Job Description

If you'd like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.
Operations 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 operations career pathway. We're looking for amazing graduates and aspiring future leaders to join us and shape the future of AWE ...Is 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.
www.awe.co.uk
Entry RequirementsYou will be recently qualified in one of the following degrees - Science, Engineering, Manufacturing, Supply chain, Analytics / Mathematical 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
Ignite Your Career in Operations - Where Strategy Meets Delivery
Step into the heart of one of the UK's most critical and technically advanced organisations. Our Operations Graduate Programme is more than a rotation - it's your opportunity to build a career where you'll help shape the future of Production Delivery.
This is your chance to see the entire lifecycle of operations, from raw materials to finished products. You'll experience the precision of nuclear materials management and the importance of regulations and policies, the pace of logistics optimising processes and reducing waste, the discipline of pro-duction planning, and the innovation of operational transformation - all while learning how health, safety, and regulation sit at the heart of everything we do.
We'll immerse you in projects that matter - delivery in manufacturing areas, coordinating resources, streamlining supply chains, accountancy and control and supporting effective future transition of operations from existing to new facilities. With increasing focus on automation, sustainability and global supply networks, you'll be in a fast-moving environment where stakeholder engagement is key.
Your Two-Year Development Journey
This structured programme includes a series of placements designed to accelerate your learning and develop the critical skillsets essential for future leadership in Operations. Over the course of two years, we'll support your growth with targeted training in leadership, business, and behavioural skills - preparing you to take on a promoted role at the end of the scheme.
A World of Opportunities - Tailored for You
You'll rotate across our key Operations functions - Production, Nuclear Materials Management, Logistics, Operations Planning, and Operations Excellence & Readiness - gaining unrivalled insight into how these unique operations are led and sustained.
Across every placement you'll work with colleagues from the front line to the Senior Leadership Team, building networks and shaping how Operations delivers now and in the future. You'll gain skills, insight and experience to become part of the Operations team- someone who understands production delivery, can see the big picture and drive continuous improvement.
Step into a world where your ideas matter and your ambition takes flight. Start your journey in national security with AWE--apply now and shape the future.
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
We want you to shine in your application process which is designed to be fair and transparent. So we've kept it simple with a three step process.
Online application: Apply for one pathway; take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals.
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.
Virtual assessment: Those successful at testing will be invited to our virtual assessment centres. These run throughout November into December 2025 - we'll confirm the exact dates in an email. We run pre-assessment centre webinars to guide you on 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.
Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. Please note that you must be a British National to apply for a role with us.
Reasonable Adjustments:
Our aim is to make you feel confident and informed throughout your journey with us: we're not trying to catch you out. Our ambition is to create a workplace where differences are recognised and celebrated. Our mission relies on the diversity and our people being able to bring their energy to work and perform their best.
We encourage diverse applicants and we're here to support you all the way. We encourage you to let us know if you need any adjustments on your application. Any inclusion information you provide us will be used to encourage and support you through the application process and will be held only for this purpose in accordance with GDPR. Learn about how we handle your data.
Why us?
Build your career as future leader
Our focus lies on a number of key themes such as: 'self and team awareness' - providing an opportunity to better understand your own strengths and how these could contribute effectively to collaborative situations.
Create your network
AWE's early careers community is full of energy, connection, and opportunity. You'll find plenty of ways to get involved through events organised by our ERGs , spontaneous activities and the Recreation Society. It's a space where you can build relationships, share experiences, and enjoy life beyond your role.
Continual support to grow
You will be supported by a dedicated line manager and Evolve pathway lead who will help your transition into the business, provide pastoral support and work with you on your development journey. You will be aligned to a 'buddy', who will normally be a fellow graduate from an earlier cohort.
Who We're Looking For:
We're looking for people who are naturally curious, enjoy solving complex problems, and aren't afraid to ask questions when things don't quite make sense. You'll bring a dependable, team-focused mindset and a willingness to learn because in a unique, classified environment like ours, trust and integrity are key.
You'll thrive at AWE if you're resilient, eager to grow and excited to apply your skills to real-world challenges. You'll embrace our behaviours: connecting with respect, keeping our promises, staying safe and secure, and embracing simplicity.
Contact us
If you have questions during the application process, please reach out to the Early Careers Team at EarlyCareers@awe.co.uk
Next steps:
Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don't always 'tick every box'. That's why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don't meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we'd love to receive your application.
Important things you need to know:We encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment if applications are high and the role therefore closes. You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV. We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process. Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.
Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.