Career paths available for science graduates

Students across the globe are sought after for choosing STEM-based degrees in an array of industries. In the UK alone, there were 9.4 million people in STEM employment across all industries as of 2023. 

It can be encouraging to look at the figures and see a demand for STEM graduates, but it can be a challenge to understand what career routes are available after graduating. In this article, we focus specifically on science graduates to draw attention to the possibilities that lie in store after graduation, particularly at AtkinsRéalis. 

We offer plenty of opportunities and are really passionate about helping young people get the most out of their STEM careers.

Which job is best for science students after graduation?

There is no singular "best" job for science students after graduating. It depends on a multitude of factors, such as your passions, skills, degree specialization, and ideas about your future career trajectory. 

Here, we give you some insight into graduate schemes that can set you up for a long, fulfilling, and dynamic career to help you make an informed decision before you start applying.

When it comes to graduate science jobs, we offer a wide variety of graduate schemes. Here, we focus on four schemes that are open to science graduates looking to advance their careers and perhaps offer some ideas for career paths that may not have been considered. We'll break down what to expect from each as well as give some insight into who these courses might appeal to.

Waste Management Graduate Scheme

Our Waste Management Graduate Scheme offers plenty of variety, both on large and small projects, with the opportunity to explore different career pathways, including consultancy and design. You'll join our Nuclear team in either Decommissioning and Waste Services or Power New Build – Environment, Waste and Radiological Services Capability.

Here at AtkinsRéalis, we consider it our mission to lead the engineering industry in achieving Net Zero, sustainable waste management is just one way we do that.

You might be suited to this scheme if:

• Innovative engineering excites you
• You're an analytical thinker and a collaborative team player
• You've got a knack for problem-solving, and you like tackling complex challenges while exploring creative solutions
• Your degree might be in one of the following disciplines: Physics, Chemistry, Nuclear Science, Nuclear Decommissioning and Waste Management, Environmental Science, Chemical Engineering, Environmental Pollution, Environmental Control, Radiation & Environmental Protection, Geology, Geoscience, or Geography.

The requirements for this scheme are a minimum 2.2 Bachelor's/BSc/BEng degree in a relevant STEM area.

Prospective career paths are hugely varied – here are just a few:

• Waste Engineer
• Waste Consultant
• Waste Management Energy Specialist
• Radiation Physicist

Learn more about our Waste Management Graduate Scheme and the full list of degree types that meet our criteria

Transportation Technology Graduate Scheme

Our Transportation Technology graduates join our transportation team. 

We recognize that the demand for wide-ranging, fit-for-purpose transportation systems is growing across the world, and that's why we're providing creative, smart, and affordable infrastructure to meet this demand.

You may enjoy this scheme if:

• You've got a keen interest in digital innovation and technology within the transport industry
• You enjoy leveraging your analytical skills to solve practical challenges
• You're a forward thinker who is intrigued by the prospect of transforming the way societies connect and move
• Your degree may be in one of the following disciplines: Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Software and Systems Engineering, Communications Systems Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering. We also consider other equivalent STEM degree qualifications such as Physics or Maths.

Prospective career paths include but are in no way limited to:

• Transport Planner
• Transport Consultant 
• Intelligent Mobility Consultant
• Inclusive Design Consultant

Learn more about our Transportation Technology Graduate Scheme and find out the full course requirements.

Environmental Graduate Scheme

If providing clients with innovative design, research, and advisory services for a sustainable future sounds appealing, look no further than our Environmental Graduate Scheme. 

You'll be working at the forefront of groundbreaking infrastructure projects, ensuring they're sustainable and safeguard our valuable natural resources.

This scheme might be for you if:

• You're an effective communicator with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• You're detail-oriented, collaborative, and adaptable
• You'd love the opportunity to work with diverse teams on diverse projects
• You have a real passion for sustainability
• You may have studied: Environmental or Climate Science, Nuclear Engineering, Geology, Geography, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Civil Engineering, Economics, or Human Geography.

Prospective career paths are enormously varied - here are just a few:

• Environmental Consultant
• Environmental Planner
• Environmental Project Manager 
• Environmental Scientist

Learn more about our Environmental Graduate Scheme and check out the full list of degree types and requirements. 

Electrical EC&I Engineering Graduate Scheme

As a Graduate Electrical Engineer, you'll enjoy variety, working on large and small projects, experiencing different aspects, including consulting, designing, or overseeing construction.

You might be suited to this scheme if:

• You've got a passion for digital tools and using technology to address engineering challenges 
• You value strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication
• You're keen to learn and grow in a consultancy environment with a focus on complex projects
• You might have studied: Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Power Engineering, Astrophysics, Physics, Renewable Energy, or Theoretical Physics

There are countless career opportunities within electrical engineering, here just a few examples:

• Electrical Engineer 
• Electrical Engineering Specialist
• Electrical Designer
• Electrical Analyst

Learn more about our Electrical EC&I Engineering Graduate Scheme.

Science graduates: choose a sustainable future with AtkinsRéalis

There's a plethora of reasons to join us as a science graduate at AtkinsRéalis. 

Browse our graduate roles today or read our Graduate FAQs for more information.