Graduate Programme FAQs

Whilst this Web site will have given you a good insight into the type of projects we’re involved in and where we can take your career, you may have a few questions. Below, you’ll find the answers to some of the most common enquiries we receive. 

Who can apply for the Graduate Development Programme? 
Why do you only hire graduates with less than 3 years of relevant work experience? 
If I already have relevant work experience, can I join a later stage of the programme?
How do I apply? 
Is online the only way to apply? 
Can I apply for more than one position? 
How long will I have to wait before hearing about my application? 
What is the recruitment process? 
What is a competency-based interview?
In what areas do you recruit? 
Is the Graduate Development Programme accredited? 
When is the closing date for applications?
When would I start?
How long is the Graduate Development Programme? 
Where will I be located?  
 
Who can apply for the Graduate Development Programme?
Graduates with at least a 2:1 result in a relevant degree, or equivalent. 
 
Why do you only hire graduates with less than 3 years of relevant work experience?
Our Graduate Development Programme is designed specifically to meet the needs of graduates taking the first steps in their chosen career. 

If I already have relevant work experience, can I join a later stage of the programme?
Yes, your prior experience will be taken into account during the recruitment process and you would join the programme in the appropriate year group.   

How do I apply?
With an online CV and covering letter. 
 
Is online the only way to apply?
Yes – and unfortunately, applications submitted in other forms will not be considered. 
 
Can I apply for more than one position?
Yes – but you need to ensure that your skills, qualifications, and experience match the requirements for each specific graduate opportunity. 
 
How long will I have to wait before hearing about my application?
You will receive an acknowledgement email shortly after your online application, and will be kept informed of your progress through email correspondence. Please note that our first interview stage tends to be at the end of the year/beginning of the new year, so do not be concerned if you do not hear from us until January 2012. 
 
What is the recruitment process?
If your initial online application (CV and covering letter) matches our requirements, you will be invited to a technical (competency-based) interview with a manager from your discipline and an HR representative. There are two parts to the interview process: a technical interview, followed by a competency-based interview. A successful interview process will usually lead to a job offer.  However, in certain circumstances, further interviews may be necessary.

What is a competency-based interview? 
A competency-based interview focuses on experiences you have had and how you have handled certain situations. These could be from periods of previous employment, your university course, extracurricular activities, or social/sporting interests. This helps us understand your strengths in our key competencies and how you would perform as part of Bechtel's Graduate Development Programme. 
 
In what areas do you recruit?

• Chemical/Process Engineering
• Civil/Structural/Architectural Engineering
• Construction Management
• Contracts/Procurement/Supply Chain
• Control Systems/Instrumentation Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Environmental, Safety & Health (ES&H)
• Human Resources
• Information Systems & Technology (IS&T)
• Mechanical Engineering
• Planning/Cost/Project Controls   

Is the Graduate Development Programme accredited?
Yes it is. Currently we’re accredited by the Institute of Chemical Engineering, Institute of Civil Engineering, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Institute of Electrical Engineering, Institute of Measurement and Control, and British Computer Society. 
 
When is the closing date for applications?
We accept applications on an ongoing basis until suitable candidates have been identified and the offers have been accepted. Apply early to ensure that your application is considered.   
 
When would I start?
The majority of our graduates will start in September 2012. However, there may be opportunities to start earlier or later than September. 
 
How long is the Graduate Development Programme?
The formal Graduate Development Programme last four years. However, your training and development won’t stop there. We’re committed to providing you with ongoing training and development throughout your career. 
 
Where will I be located?
Whilst our main UK offices are located in London (Hammersmith and Blackfriars), we are an international business. As such, throughout your career with us, you may be posted to a project site that could be anywhere in the world. The ideal candidates would be interested in taking advantage of international assignments when they arise in order to enrich their professional experience and meet the needs of the business. 

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