Nuclear Materials - Year in Industry

Why this role matters

Help ensure nuclear materials are controlled, accounted for and managed safely and securely. You’ll support the policies, systems, audits and operational teams that maintain accurate control and accountancy of strategic materials across AWE. PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOT A LAB BASED ROLE.

At a glance

Entry requirement

At least a 2:2 in an Engineering or Science-based degree. Nuclear Science, Nuclear Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Systems Engineering and Chemistry are particularly relevant, but all Engineering and Science subjects will be considered. You must be graduating in either 2029 or 2030.

Security clearance

You must be a British National and willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance. You must also be medically fit and able to wear a respirator when required. Full training is provided.

Working pattern

A 9-day working fortnight, with every second Friday off. This is a site and office-based operational role at Aldermaston, near Reading. It is not laboratory-based, and working from home cannot be guaranteed.

Key dates

Applications close: 31 October 2026

Start date: 2 August 2027

Assessment Centre: 4 Nov 2026 (could be subject to change)

What you could work on

• Material control: Support the safe movement, processing, accountancy and inventory control of nuclear and other strategic materials.

• Audit and verification: Visit operational facilities and help with physical verification, independent audits and accurate material records.

• Systems and compliance: Learn how control systems, policy, regulation, criticality safety and local instructions support nuclear operations.

• Projects and stakeholders: Work with operational teams, technical specialists and customers, while gaining insight into the transition to new facilities.

Why being onsite will support your development

This is a site and office-based operational placement and is not a laboratory role. Due to the nature and security of the work, we cannot guarantee working from home. Being onsite gives you direct access to nuclear materials specialists and operational facilities. You will receive a thorough induction and full training, including for respirator use when required.

The key skills we’re looking for

• Attention to detail: Maintain accurate information and understand why precise records matter.

• Safety and responsibility: Follow processes and work safely, securely and reliably in an operational environment.

• Analytical thinking: Review evidence, identify issues and support audit or verification activities.

• Collaboration: Learn from specialists and communicate clearly with operational teams and stakeholders.

Where this placement could take you

You’ll gain experience in nuclear materials accountancy, inventory control, auditing, regulation and operational safety. This can prepare you for careers in nuclear materials management, operations, assurance or systems engineering, with potential to return through a future graduate opportunity.

What happens after you apply

1. Online application: Submit your application as early as possible.

2. Online testing: If eligible, you’ll complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning assessments, with practice materials available.

3. Virtual assessment centre: Successful candidates will be invited to a virtual assessment centre during November or December 2026.

4. Pre-assessment support: You’ll receive practical guidance through a webinar.

5. Offer and clearance: Successful candidates move into offer and security-clearance stages before joining on 2 August 2027.