects that truly matter.

As a graduate, you’ll contribute to high-profile infrastructure and defence projects across naval and nuclear operations. You could help build the next generation of nuclear power stations, modernise dockyards to support a modern naval fleet, or maintain critical facilities that keep the UK’s defence and energy sectors running smoothly. You’ll be involved in designing, constructing and maintaining complex infrastructure, ensuring buildings and structures are robust, resilient and fit for purpose.

You’ll be part of a team delivering smarter, safer infrastructure that makes a real difference to the UK’s defence and energy future.

How is the programme structured?

This is an exciting two-year programme made up of a series of placements designed to give you broad experience across civil and structural engineering.

You’ll rotate through different teams and projects, developing your knowledge of structural assessments, design documentation, compliance processes and operational site support. These rotations offer opportunities to broaden your experience – and some may even take you to different locations – helping you build your professional network and deepen your understanding of how the business operates. 

Each placement gives you the chance to apply what you’ve learned, take on real responsibilities and discover the areas of the discipline that interest you most.

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 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, with agile working options subject to discussion with your manager
• 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?

• A degree in Civil and Coastal Engineering, Civil and Structural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Material Science and Metallurgy, or an Engineering degree with Civil, Structural or Architectural content.
• Many of our graduate 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 Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance. Further details are available at United Kingdom Security Vetting: clearance levels - GOV.UK.

Where will you be based?

Places on our Civil and Structural Engineering graduate programme for Autumn 2026 are available at Cavendish Nuclear in Bristol or Warrington.

Joining Cavendish Nuclear means getting involved in some of the most important engineering projects in the UK – and beyond. You could be working on the decommissioning of legacy nuclear sites, supporting the construction and operation of cutting-edge nuclear power plants, or helping sustain our national defence through work on the UK’s nuclear deterrent.

Whether you're based in Bristol or Warrington, you'll be helping to clean up the nuclear legacy and create a world where nuclear plays a key contribution in protecting our nation, ensuring security of energy supply and meeting our net zero commitments. 

While you’ll join a specific business area and location, placements at different sites across the UK are possible. Agile working is supported, but you’ll be expected to work on-site multiple times a week. We encourage flexibility and openness to relocation throughout the programme and will consider your personal circumstances when arranging placements.

Ready to apply?

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if we receive a high volume of interest. To give yourself the best chance of being considered, we strongly recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.

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