Why choose a graduate career in engineering construction?
Competitive graduate salaries
Clear progression routes
Professional accreditation opportunities
Opportunities to work internationally
From delivering major energy and infrastructure projects to helping shape a more sustainable future, graduate careers in engineering construction offer the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, continue developing professionally and build a rewarding long-term career.
With structured graduate programmes, supportive employers and opportunities across engineering, project management, commercial, digital and business roles, a graduate career in engineering construction can take many different paths. Whatever your interests or ambitions, there are opportunities to build a career that’s right for you.
Explore the answers to some of the most common questions from graduates below.
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Does my degree have to be in engineering?
“Trust your soft skills. What’s more important is your passion, interests and social skills.”
Jasmine Sagoo
Assistant Process Engineer, AtkinsRéalis
While some roles require an engineering or technical qualification, employers also recruit graduates from disciplines such as project management, construction, business, finance and environmental subjects. The requirements will vary depending on the role and employer.
What kind of graduate roles are available?
“If you’re uncertain, go to career fairs and speak to former graduates about their experiences. I always felt inspired when people talked to me. I now attend these fairs to reassure people there are definitely roles to fit their needs and capabilities.”
Lesley Meredith
Assistant Safety Engineer, AtkinsRéalis
Engineering construction employers recruit graduates into a wide range of roles, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, project management and design. There are opportunities for both engineering and non-engineering graduates across the industry.
What will I do on a graduate programme?
“I have worked on a range of projects, from designing and delivering vessels to clean oil, technology to clean water, and my most recent project has been working to decarbonise a paper mill.”
Valeria Korobka
Project Engineering Manager
Graduate programmes typically combine practical work experience with training, mentoring and professional development. You’ll contribute to real projects, build technical and professional skills and gain a broader understanding of how major engineering and construction projects are delivered.
What are the progression opportunities?
“The biggest benefit to getting on a graduate scheme like I did is that the business recognises you are a graduate and that you need support. They don’t expect you to know everything from day one.”
Lesley Meredith
Assistant Safety Engineer, AtkinsRéalis
Many graduates progress into specialist technical, project management, commercial or leadership positions. Employers often support graduates to gain professional accreditation and chartered status, helping them develop long-term careers with clear progression opportunities.
Find out more about The Chartered Project Professional Programme.
Lesley Meredith | Assistant Safety Engineer
Our top tips on graduate careers
Valeria Korobka | Project Engineering Manager
Meet Valeria Korobka
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Thinking about Chartership?
If you are pursuing an engineering route, it is useful if your first degree or Masters is accredited by a relevant professional body. This can help you to achieve the status of chartered engineer at a later date. Details of accredited courses are available via the Engineering Council. Student membership with professional bodies and institutions will help you keep up to date with developments in the industry and enable you to start making contacts. Find out more below:
Other career pathways to explore...
Are you an employer looking for information about our graduate development grant?
The ECITB’s Graduate development grant supports the development of engineering graduates in the areas of sustainability, project capability, leadership, commercial awareness, diversity & inclusion and interpersonal skills.
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