Nuclear Safety Engineering and Operations Management

Embark on a Critical Career in Nuclear Safety and Operations Engineering

This Nuclear Safety and Operations Engineering Graduate Programme presents a compelling opportunity for ambitious STEM graduates looking to build a career at the forefront of national defence and innovation. Based at the historic Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth, you will play a vital role in ensuring the safe operation, maintenance, and development of nuclear and radiological facilities. This programme is more than just a job; it's a pathway to developing essential skills, contributing to vital national infrastructure, and shaping your future in a highly specialised and impactful field.

Key Advantages for Aspiring Engineers:

• Meaningful and Varied Work: From day one, you'll be immersed in real-world projects, contributing directly to the safety of people and the environment. Your responsibilities will be diverse, encompassing everything from reviewing designs against stringent safety standards to conducting hazard analyses, performing risk assessments, and collaborating with expert teams to solve complex operational challenges.
• Structured Development and Exploration: The two-year programme is meticulously designed to provide a robust foundation. The initial 18 months feature rotational placements (3-4 months each) across different business areas, allowing you to explore various facets of nuclear safety and operations. This structured approach is invaluable for identifying your strengths and passions, guiding your career trajectory.
• Expert Mentorship and Training: You will be surrounded by and learn from industry leaders, including seasoned safety case authors, plant and operations managers, human factors consultants, and radiation protection advisors. This continuous learning environment, coupled with dedicated mentorship, ensures you receive comprehensive guidance.
• Career Progression and Professional Recognition: A significant advantage of this programme is the commitment to supporting your journey towards Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status. All guidance and associated fees are covered, providing a clear and well-supported path for professional accreditation.
• Comprehensive Benefits and Wellbeing Support: Beyond a competitive starting salary of at least £35,000 (dependent on location, role, and qualifications), you'll benefit from a generous holiday allowance, a strong pension scheme, employee share options, and flexible benefits such as a cycle to work scheme. A strong emphasis is placed on your wellbeing, with extensive support covering mental, physical, financial, and social aspects, including access to an Employee Assistance Programme and digital GP services.
• Contribution to National Security: This role places you at the heart of critical national defence infrastructure. You'll be part of a team that delivers essential support to the Royal Navy's surface ships and submarines, contributing to decades of ongoing submarine work and a legacy of innovation.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Location Specificity: The programme is primarily based at Devonport, Plymouth. While placements at other UK sites are possible, and agile working is supported, there is an expectation of working on-site multiple times a week. Flexibility and openness to relocation throughout the programme will be considered.
• Security Clearance Requirements: Due to the sensitive nature of the work, candidates must be able to achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), Security Check (SC), and Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NNPPI) clearance. Nationality, citizenship, and residency status may impact eligibility, so reviewing the GOV.UK guidance on UK security vetting is crucial.
• STEM Degree Essential: A degree in a STEM subject is a fundamental requirement for this programme.
• Early Application Recommended: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and the programme may close early if high interest is received. Submitting your application and completing any required assessments promptly is strongly advised to maximise your chances of consideration.
• Commitment to Long-Term Projects: The programme is part of an organisation with a long-term vision and significant investment in future projects, particularly in submarine work. This offers stability and the opportunity to be involved in initiatives with lasting impact.

This Nuclear Safety and Operations Engineering Graduate Programme offers a rare and rewarding opportunity to develop a specialised career in a field of national importance. If you are a driven STEM graduate seeking a challenging, supportive, and impactful role, this programme is an excellent choice for advancing your professional journey.