Rolls-Royce has opened applications for its 2027 Engineering and Technology Graduate Programme, and the deadline is now less than a week away. Applications close on Friday 13 November 2026, although the company warns it may shut the advert early if application numbers are high.

The two-year programme offers a starting salary of £31,000 plus a £2,000 joining bonus, with roles based in Derby, Bristol and Solihull. Graduates join the company's Engineering, Technology and Safety organisation and complete rotational placements across the engineering lifecycle, building experience in mechanical systems, manufacturing, software and digital, electrical engineering and materials development.

Real projects from day one

Placements can sit within Rolls-Royce's Civil Aerospace, Defence, Defence Nuclear Submarines or Power Systems divisions. The work includes exploring nuclear options for powering the UK's fleet of naval submarines, developing next-generation demonstrator engines such as the UltraFan, and contributing to the Global Combat Air Programme. Graduates also complete a Design and Make project, taking a challenge set by business stakeholders through the full cycle from design to manufacture.

Who can apply

Applicants need a degree in any STEM subject, or a joint honours degree combining STEM with a subject such as business or economics. The company says it is looking for a strong passion for the future of technology and a willingness to travel between sites during rotational placements.

Pay, benefits and next steps

Alongside the salary and joining bonus, the package includes 33 days of annual leave including bank holidays, a competitive pension and share plans. Assessment centres will take place between November and December. Applicants should note that roles in the Defence business require Security Check clearance, and Rolls-Royce says it can only progress applications from UK nationals or, in Ministry of Defence-approved cases, dual nationals. Applications are made through the Rolls-Royce careers website.