Systems Engineering Programme

Systems Engineering Graduate Programme 

Programme title: Systems 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 Devonport in Plymouth.

Application closing date: 20 October 2026

Programme start date: September 2027

Role ID: 74499

What will you do on the programme?

At Babcock, Systems Engineering is the glue that holds complex projects together. As a Graduate Systems Engineer, you’ll be at the centre of some of the UK’s most advanced engineering programmes - applying systems principles to ensure that every component, process and stakeholder aligns to deliver safe, effective and sustainable solutions. 

Your work will shape systems that matter. You could be involved in designing and integrating cutting-edge submarines, converting military vehicles for new operational roles, refurbishing naval ships to extend their service life, infrastructure to support the refit of nuclear submarines, developing secure satellite communication systems, or advancing next-generation nuclear power plants that support the UK’s net-zero goals. Each project presents unique systems challenges – and opportunities to make a real impact.

You’ll support work across various stages of the engineering lifecycle – from technology innovation and concept design to production, commissioning, in-service support, and decommissioning. You’ll help bring structure to complexity - defining requirements, managing interfaces and supporting integration across multidisciplinary teams. Through practical experience and structured development, you’ll build the skills to engage with stakeholders, understand system needs, identify and mitigate risks, and ensure systems meet requirements and are ready for the real world.

How is the programme structured?

Over two years, you’ll rotate through placements every three to six months, giving you the opportunity to explore a broad range of projects and teams. 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.

Along the way, you’ll collaborate with experienced professionals across a range of disciplines, which may include engineering design, software, mechanical, construction, and electrical engineering, as well as in project management, quality assurance, and supply chain.

This experience will help you build a strong foundation in systems engineering, while gradually taking on greater responsibilities, such as leading small teams and overseeing projects. As you progress, you'll have the chance to align your placements with your interests and career goals, helping you build relevant experience in areas that matter most to you.

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 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, which can support your journey into more advanced roles, such as Senior Engineer. 

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 a STEM discipline. We welcome applicants from a broad range of subjects, including Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and emerging technology fields such as AI, Machine Learning, Robotics, and Cybernetics.      
• 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’.    

Where will you be based?

Places on our Systems Engineering programme for September 2027 are available in our Marine sector and in our Mission Technologies team in Bristol or Plymouth. 

Marine - Bristol or Plymouth

Join our Marine sector in Bristol or Plymouth and contribute to the development of advanced technologies that enable safer, smarter and more connected operations worldwide. You’ll work on the design, development and integration of communications systems, electronic warfare capabilities and other technologies used across naval and maritime platforms. Working alongside experienced engineers, you’ll tackle complex engineering challenges, drive innovation and help shape the future of naval capability.

Mission Technologies – Bristol or Plymouth

If you’re interested in advanced manufacturing, and disruptive technologies, Mission Technologies is where you’ll thrive. Based in Bristol or Plymouth, you could be involved in the design and delivery of advanced communications systems, electronic warfare capabilities, or satellite operations supporting 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.  

While you’ll join a specific business area and location, placements at different sites across the UK are possible. We encourage flexibility and openness to relocation throughout the programme and will consider your personal circumstances when arranging placements. 

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 require additional support or adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know when you apply. Our team will contact you after receiving your application to discuss your requirements and the support 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.