Graduate Programmes
Our Graduate Programme
Meet some of our graduates helping to shape a flourishing Scotland
Start your career where what you do really matters
Every day, our graduates help make life better for people and communities across Scotland.
They bring fresh ideas, energy and curiosity to challenges that really count - from protecting the environment to improving how we work.
More than 80 graduates are currently part of our programme, each following their own path, while contributing to something bigger.
We’re proud to hold Platinum Investors in Young People accreditation - the highest standard an employer can achieve. It reflects the time, care and investment we put into helping our people succeed.
We’ve also been recognised nationally, being recently awarded the prestigious Unifrog Early Careers Award at the TIARA Talent Acquisition Awards.
When can you apply?
Applications for our 2026 Graduate Programme will open in November 2025.
Head over to our social media channels for the latest updates, an inside look at life at Scottish Water, and to hear directly from our current graduates about their experiences.
You’ll find us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok.
What is the programme like?
Our graduate programme gives you the chance to turn what you’ve learned into real experience. You’ll build new skills, learn from people who really know their stuff and grow the confidence to take the next step in your career.
At Scottish Water, there are two ways to join our graduate community:
- Specialist Graduate Programme - If you want to focus on a particular field, this route is for you. You might join us in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Data and Digital Technology, Finance, Sustainability, Science, Communications or Environmental specialisms. You’ll build depth in your area and see how your work helps deliver a better future for people and the environment.
- Management Graduate Programme - This route does not usually ask for a specific degree discipline. It is about building strong foundations in how our organisation runs. You will work across different teams, learn how we deliver services, and develop skills in areas like project delivery, problem solving, people and stakeholder engagement. The aim is to prepare you for a future management role.
Depending on your role, the programme lasts two or three years. During that time, you will rotate through placements, take on real projects and access structured learning and professional development to help you grow.
Graduate Programmes Supporting Information
Get more detail on our two types of Graduate Programmes including entry criteria, rewards and benefits and how we'll support your progression in your new career.
Learn morePay and progression
We want you to feel valued as you develop. Your pay increases at set points during the graduate programme, recognising the experience and responsibility you gain along the way.
You’ll always know what to expect, with transparent pay rates and a clear link between your development and progression. Find out more in our supporting information section.
Your Development
We want you to feel supported and encouraged as you build your career. You’ll learn in lots of different ways - through real work, through the people around you, and through formal training designed to help you grow.
- Learning on the job. Most of your development happens through your placements and projects. You’ll get hands-on experience, build your confidence, and start to understand how Scottish Water works day to day.
- Learning from others. You’ll work alongside people who know their stuff and are happy to share what they’ve learned. You’ll also learn a lot from other graduates, who bring their own skills and ideas.
- Learning through training. You’ll take part in training that builds both your technical knowledge and your people skills. Some sessions will be with your graduate group; others will be tailored to your role or business area.
Throughout the programme, you’ll have a Development Manager who acts as your coach and sounding board. They’ll help you plan your development, find opportunities, and track your progress. Your Placement Line Manager and our Early Careers team will also be there to make sure you’re getting the most from every placement and feeling supported along the way.
Working at Scottish Water
We’re proud to be a company that puts people first - our customers, our communities, and each other. You’ll join a team that cares about doing the right thing and takes pride in making a difference across Scotland every day.
We believe everyone should feel they belong here. Our ten employee-led Belong groups bring people together to share experiences, celebrate what makes us different, and make sure every voice is heard.
We also know life isn’t just about work. You’ll have access to great benefits that support your wellbeing and balance - from 38 days’ holiday and hybrid working to paid volunteering time, a defined benefit pension, and generous family leave.
Scottish Water is a place where you can do meaningful work, grow your career, and feel part of something bigger.
Do you have any support needs?
Please email us here if we can make any changes to our application and selection process to make it easier and more comfortable for you.
Recruitment Retention of Data
Please note that candidate records greater than 12 months will be automatically removed from our system records.
