Graduate jobs & schemes in Portsmouth 2026

Portsmouth offers graduate roles in defence and engineering, marine and maritime industries, public sector, healthcare, digital and creative industries, education, and retail management. Major employers include BAE Systems, Portsmouth City Council, University of Portsmouth, Queen Alexandra Hospital (NHS), and several growing tech startups and digital agencies.

Graduate schemes usually open from September to January, especially in engineering, public sector, and corporate roles. However, many Portsmouth employers—particularly in the public sector, healthcare, and SMEs—recruit on a rolling basis, so it's worth checking throughout the year.

Yes—Portsmouth combines a coastal lifestyle with access to a broad range of industries. It’s particularly strong in defence, marine, and public services, and the cost of living is generally lower than in nearby cities like Southampton or Brighton, making it a solid base for early-career professionals.

Portsmouth is best known for its naval and maritime heritage, with strong ongoing demand in defence engineering, logistics, and marine technology. There’s also growth in digital media, education, and healthcare, making it a versatile job market for graduates.

Definitely. Many Portsmouth employers offer structured development programmes or clear progression pathways—particularly in the defence, healthcare, and council-run services. If you’re motivated, it’s a city where you can grow steadily into more senior roles without needing to move elsewhere.