Naval Architecture Graduate Programme

We Served; Bristol; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking graduates for their Naval Architecture Graduate Programme. Starting with a salary of £35,000, you will participate in a structured two-year program working on high-profile naval projects. Ideal candidates should have degrees in Naval Architecture or related fields, and the program offers comprehensive support and benefits, including 25 days of holiday, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth. Be part of a pivotal team ensuring the UK's naval capabilities are upheld.

Benefits

Minimum 25 days of holiday

Generous pension and employee share schemes

Flexible benefits including cycle to work scheme

Wellbeing support

Qualifications

• A degree accredited by RINA/IMarEST is preferred.
• Ability to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Security Check (SC) clearance.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to complex engineering projects.
• Work across various teams in hydrodynamics, structures, and design.
• Receive structured support and mentorship to help develop your career.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

Degree in Naval Architecture

Degree in Ship Science

Degree in Maritime/Marine Engineering

Degree in Marine Technology

Job description

Naval Architecture Graduate Programme

Programme title: Naval Architecture Graduate Programme

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

Location: Babcock Technology Centre, Bristol

Application closing date: 8th January 2026

Programme start date: September 2026

Role ID: 66894

What will you do on the programme?

As a Graduate Naval Architect at Babcock, you’ll play a part in some of the most complex and exciting engineering projects in the world today. You’ll be involved in a wide range of work that will help you build expertise across the many aspects of naval architecture.

Your projects could involve anything from helping us dock a 16,000-tonne nuclear submarine, to assessing the strength of an aircraft carrier’s flight deck for F35 Lightning landings. You might analyse mooring arrangements for a new frigate, design systems to withstand explosive events, or define stability requirements for a submarine surfacing through polar ice. Whatever you’re working on, you’ll learn directly from some of the most respected naval architects and structural engineers in the industry.

Along the way, you’ll gain expertise in analysing and designing all aspects of floating vessels and structures, from hull form and stability to propulsion and human factors. Whether supporting frontline capability or pioneering new technologies, you’ll be trusted to make a meaningful impact from the very beginning.

How is the programme structured?

The Naval Architecture Graduate Programme runs for two years and is designed to give you breadth and depth of experience across the discipline. You’ll move through a series of placements, each lasting a few months, giving you the chance to work in different teams and explore areas such as hydrodynamics, structures, design, stability and safety.

These placements may take you to different areas of the business, from supporting submarine sustainment to working on surface ships or marine infrastructure projects. The variety ensures you see the full scope of naval architecture in practice and understand how each discipline contributes to successful project delivery.

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 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?

• We accept degrees in Naval Architecture, Ship Science, Maritime/Marine Engineering, Marine Technology, and Ship Building.
• A degree accredited by RINA/IMarEST is preferred.
• 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 Naval Architecture programme for Autumn 2026 are available in Bristol.

Our business in Bristol is a key strategic partner to our customers – the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and the Royal Navy. We ensure that the UK Royal Navy goes to sea safely by sustaining the submarines with updates, design and documentation, upgrades and overhauls. We are developing innovative Operations Centres, technology insertion programmes, predictive data analytics and visualisation and training aids using games engine technologies.

Your home base will be Babcock Technology Centre in Bristol. Here, you’ll work on a wide array of activities, from cutting‑edge naval projects to commercial vessels and advanced maritime platforms.

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.