Graduate programmes

Entry requirements vary depending on the programme. Some programmes accept a minimum of a 2:2 degree in any subject, others have more specific criteria.

You must already hold or be on course to achieve all entry requirements by the programme start date.

There are no age restrictions, however our programmes are designed for graduates who have little or no experience of work.

All offers of a place are subject to passing our pre-employment checks. This includes:

• Right to Work check
• Reference check
• DBS criminal record check

You’ll earn £30,000 per annum.

As well as a competitive salary, you’ll enjoy a fantastic range of benefits, including:

• Annual Leave starting at 26 days (plus Bank Holidays)
• Generous pension scheme with 10% employer contribution
• Over 3000 discounts on shopping, eating out and much more!
• Flexible working arrangements and blended working between office and home
• And more!

We’re committed to your development every step of the way. We want to equip you with the skills and experience you need to succeed in your career.

This includes:

• A comprehensive residential induction programme
• Access to hundreds of eLearning courses
• Apprenticeship opportunities
• Industry recognised qualifications, memberships and specialist training

We partner with bodies such as Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), Association for Project Management (APM) and others to help you achieve professional recognition early in your career.

Your line manager, senior colleagues and the Early Talent Team will also be there to provide mentoring, coaching and career planning support.

Graduate placements are based in our offices across England. Some programmes are flexible on location, others will have set locations. Please check individual adverts for details.

We operate a hybrid working approach. You’ll need to be able to travel at least 2 days per week to your base location and will have the opportunity to work from home. 

If there’s a choice of location, we’ll do our best to meet your preference, but we can’t guarantee this, so do think about this carefully before applying.

Wherever you’re based, you’ll need to be flexible to travel to other locations as needed and we’ll cover your expenses at those times.

Please note, National Highways does not cover the cost of relocation.

First, you’ll complete an online application form. Be prepared to tell us why you’re interested in National Highways and the graduate programme you’re applying for.

You can only submit one application per programme. You can apply to more than one programme, but please only apply to those that are the best match for your skillset and interests.

As part of the online application, you’ll also complete a short scenarios-based assessment. If you’re shortlisted, we’ll ask you to choose your preferred role as you can only complete the rest of the selection process once.

If successful, we’ll invite you to record a video interview using your own device, so we can get to know you better. There’ll be a deadline to stick to, so keep an eye on your emails and try not to leave it until the last minute!

If you pass, the final stage is a virtual assessment day, where you’ll meet our hiring managers and Early Talent team. We’ll give you all the details to help you prepare if you reach this stage.

Due to the high volume of applications, we’re unable to provide feedback from the initial stages of the process, but you’ll be able to request feedback at the final assessment centre stage.

Applications for all 2025 graduate programmes close on Friday 15th November 2024.

We may close applications before the closing date depending on the volume of applications we receive. If there’s a programme you’re really interested in, do get your application in nice and early to avoid disappointment!

We’ll email you about the progress of your application after each stage, whether you’ve been successful or not.

Please be patient, due to the large number of applications we receive this may take some time. However, we’ll update you as soon as we can.

If you have any questions at any time, there’ll be email and telephone contact details for our dedicated graduate recruitment team included in all emails you receive during the process. We’ll be very happy to help you.

Please do not contact National Highways customer contact centres or offices directly for updates on your application.

We’re passionate about creating a culture where our people feel connected, included and enjoy greater wellbeing. Ways that we support this include:

• A range of employee networks and online communities
• Health and wellbeing initiatives

There’s also a dedicated Early Talent Network, where you can connect with your graduate peers across the country through online groups and in person events, including an annual Early Talent Awards ceremony.

As a Disability Confident Employer, we’ll support you during the recruitment process and in your role with any reasonable adjustments you might need due to a disability. Please get in touch to discuss your needs.

The end of your programme doesn’t have to be goodbye. 

Successful graduates who pass their qualification and demonstrate strong professional and behavioural standards will be guaranteed a permanent role within National Highways.

We’ll take time to discuss your aspirations with you and help you identify a role with us that will best match your developing career path and take you to the next level.

At National Highways, you’ll be sure of a rewarding and fulfilling career with fresh challenges and opportunities for years to come!