About AWE
We are a team of remarkable people, united by one extraordinary mission: keeping the UK safe and secure. Our work supports the UK’s independent nuclear deterrent and extends into vital areas including counter-terrorism, global nuclear test monitoring and the development of world-class nuclear science expertise.
At AWE, you will find purpose, growth and an opportunity to learn from specialists while contributing to work that protects lives and strengthens national security.
This 12-month placement sits within AWE’s Sustainability, Safety, Health, Environment and Quality function. The function implements AWE’s Safety Management System and drives continuous safety and environmental improvement across the business.
As an Undergraduate Conventional Safety Specialist, you will help operational and project teams identify hazards, assess risks, select appropriate controls and comply with health and safety requirements. You will gain experience both within the central SHEQ team and alongside deployed safety specialists supporting individual delivery areas.
Key activities and responsibilities
- Undertake and support risk assessments to identify proportionate control measures.
- Support risk-based inspections in line with relevant legislation, industry standards and AWE policies, procedures and guidance.
- Apply relevant assessment tools and interpret findings to support safe decision-making.
- Help deliver safety initiatives and contribute to continuous improvement across operational areas.
- Develop practical understanding of AWE’s Safety Management System and how it is implemented across projects and facilities.
- Build knowledge of key health and safety legislation relevant to AWE activities.
- Work with safety professionals, facility operators, project managers and other specialists as part of integrated teams.
- Communicate findings clearly, maintain accurate records and contribute to relevant reports and discussions.
Learning and development
- Learn from experts: Work alongside subject matter experts from day one and support real projects and safety improvements.
- Practical experience: See how safety requirements are interpreted and applied in operational environments.
- Professional capability: Develop skills in risk assessment, inspections, legislation, stakeholder engagement and evidence-based decision-making.
- Continual support: Receive support from a dedicated line manager, Evolve pathway lead and buddy throughout the placement.
- Build your network: Connect with the wider Early Careers community, employee resource groups and colleagues across the business.
Entry requirements
We are interested in candidates studying any science-based degree. Please note that this is not a lab-based role.
- You must be on track to achieve a minimum 2:2 in your degree by August 2027.
- You must be graduating in either 2029 or 2030 and completing a placement year as part of your degree.
- You must be available to join AWE in August 2027.
- You must be a British National and willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role.
Behaviours and qualities
- Curious: You enjoy understanding how things work, identifying potential risks and asking thoughtful questions.
- Analytical: You can review information carefully and use evidence to support decisions.
- Collaborative: You communicate clearly and work constructively with specialists, operators and project teams.
- Dependable: You take responsibility for your work, keep your promises and understand the importance of trust and integrity.
- Resilient: You can adapt, respond positively to feedback and keep developing your skills.
- Safety focused: You are prepared to speak up, follow requirements and contribute to a safe and secure working environment.
Salary and benefits
- £24,500 salary.
- 270 hours of annual leave, including bank holidays.
- A full-time, 9-day working fortnight, giving you every other Friday off.
- A salary-sacrifice benefit scheme.
- Savings across retail, hospitality and leisure.
- Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
- A vibrant Early Careers community and opportunities to take part in events and activities.
- Potential to secure a Graduate role after university, subject to performance, business need and available opportunities.
Working location
This is an office-based placement at Aldermaston, near Reading, Berkshire. Due to the nature and security of the work, we cannot guarantee opportunities to work from home for part of the week. Working onsite will give you direct access to experienced specialists, operational teams and practical support, helping you build confidence and capability throughout your placement.
Recruitment process and key dates
- Online application: Apply for the pathway that best matches your interests and goals.
- You may only apply for one Year in Industry role. Applications to multiple roles will not be accepted, and any additional applications will not be considered.
- Online assessment: If eligible, complete numerical, verbal, logical and cognitive reasoning assessments. Practice materials will be available.
- Virtual assessment centre: Successful candidates will be invited to a virtual assessment centre, expected to run during November and December 2026.
- Pre-assessment support: Attend guidance webinars so you know what to expect and can prepare.
- Offer and clearance: Successful candidates will move into the offer and security-clearance stages before joining in August 2027.
Important things you need to know
- You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV.
- Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.
- Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.
