The UK’s Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) has welcomed its largest-ever cohort of graduates, as more than 100 young professionals begin their careers supporting one of the UK’s most critical environmental undertakings.
As applications open for the 2025 intake, this record recruitment reflects the growing scale and importance of the NDA’s mission to safely decommission nuclear sites and manage radioactive waste across the country.
The programme, now in its third year, offers graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a range of roles within the NDA group, from engineering and environmental protection to IT and finance. This year’s intake is the most diverse to date, with an increased number of recruits identifying as belonging to ethnic minority groups, having a disability, or coming from disadvantaged backgrounds. An impressive 20% of this year’s cohort are from less privileged communities, showcasing the NDA’s commitment to inclusivity.
Jacq Longrigg, the NDA’s Group People Development Director, noted:
“Our mission stretches well into the next century, and as we expand our responsibilities to cover more of the UK’s nuclear sites, we need to invest in the next generation. This year, we received around 6,000 applications, and we’ve increased our intake to over 100 graduates to match the scale of our work.”
Graduates will embark on a two-year journey through the programme, rotating between different functions and subsidiary companies within the NDA group, such as Sellafield, Nuclear Restoration Services, and Nuclear Waste Services. The initiative aims to provide a comprehensive foundation in nuclear decommissioning and related fields, supported by a robust development package including a £30,000 starting salary, generous leave, and tailored professional development.
Izzy Thomas-Horton, who recently completed the programme and secured a role as a Junior Sustainability Advisor with the NDA, praised the scheme for its breadth and depth. “I was drawn to the NDA because of the scale of its mission. During my time, I worked across multiple disciplines and even spent time in central government. The focus on personal development has been exceptional, and I’d highly recommend the experience to anyone, no matter their background.”
The NDA is not only looking to the future with its own programme but also through the Nuclear Graduates scheme, which partners with leading employers in the nuclear sector to provide further opportunities. Both schemes are now open for applications, with shortlisted candidates set to attend a recruitment event in Manchester early next year.
As the NDA continues to expand its role in managing the UK’s nuclear legacy, these new recruits will be at the forefront of one of the world’s most significant environmental programmes, helping to ensure the safe and sustainable decommissioning of nuclear sites for generations to come.
To find out more, visit Graduates – The NDA group or Nuclear Graduates.
