Eligibility
Who can apply?
To apply for any role at AWE you must be a British Citizen. We’ll also ask if you’ve lived outside the UK in the past 10 years, as this is part of our national security requirements.
When do applications open?
Applications for the EVOLVE graduate scheme opens on 16th September 2025.
We’re getting ready to open applications for all our Early Careers programmes – and we’d love to hear from you. You can register your interest now. That way, you’ll be the first to know when applications go live.
Do you provide reasonable adjustments for candidates with a disability?
We are very keen to know if you need any adjustments for any type of disability. We are here to help. Please get in touch by email [email protected].
What support do you give to new joiners on the graduate programmes with regards to supporting health and wellbeing?
Our people can only deliver if they’re feeling their best. That’s why we have a dedicated graduate wellbeing programme that focuses on supporting the four pillars of wellbeing: physical, emotional, social, and financial.
This includes:
- An established network of Wellbeing Champions
- A monthly wellbeing calendar of activities
- A financial education platform
- An employee assistance programme
Can I apply for more than one role at a time?
No – we ask that you apply for just one pathway at a time. Take your time to explore the options and choose the one that best matches your interests and goals.
What qualifications do I need?
These will vary depending on the pathway you choose. Take a look at the qualifications you might need to get started on each of our pathways.
Opportunities
What happens at the end of the graduate programme?
Over the two-year programme, you’ll work towards clear objectives and milestones that help you stay on track and grow with confidence. And we won’t wait until the end to talk about what’s next. Long before your programme wraps up, we’ll start exploring future opportunities with you, offering guidance and support to help you take your next step with clarity and purpose.
How do I know which pathway would suit me best?
Take a look at each pathway and see how your skills and traits match up. These are rotational placements that ensure you will get the most out of your two years with us.
Do you offer flexible working?
We totally support flexible working: basing ourselves where we do our best work and deliver our best. Given the unique nature of the work we do, there are some areas where the core work cannot be done remotely. Whilst working from home can have its advantages, we also know from our graduates that they get the most value and develop faster when they are co-located with their team.
Security Vetting
I have heard about Security Clearance being a requirement at AWE. What is this and why do I need it?
Because of the nature of the work we do, we require all potential employees to go through a Security Clearance check if they are offered a role with us. This check is run by the UK Security Vetting Agency (UKSV). Depending on the level of clearance required you may be asked to complete some forms, upload ID and/or attend an in-person interview and/or medical assessment.
My Security Clearance hasn’t come through yet, should I hold off on relocating?
We strongly recommend that you hold off on relocating until your Security Clearance has been received from UKSV and your start date has been confirmed by AWE.
How long will the Security Vetting process take?
The Security Vetting process can take up to 6 months. We will advise you on how to get updates on this from UKSV.
How long will AWE hold my personal information for?
We’ll keep your application information for 12 months, after which it will be automatically deleted from our system.
If you’re not successful at any stage, we’ll ask if you’re happy for us to hold onto your details for future opportunities. If you say no, we’ll remove your information straight away.
We take your privacy seriously and are fully committed to protecting your personal data in line with GDPR.
You can read more in our Privacy Notice.
Application process
How will I know my application has been received?
You will receive an acknowledgement from us via an automated email, which you will receive shortly after submitting your application.
What does the recruitment process look like?
The steps in our recruitment process are the same across all of our programmes. However, the questions you will see and the skills we are looking for are tailored to the programme you are applying to.
Our process is designed to help you show your strengths. Here’s what to expect:
- Online application: Tell us about yourself and upload any requested documents.
- Online assessment: If your application is successful, we’ll invite you to complete an assessment tailored to your chosen programme.
- Virtual assessment centre: This is your chance to meet us, take part in exercises, and show us your potential.
- Offer: If you’re successful, we’ll be in touch with your offer and next steps.
We’ll guide you through each stage with full information when you get your invitations.
We are very keen to know if you need any adjustments for any type of disability. We are here to help. AWE is committed to protecting the privacy and security of your personal information so let us know how we can support you.
What happens between accepting my offer and joining AWE?
We will stay in touch and support you as you wait for your security clearance. Throughout the programme you will be provided with the opportunity to attend online sessions, meet your peers, and get to know the people at AWE.
What would my start date be?
28th September 2026.
I haven’t been successful; can I re-apply?
You can reapply in the future, but you can only apply once per year. If you’re not successful, we would encourage you to only re-apply when you feel ready, having reflected on your previous application and any feedback provided.
Pay and benefits
What will my salary be?
We offer a highly competitive salary because we believe that every single on of our people should be rewarded fairly.
What will my work week look like?
At AWE, we operate on a nine-day fortnight. That means that one week you’ll do 5 days and 4 days on the other week. You’ll also get 270 hours of holiday on top of that.
Will I get other benefits?
You bring the brilliance, and we’ll provide an option of an interest free loan of £1,000, pay reviews, discounts, and a salary sacrifice benefits scheme. You’ll also get life assurance, access to our Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
Still don’t have the answer you need?
Contact our recruitment team via email at [email protected].
Already got your contract? Great! Talk to our onboarding team on 0118 982 9000 or by email at [email protected].