Software Engineering

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 work in our Liquid Gas Equipment (LGE) business or in Mission Systems to gain experience across different technologies and projects.

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.

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 BEng/BSc (Hons) degree in Software Engineering or Computer Science.
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?

Select one of the locations below to find out about the different areas of our business that are offering places on our Software 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, where possible and appropriate, flexibility and openness to relocation throughout the programme and will consider your personal circumstances when arranging placements.

Marine – LGE – Rosyth, Scotland

Rosyth is home to Babcock’s Liquid Gas Equipment (LGE) business, delivering world-leading, environmentally focused cargo handling and fuel gas solutions to shipyards and ship-owners in the commercial marine industry. As a graduate, you’ll design and develop robust user interfaces and industry-leading digital systems, enabling remote process monitoring, AI-driven optimisation, and predictive maintenance.

Mission Systems – Bristol, Plymouth, Hawthorn or Oakhanger

If you’re interested in electronic systems, advanced manufacturing, and disruptive technologies, Mission Systems is where you’ll thrive. Based in Bristol, or at sites in Plymouth, Hawthorn or Oakhanger, 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.

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

Drawn to creating robust user interfaces and pioneering digital systems? Our LGE business in Rosyth, Scotland, delivers world-class, environmentally-focused cargo handling and fuel gas solutions – and could be your ideal fit.
Fascinated by electronics, advanced technologies, or space and satellite systems?
Mission Systems (Bristol, Plymouth, Hawthorn or Oakhanger) is where innovation meets high-tech engineering.

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

Current openings in
Software 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.