Graduate Engineer

Graduate Opportunity: Waste Science – Dounreay (2026 Intake)Location: CaithnessA recruitment partner is delighted to represent a major organisation within the UK's nuclear decommissioning sector, which is seeking Waste Science graduates to join its established early-career programme at the Dounreay site.Our client plays a pivotal role in one of the most significant environmental clean-up missions in the world. Their work involves dismantling and restoring historic nuclear facilities—some dating back to the mid-20th century—where end-of-life planning was never anticipated. Graduates who join this programme become part of a team tackling unique, safety-critical challenges that directly contribute to national hazard-reduction goals.About the Graduate PathwayThe successful applicant will join a two-year structured development programme that places them directly within the Dounreay site workforce. Unlike rotational schemes spread across multiple organisations, this route offers a series of targeted secondments solely within the client's Dounreay operations, giving graduates the chance to build deep technical capability in their chosen specialism.Alongside hands-on project work, participants follow a core behavioural and professional development curriculum, designed to strengthen communication, leadership, and collaborative working. There will also be opportunities to build networks with fellow graduates across the wider group.Role Overview – Waste ScienceThe Waste Science graduate will gain exposure across a broad range of facilities—from analytical laboratories and chemical processing units to research environments, waste-handling plants, and legacy reactor areas. Each placement presents its own complexity, from ageing infrastructure to specialist regulatory requirements.Typical responsibilities may include:Supporting the design and delivery of waste-management strategies across multiple facilitiesConducting waste characterisation activities, sampling campaigns, and radiological assessmentsPreparing technical documentation for material handling, transport, and disposalDeveloping project-specific waste plans and maintaining comprehensive waste inventoriesPerforming analytical tasks such as decay-curve assessments to support safe operational schedulingContributing to sustainability-focused initiatives that reduce environmental impactThe role offers a strong pathway toward professional registration, and previous graduates have left the programme with robust technical portfolios and experience working alongside seasoned specialists.What the Client Is Looking ForThe client seeks graduates who are comfortable blending technical analysis with collaborative problem-solving. Individuals should demonstrate curiosity, resilience, and a genuine interest in the nuclear decommissioning field.Programme BenefitsParticipants on the graduate scheme will receive:Starting salary: £32,000Secondment opportunities across the full range of Dounreay operationsDaily transport options to support access to the siteStructured support, including a mentor, programme lead and pastoral-care professionalProfessional institute membershipA tailored training portfolio covering technical, behavioural, and leadership skills28 days' annual leave plus public holidays, Christmas closure, and every third Friday offIn addition, the client offers:A competitive pension planA performance bonus schemeRelocation support where appropriateHealth and wellbeing benefits, including an Employee Assistance Programme and DigiCare+A range of employee networks, such as groups for early-career professionals, sustainability, gender balance, and neurodiversityA Cycle2Work initiativeEntry RequirementsCandidates must have:A minimum 2:2 degree in a relevant disciplineEligibility to work in the UK for the duration of the programme (verification required)The ability to pass security vetting and substance screening after a conditional offerA willingness to work on-site at Dounreay, Caithness, both during the programme and potentially beyondA commitment to upholding the organisation's values: respect, openness, collaboration, performance, and creativityApplication InformationApplicants should monitor their email regularly, including spam folders, as all communications will be issued electronically. By applying, candidates consent to their details being shared with the client's Early Careers team where necessary.Closing date: Friday 2 January 2026Applications submitted after this deadline cannot be considered. The vacancy may close earlier if sufficient applications are received, so candidates are encouraged to apply promptly. Only one application is required for the Dounreay Direct Entry route.