Space Engineering

1 open programme View all

Salary

£35,000*

*Your starting salary will be at least £35,000, with the final amount based on your role, location, and qualifications.

Location

Across the UK

We offer placements in a variety of locations, including Bristol, Plymouth, Hawthorn and Oakhanger in England.

Applications close

Oct 16, 2025

To be sure you don’t miss out, apply early – applications may close sooner than advertised if interest is high.

Programme starts

Sep 1, 2026

Programme start dates may vary by location.

What will you do on the programme?

If you’re looking for variety, meaningful work and real-world impact, you’ll find it here. From the moment you join, you’ll be part of a team helping to shape the future of defence and space technology.

In Space Engineering at Babcock, you could work on satellite ground operations, develop secure communications technology, or contribute to next-generation space and electronic systems that support critical defence missions.

You may also work on SKYNET, the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MOD) military satellite communications system, supporting the operation of the UK’s satellites and ground stations to deliver 24/7 mission-critical communications.

How is the programme structured?

This two-year programme includes rotating placements every three to six months across Engineering, Communications, and Operations. You’ll gain experience leading and supporting projects through their full life-cycle, take ownership of meaningful tasks, and develop a deep understanding of how our engineering supports national defence – all while building the skills to shape your future career.

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.

Development and support

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.

Rewards and benefits

What do you need to apply?

  • An undergraduate or postgraduate degree in Space, Aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering.
  • 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 (www.gov.uk).

Where will you be based?

Places on our Space Engineering programme for Autumn 2026 are available in our Mission Systems business.

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.

Babcock’s Mission Systems business designs and delivers complex solutions for our customers, and in areas such as High Frequency Communications we are world leaders. Our circa 2,000 employees are involved in everything from maintaining satellites in space as part of our SKYNET contract, to electronic warfare, advanced manufacturing and technology solutions as well as services in and around disruptive technologies.

Current openings in
Space Engineering

Application guidance

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 strongly recommend submitting your application and completing any required online assessments as soon as possible.

Similar Programmes

Check out some of our other, related programmes. Whatever graduate programme you choose, you’ll get the chance to make a real impact.