Physics - NDA group graduates Dounreay

Physics – NDA Group Graduate Programme Dounreay 2026

Join the Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS) at Dounreay on a two‑year graduate programme designed to develop technical expertise across nuclear waste management, materials processing and plant operations.

Say hello to the NDA Group Graduate Programme
Graduates are fundamental to our future. Our programme supports talented graduates to build a first‑class foundation for a rewarding career in the nuclear sector.

As a Dounreay Direct Entry graduate you will:
- Experience multiple secondments within NRS Dounreay, accelerating expertise in your chosen discipline.
- Participate in core behavioural development to enhance professional skills and network with peers across the NDA group.
- Drive cutting‑edge projects across the UK’s nuclear sector, from regulation and waste management to materials processing and plant operations.
- Contribute to technical solutions, perform precise measurements, build sophisticated computational models and present data‑driven reports, collaborating with a diverse network of experts.

Recent graduates have validated radiometric measurement data, conducted gamma spectroscopy measurements, researched novel diagnostic techniques, reviewed experimental fuels, carried out shielding assessments and assessed package criticality.

• A minimum 2:2 in a relevant degree subject
• The right to work in the UK by the start of the programme
• Successful completion of security clearance and substance tests (post‑offer)
• The willingness to work on‑site at Dounreay, Caithness for the duration of the programme
• The drive and determination to contribute to our mission while embodying our group values of Respect, Openness, Collaboration, Performance & Creativity

• A salary of £32,000 per annum
• Secondments across the breadth of NRS Dounreay
• A dedicated travel bus system to aid site travel
• A support system including a dedicated mentor, a company lead and a pastoral care professional
• Membership of a professional institute
• A tailored programme of professional and behavioural skills development
• Generous annual leave of 28 days plus public holidays, Christmas closure and every third Friday off

• Attractive company pension scheme
• Company bonus scheme
• Relocation assistance
• Employee Assistance Programme and Digi Care+
• Cycle2
  
  Work Scheme
• Established employee networks including Young Generation Network, Green, Gender Balance, Neurodiversity and others

Any applications received after this date will not be considered. We reserve the right to close a role early should we receive sufficient applications. Please apply at the earliest opportunity to avoid disappointment.

We are a Disability Confident Scheme member and will provide reasonable adjustments during the application or interview process. If you need adjustments, please let us know.