Graduate Software Engineer 2026

Overview

Graduate software engineer developing PLC automation for water sector projects

Key Responsibilities

• industrial automation
• water sector
• plc programming

Tasks

This role primarily focuses on industrial automation in the primarily within the water sector. The software the engineers will develop is primarily for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs).

Requirements

• structured text
• ladder logic
• iec 62443
• plc
• degree
• driving licence

What You Bring

Become a part of the UK’s top-rated construction and civil engineering graduate programme. Recognised as the No.1 choice for graduates by TheJobCrowd and winner of the Environmental and Ethical Awareness category. We invite applications from graduates who are passionate about the industry and have achieved, or are on track to achieve a Bachelors or Masters degree in computer science / software engineering (or similar) prior to September 2026. This role is available for a September 2026 start, with the possibility of an earlier start date to suit yourself and the business. PLC - Programmable Logic Controller A full UK driving licence (or currently learning, you will be expected to have obtained a Full UK Driving Licence by 7th September 2026) and the eligibility to live and work in the UK without restriction is essential for this role. -Structured Text (ST): A text-based language that's similar to traditional programming languages like C -Ladder Logic (LD): A graphical language that's intuitive for those familiar with electrical systems -Cyber Security IEC 62443 -Sequential Function Charts (SFC): A graphical language that's good for parallel or state-based processes -An adapter: You have a flexible approach to work, able to adapt to new circumstances or change in plans and you can positively change direction when needed. -Function Block Diagram (FBD): A graphical language -A collaborator: You work and communicate effectively with lots of different people at different levels, providing valuable input into key projects. -Instruction List (IL): An obsolete language that's similar to an assembly language

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Benefits

Work with some of the best people in the industry in a full-time role, as you start an exciting and rewarding career where you will be enabled to add value to society. As part of the graduate programme, you will be expected to work in and around the location advertised, with the possibility for expanding travel to other projects and locations in the future. This may include staying away from home. We are proud to be a platinum member of the 5% club member based on the quality of training and development of our ‘earn as you learn’ opportunities Our purpose is to improve lives by building facilities and infrastructure, support our team's growth, promote best practices in our supply chain, and care for the environment. At Galliford Try, we cultivate an inclusive culture where everyone can reach their full potential, emphasising health, safety and wellbeing through our 'Be Well' program, which offers gym discounts and support for various wellbeing topics. Our Graduate Development Programme is designed to give you a rich, hands-on experience where you will develop your technical skills, grow your network and gain professional qualifications if you want to. Step 3: The final stage of our interview process is a virtual assessment centre made up of an individual interview, dynamic group tasks and a meet the team session to answer any questions you may have about the role or team you would be joining. If you decide to work towards professional qualifications, we will fully fund your qualification and pair you with a dedicated mentor. Our programme concludes with a celebration of you and a promotion within your role to start the next stage of your career. Step 2:Applicants who pass an initial screening stage will be invited to complete a pre-recorded video interview where you will be asked questions that allow you to showcase who you are; these will include self-awareness, curiosity and innovation, and your ability to articulate yourself well. As a Disability Confident employer, we have committed to offer an interview to any candidate with a long-term health condition or disability that meet the essential criteria for the advertised position. Please contact the Resourcing Partner listed within the job advert if you believe this applies to you. We will also take the opportunity to discuss any adjustments required for your interview. Our development programme lasts for two years and runs in parallel to your permanent job, covering 7 modules designed to bring out your interpersonal and leadership skills, and complement the hands-on technical experience that you will gain in your role. -Two paid volunteering days per year -28 days holiday excluding bank holidays, increasing with years of service, with an option of utilising our holiday purchase scheme -Private medical insurance -A range of benefit schemes including: Save as You Earn share purchase scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Enhanced maternity and paternity leave, Pension scheme, Cycle to Work scheme and discounts on your favourite brands and holidays. -Company car / car benefit scheme (role dependent) -A starting salary of £29,500 -Agile working programme

About Galliford Try

-a national construction powerhouse with a history tracing back to two century‑old local builders. -now focusing on Building, Infrastructure (including Highways and Environment), and Specialist Services, delivering projects such as schools, hospitals, water barriers, and road networks. -expanded through strategic acquisitions—Morrison Construction in 2006, Miller Construction in 2014, and water and specialist services firms since 2021—to broaden its technical capabilities. -delivers projects in sectors like education, health, defence, justice facilities, major highways, water treatment infrastructure, fire‑safety upgrades, and digital infrastructure. -retains dual brands—Galliford Try in England & Wales and Morrison Construction in Scotland—to maintain regional strength. -has shown strong growth, recovering from COVID, reinstating dividends in 2021, and aiming to exceed £2.2 billion in revenue and achieve a 4% operating margin by 2030.

Sector Specialisms

Interview Process

-apply for the role online. -complete a pre‑recorded video interview covering self‑awareness, curiosity, innovation and communication. -attend a virtual assessment centre comprising an individual interview, dynamic group tasks, and a meet‑the‑team session.