Graduate- HR

HR Graduate Programme 2026
- Starting salary £31,000 + plus benefits and welcome bonus | Office based in Aldermaston, nr Reading, Berkshire.
- Our two-year Evolve programme offers you an exciting opportunity to join our HR career pathway. We’re looking for amazing graduates and aspiring future HR leaders to join us and shape the future of AWEIs that person you?

About AWE
- We’re a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. The UK’s independent nuclear deterrent has existed for 75 years to deter the most extreme threats to our national security and way of life, helping to guarantee our safety, and that of our NATO allies.
- Our work is critical. We’re delivering Astraea, the next warhead for the UK’s nuclear deterrent and pushing the boundaries of nuclear science and technology. But that’s just part of the story.
- We support the UK government in a range of vital areas - from counter-terrorism to global nuclear test monitoring to building a world-class community of experts in nuclear science. This is work that protects lives and strengthens national security.
- At AWE, you’ll find more than just a job. You’ll find purpose, growth, and a community like no other. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this is your chance to learn from the best, develop your skills, and be part of something truly unique.
- Be extraordinary at AWE.
- Entry Requirements
- We want ambitious, people-focused graduates with:
- A degree in any discipline; degrees in HR, Business, Communications, Psychology or Data Analysis are a plus- Curiosity for data, talent, or communications—depending on your chosen route- Excellent communication and analytical skills- A passion for creating exceptional workplaces and driving positive change- Before starting with the business, you will need to be able to provide evidence that you have attained a minimum of a 2:2 in your degree by September 2026.- You must be able to Join AWE in September 2026. We recruit on a rolling basis which means as soon as our positions have been filled, we will close.

What to Expect on the Programme
- At AWE, our people are at the heart of everything we do. Join our Human Resources Graduate Development Programme and become part of a community that’s shaping the future of a truly unique industry. From day one, you’ll be supported via your chosen development path that aligns with your strengths and ambitions—whether it's employee experience, talent development, or strategic HR. Over two years, you’ll grow into a specialist role, making a real impact while building a career you’re proud of.
- Development Routes:

- Data Analyst (Organisational Intelligence Insights)
- Leverage people data and analytics to inform HR strategy and drive meaningful improvements in organisation effectiveness workforce planning, engagement and performance.
- HR Specialist
- Gain hands-on experience across the full spectrum of HR disciplines—from talent acquisition and learning & development to employee relations and organisational design.
- Corporate Communications & Engagement
- Shape and deliver communications that connect colleagues and stakeholders, strengthen our brand, and build positive employee engagement across the business.
- Your Two-Year Development Journey
- A two-year, structured development programme kicking off in Autumn 2026. Immediate placement in your chosen route, with opportunities to learn from industry experts.
- Tailored training—both in-house and external courses—to build your technical and professional skills.
- One-to-one mentoring and coaching from senior leaders.
- Real responsibility: lead projects, present insights, and influence our people and culture.
- Benefits:
- £31,000 starting salary- Holiday entitlement of 270 hours of leave annually including bank holidays- Excellent work/life balance and a vibrant and welcoming grad social scene- 9-day working fortnight - so every other Friday off- A salary-sacrifice benefit scheme- A welcome payment- An option of an interest free loan of £1,000 as well as regular Graduate pay reviews- A structured and supported career progression- Access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending across retail, hospitality and leisure- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme- Access to our Occupational Health Services

The Application Process
- Online test: If successful, you will be invited to complete our online assessment stage. These include online testing against numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning tests. Don't be intimidated: practice assessments will be available so you will be fully equipped with the knowledge of what to expect.
- You must be able to Join AWE in September 2026. We recruit on a rolling basis which means as soon as our positions have been filled, we will close.

Reasonable Adjustments:

- Our aim is to make you feel confident and informed throughout your journey with us: we're not trying to catch