This two-year Mechanical Engineering Graduate Scheme offers a structured pathway into one of the UK’s most important engineering sectors. You’ll gain practical experience across a range of mechanical systems and infrastructure assets, helping the railway transition toward Net Zero while contributing to long-term improvements in safety, reliability and sustainability.
The scheme provides the technical foundation and professional support required to progress toward Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Key Criteria:
* A minimum 2:2 degree in an IMechE-accredited Mechanical Engineering discipline
* Eligibility to work and travel within the UK for the duration of the scheme
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
* Clear interest in mechanical systems, asset performance, rail infrastructure and Net Zero engineering
* Confident communication skills, able to explain technical concepts clearly
* Ability to build effective relationships and collaborate with colleagues at all levels
* Strong organisation, time-management and self-motivation
* Adaptability and willingness to undertake varied placements across multiple engineering teams
* Commitment to pursuing IEng or CEng professional accreditation
* A logical, creative and proactive approach to engineering challenges
Locations:
London, Glasgow, Cardiff, Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Milton Keynes, Swindon, Basingstoke, Ipswich, Stockport, Rugby, Bedford.
What You’ll Be Doing
Your journey begins with a business familiarisation phase, giving you a broad understanding of how the railway operates across multiple engineering and operational disciplines. This foundation leads into structured placements that build your mechanical engineering capability.
Throughout the scheme, you will:
* Rotate across a variety of mechanical engineering placements
* Contribute to major infrastructure investments and modernisation programmes
* Learn how critical assets are designed, assessed, maintained and renewed
* Gain hands-on experience across areas including:
* Track systems
* Signalling equipment
* Electrification systems
* Plant and mechanical asset management
* Work closely with multidisciplinary engineering and project teams to solve real technical challenges
Professional Development
You’ll receive structured support from day one, including:
* Registration with the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE), with fees covered
* A series of placements designed to build your professional competencies
* Quarterly and annual reviews with your Mentor to track your progress
* Four technical training modules covering mechanical systems, engineering safety and your specialist pathways
* Leadership development to support your growth into future management roles
After completing the two-year scheme, you will move into your first permanent mechanical engineering role and continue your journey toward professional accreditation.