What type of graduate programmes are available?
Graduate programmes provide a great opportunity for recent graduates to launch their careers. At BAE Systems, we offer more than 60 different programmes. They provide a solid foundation, practical experience, flexible working and a chance to grow within your chosen field.
Joining an employer’s graduate programme can be a valuable opportunity for several reasons. They offer a structured and supportive environment for developing professional skills.
This chance to advance your career, and gain valuable industry experience, makes it an excellent opportunity for recent graduates.
Read on to learn more about the different graduate programmes.
Why is BAE Systems the place for you to begin your career?
I contribute to projects that will last for future generations … it’s fantastic when you walk on board a ship that you’re helping to build and you see the sheer size and scale of it.” Nikolas, Graduate Naval ArchitectNikolasGraduate Naval Architect
On our graduate programmes, you'll have the chance to work with some of the brightest minds with over 60 different options available across our business functions. You’ll benefit from a structured approach where you can work within a team from day one, gaining continuous learning and training. Each type of programme offers unique benefits, so it’s best to choose the one that aligns with your career goals. Here are the key details:
Graduate Opportunities:
- We offer both technical expert and project non-rotational graduate programmes that allow you to specialise and develop expertise from day one. The programme provides exposure to various roles and empowers you to achieve your potential.
- The programme varies in duration (typically 18-30 months) and structure.
- You’ll work on live projects and have real responsibility right from the start.
- We support our people and help find the right way for them to work offering a flexible approach, so they find the right work/life balance they need.
- Start work in one of many different office locations, all of which offer a wide variety of lifestyle benefits. This ensures that our people take good care of their mental and physical well-being.
- Choose from three main areas:
- Engineering: Create innovative, cutting-edge products and services.
- Technology: Be at the forefront of new and emerging technology.
- Business Services: Maintain operational excellence to stay ahead.
Undergraduate Opportunities:
We also offer opportunities for undergraduates, allowing students to gain valuable skills and experience while still studying:
- Industrial Placements: A one-year programme for undergraduates to gain real-world industry experience.
- Summer Internships: A fast-paced 12-week placement where you can make a real impact.
- Insight Experiences: Get the inside track from experts and explore potential career paths.
Rewards and Benefits:
We value our graduates and provide market-leading benefits beyond just the salary
- As a graduate, you can expect a starting salary of £34,000 on the programme.
- You’ll receive a £2,000 welcome payment and have the option for an optional 20% salary advance.
Whether you’re interested in engineering, technology, or business, we offer a supportive environment to kick-start your career!
I love the flexibility that I get within my team – I get to work the hours that suit me and work from home when I need to. Being in a team that respects and supports each other’s personal needs and commitments is important to me. Having a healthy work-life balance is crucial for everyone’s wellbeing and it also allows me to do the things I’m passionate about outside of work, such as travel.SimoneGraduate Electrical Engineer
What does a graduate at BAE Systems do?
As a graduate at BAE Systems, you’ll have exciting opportunities to contribute and make a difference. Here’s what you can expect:
- A two-week immersive induction to prepare you for your role.
- A development journey paced over 18-30 months including technical and personal development, supported by 1:1 coaching sessions.
- A personal effectiveness programme with career coaching and development modules.
- Ownership of your career path with a dedicated support structure including a buddy, mentor, coach, and graduate development lead.
- Real-world experience in a supportive environment where you can shape your own career and benefit from early responsibility.
- Stretch projects to take you outside of your chosen role.
- Inclusive learning resources through videos, books, guides and also virtual learning on our digital learning platform, Spark.
- Flexible and hybrid working across many sites and roles.
- Competitive salary and benefits, and an emphasis on wellbeing and prioritising a healthy work/life balance.
BAE Systems is one of the best company’s I’ve worked for in terms of work-life balance. Within my team I get to work flexible hours, which for me means I get to walk my dog and exercise during the day. I personally think you get the best out of people when there’s less of a rigid schedule.ZaraGraduate Procurement Officer
Start your graduate career
Our graduate programmes will get your career with us off to an amazing start. Packed with learning and development, and with exceptional levels of support, coaching and mentoring, you’ll develop specialist skills and build an impressive network to help you progress in our business.
Your work will be making a vital contribution to our purpose of protecting those who protect us all, building a safer future for everyone.