Nuclear Graduate Program (Feb 2026)

The Role

The acquisition of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines is an historic and transformative endeavour for Australia. The whole-of-nation effort to safely and securely deliver the cutting edge nuclear-powered submarine program will transform Australia’s economic and national security landscape for decades to come.

Embark on a career-defining journey with the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA) at a pivotal moment in Australia's defence history. The acquisition of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines represents a monumental leap forward, not just in military capability but in technological and economic advancement. This initiative is at the heart of Australia's future security and prosperity, offering a unique blend of challenges and rewards.

As part of the ASA Nuclear Graduate Program, you will dive deep into the intricacies of nuclear submarine development, contributing to a wide range of critical tasks. This 18-month program is structured around three dynamic 6-month rotations, immersing you in the heart of operations and offering a comprehensive view of Australia’s submarine capability through the lens of the AUKUS partnership.

Unparalleled Growth Opportunities Diverse Rotations: Experience the breadth of submarine operations, including a rotation with one of Australia's premier nuclear agencies or key industry players. This is your chance to see the bigger picture, understand different facets of the nuclear ecosystem, and decide where you can make your mark.

Tailored Development: Benefit from a dedicated support team, regular development sessions, and exposure to national and international experts. Enhance your skills with specialised training and site tours, designed to propel your career forward.

Career Advancement: Successful graduates will find themselves on a fast track to advancement, with automatic promotion to APS 5, setting the stage for a distinguished career in defence technology. 

About our Team

Why ASA? Beyond the opportunity to contribute to a historic national project, ASA offers a path to becoming an industry leader. Our graduates gain unparalleled exposure to cutting-edge technologies and the global defence landscape, all while being part of a mission that shapes Australia's future. 

Our Ideal Candidate
We are a dynamic organisation seeking employees who are agile, innovative and energised by high-paced work. Our ideal candidates will bring the following attributes and skills to the role:

We Seek Visionaries 
The ASA Nuclear Graduate Program is open to recent (last 5 years) STEM or nuclear-related discipline graduates who are driven, innovative, and ready to contribute to a project of national significance.

We are looking for: Graduates in Science (nuclear, materials, computer, physical, radiological, biological), Engineering (mechanical, electrical, chemical, systems, maritime, aeronautical, mechatronic), Physics, Mathematics, or Data Sciences, who have completed their degree within the last 5 years. Individuals who are resilient, adaptable, and passionate about making a difference. You should be eager to learn, possess unwavering integrity, and share our commitment to Australia's strategic defence objectives.

Our Nuclear Mindset Principles

• Nuclear Safety is paramount
• Genuine commitment to nuclear security and safeguards
• The best people dedicated to excellence
• Maximise lethality, reliability, availability and readiness
• Accountability
• Strive for improvement
• Compliance with approved standards and procedures
• Not living with deficiencies
• Decisions are considered, well informed and underpinned by strong technical evidence
• Clear and effective communication

Your Future Starts Here

If you are ready to step into a role that challenges and rewards in equal measure, offering a trajectory towards leadership in the defence industry, we invite you to register your interest for the ASA Nuclear Graduate Program. Together, we will safeguard Australia's tomorrow.