Graduate Programmes in the UK
Working on Projects that Matter to the Nation
Are you ready to kickstart you career with Thales? Our graduate programmes are designed to support you in shaping and advancing your career with us. You can choose from a range of Business Programmes or Engineering Programmes.
Each Programme provides the opportunity to expand your knowledge and expertise, while acquiring valuable skills for the future. At Thales, you can explore various areas of the company, while having the chance to collaborate with business leaders and engage with customers, making a meaningful impact every day by working on projects that matter to the nation.
Our Programmes
What Business Programmes do we offer?
At Thales, our 2-year Business Graduate Programmes are designed for emerging professionals ready to make a difference in a global engineering and technology company. You’ll work on diverse projects alongside experienced experts, developing innovative solutions that meet customer needs.
Throughout the programme, you’ll benefit from mentorship and guidance from industry leaders, enhancing your personal and professional growth. We offer programmes in Bids & Programme Management, Procurement, Contract Management and Business Growth. In these roles, you will have the chance to rotate through various business units across our UK sites, exploring different areas of our operations while working on real-world projects.
In addition, we provide fantastic opportunities in Finance and Health and Safety, giving you a well-rounded experience in a range of disciplines.
What Engineering Programmes do we offer?
Our 3-year engineering Graduate Programmes are an exciting opportunity for aspiring engineers, offering roles in Software, Mechanical, Electronics and Systems engineering. You’ll be assigned to various projects, collaborating with experienced engineers to design and develop solutions for our customers.
Throughout the programme, you’ll receive mentorship and support from our Engineering Leadership team, guiding you through a structured pathway to fast-track your growth.
Further Your Education:
Alongside your work experience, you’ll have the option to pursue a Level 7 Postgraduate Engineer Apprenticeship (Masters). This course is delivered remotely, making it easy to study while you work. It’s a fantastic opportunity to enhance your skills and work towards professional registration.
Training and Development
Join a diverse, collaborative community of professionals
Once you’ve joined Thales, you will enjoy team-building activities with fellow graduates and apprentices during our fun induction programme, similar to 'Fresher's Week.
At Thales, we believe investing in talent drives innovation and success. Our graduate programmes equip you with the skills and experience needed to excel in your career.
From day one, you'll follow a structured learning pathway that combines technical training with core behavioural and leadership development. Our learning pathway will enhance your technical and professional skills, and you’ll have access to Thales' global resources to boost your knowledge.
Whether you choose a business or engineering programme, you will deepen your expertise in your field. With the right tools, training, and support, Thales prepares graduates to lead, innovate, and thrive in a dynamic industry.
What are the benefits of our Graduate Programmes?
We are committed to empowering our graduates as they embark on their careers
When you join us, you will benefit from our structured salary models, which are designed to provide transparency and set clear expectations for your professional advancement from the outset. Starting salaries are £32,000 for Engineering Graduates and £30,000 for Business Graduates (except for Finance roles £32,000).
Thales is dedicated to your professional growth. That’s why we fully sponsor qualifications related to our Business and Engineering programmes. As a Business Graduate, you'll earn a qualification recognized by an accredited body, while our Engineering programs align with esteemed engineering institutions. Detailed information about these qualifications can be found with each respective program.
As part of your journey with us, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in 80 hours of volunteer work within your first two years, followed by 24 hours for each additional year.
Additionally, we have a range of supportive policies designed to assist you in your work, ensuring you have the resources and support to thrive in your role.
Application Process
We exploit technology for the security and stability of the nation. Therefore, Security Clearance (SC) is a requirement for all our positions. This process is in place to conduct thorough security checks, proactively identifying potential risks and prioritising the safety and security of our company and people.
To be eligible for full SC clearance, the usual criteria is to have resided in the UK for the last 5 years. However, in certain cases, a minimum of 3 years' residency in the UK over the last 5 years may be accepted, along with additional overseas checks.
For further details, please refer to the National Security Vetting (NSV) Agency