Civil and Structural Engineering

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.

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?

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 (www.gov.uk). For our early careers roles, you must be able to achieve BPSS and many of them require you to be eligible for Security Clearance.

Where will you be based?

Select one of the locations below to find out about the different areas of our business that are offering places on our Civil and Structural Engineering Graduate Programme for Autumn 2026.

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.

Cavendish Nuclear – 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.

Marine/Nuclear – HM Naval Base Clyde, Scotland

As part of our Nuclear sector, Babcock’s HM Naval Base Clyde operation provides highly specialist engineering support services, including the management of critical infrastructure and nuclear facilities. We also deliver operational maintenance, upgrades and repairs to support Royal Navy vessels, including the Vanguard and Astute-Class nuclear submarines based in Scotland.
Here you’ll help design, inspect, and maintain vital dockyard and waterfront infrastructure that supports the Royal Navy’s submarine fleet. Whether you’re working on routine maintenance, modernisation, or cutting-edge upgrades, you’ll be right at the centre of a critical defence capability.

Not sure which business area to apply for? Here's a quick guide to help you decide:

Passionate about supporting the Royal Navy? Help modernise and sustain infrastructure at HM Naval Base Clyde (Scotland).
Curious about the UK’s nuclear future? At Cavendish Nuclear, you’ll get the chance to work on projects that protect our nation, secure our energy supply, and support our journey to net zero.

No matter where you start, you’ll gain valuable experience – and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Current openings in
Civil and Structural Engineering

Location:

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.