Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer / CAD Engineer
We are launching a new graduate scheme and are looking for Graduate Engineers to join us in September 2026. This is an opportunity to build your career and gain professional, hands on experince.
Join the next generation of engineers powering global manufacturing.
At Projective, we don’t just engineer solutions, we energise progress. We are a global engineering consultancy specialising in utilities and facilities consultancy, design and support, working with recognised clients in the pharmaceutical, food & beverage and FMCG sectors. Our collaborative, client-centric approach combines deep technical expertise with agile thinking to deliver intelligent, tailored solutions that improve performance, reliability and long-term sustainability.
We are launching a new graduate scheme and are looking for four Graduate Engineers to join us in September 2026. This is an opportunity to build your career in a business that values curiosity, collaboration and continuous improvement, while gaining hands-on experience on real engineering challenges from the start.
This is an opportunity to fast-track your development through structured support, professional mentoring, real project responsibility and a clear progression route from graduate level through to Engineer. You will have the opportunity to contribute to projects for some of the world’s most recognised manufacturing businesses, supporting everything from decarbonisation and new technology assessments to engineering design and build delivery.
About the role
As a Graduate Mechanical Design Engineer / CAD Engineer, you will work alongside experienced engineers and designers to support the delivery of mechanical design projects for industrial clients. This role combines engineering design and technical problem-solving with CAD modelling and drawing production, giving you the opportunity to develop both strong design judgement and practical delivery skills.
You will gain experience in how engineering solutions are developed from concept through to detailed design, commissioning and installation. This includes supporting calculations, layouts, technical assessments, design development and drawing production for real projects in regulated industrial environments. This role is suited to candidates who enjoy both the technical thinking behind engineering design and the detail needed to turn concepts into accurate, buildable solutions.
What you will be doing
Your responsibilities may include:
· Working on live engineering projects alongside experienced multidisciplinary teams for leading global industrial clients.
· Taking part in site visits to understand existing systems, design constraints and installation requirements
· Supporting decarbonisation projects, including heat pumps, electrification and other low-carbon technologies.
· Supporting mechanical engineering design from concept through to detailed design and delivery
· Creating detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using CAD software
· working with new and emerging technologies, including AI-enabled tools
· Assisting with the development of general arrangement drawings, layouts and mechanical design packages
· Development of mechanical models and other system design activities where required using software and first principles
· Coordinating with engineers and designers to ensure designs are practical, accurate and aligned with project requirements
· Developing an understanding of utilities, facilities and industrial systems within regulated environments
· Building strong relationships with colleagues and clients through professional, clear communication.
As part of Projective’s graduate scheme, you will be supported to develop both technically and professionally. The programme will give you exposure to real projects, structured development, and close support from experienced colleagues.
You can expect
· Competitive salary with annual progression, starting salary: £28,000-30,000
· A structured induction with the wider graduate cohort
· Career progression within a growing company and a pathway to Chartership
· Exposure to live client projects and operational environments
· Site visit experience and involvement in real-world projects
· Mentoring and regular development reviews
· Experience working in a collaborative consultancy environment
· Paid professional membership with a relevant institution
· A clear progression pathway, with the opportunity to develop towards the next level within 3 to 5 years, depending on performance and development
· Opportunities for domestic and international travel.
Essential requirements
To be considered for this role, you must have:
· a BTEC, BEng or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
· A genuine interest in mechanical engineering design, CAD, and the development of practical engineering solutions
· Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles.
· Knowledge of CAD software (e.g. Autodesk Inventor, SolidWorks or AutoCAD).
· Good attention to detail, organisational and problem-solving skills.
· The ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing
· A proactive, self-motivated attitude and willingness to learn
· The ability to work both independently and as part of a team
· A professional and adaptable approach to working with colleagues and clients
· Willingness to travel as required for site visits, project work and client engagement
· The right to work in the UK for the duration of employment without employer sponsorship
Desirable
The following would be advantageous:
· Previous internship, placement or work experience in a relevant engineering environment
· Experience of CAD software, 3D modelling and/or technical drawing production
· An interest in sustainability, utilities, process improvement or industrial infrastructure
· A full UK driving licence, or willingness to obtain one in time for the role.
Our graduate engineer promise
At Projective, our commitment to graduate engineers is clear:
· Your ideas are valued
· Your development is structured
· Your impact is important
Graduate engineers are not observers. They are active contributors to projects that shape the utilities and facilities powering modern manufacturing worldwide. Join our growing global team of engineers — where your ideas help shape the utilities and facilities that power modern manufacturing.
Further Graduate Programme Details
Start date: September 2026, (or earlier, flexible based on availability)
Requirement: BTEC, BEng or equivalent in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
· Working Arrangement: Office-based at our Head Quarters in Fleet (GU51 2UY)
· Travel: some travel will be required for site visits, project support and client work
· Job Type: Permanent, Full time (40 hours pw)
- Department
- Engineering Delivery
- Locations
- Head Office