NATS is the UK’s leading Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP). Every year we handle 2.6 million flights and keep 250 million passengers safe whilst in UK airspace. We provide air traffic management (ATM) services to 15 airports in the UK as well as providing these services around the world spanning Europe, Middle East, Asia and North America.
We’re shaping the future of ATM through our focus on ‘advancing aviation and keeping the skies safe’ and believe that the size and diversity of our business makes us an exciting choice for undergraduates considering their future careers.
You will join the team responsible for developing and improving the NATS Safety Management System (SMS). The SMS provides the framework, processes and tools that help us manage operational safety consistently across NATS.
This role is suitable for a technology-minded graduate who wants to improve how work is done. You will explore how automation, AI, data and digital tools can make our SMS more effective, efficient and easier to use.
Working alongside safety specialists, you will help identify opportunities to apply technology to solve real problems, reduce administrative burden and improve how safety information is managed and used across NATS.
You do not need previous safety management experience. We will help you develop a strong understanding of how operational safety and safety risk are managed at NATS, including the principles of safety management, safety risk management and the practical application of the NATS Safety Management System.
Your work could include:
The work will be based at our Head Office in Whiteley. Our agile working arrangements provide flexibility to work in our modern office facilities and, where the role allows, from home.
You’ll be working at the heart of our organisation alongside apprentices, graduates and experienced professionals. You’ll gain valuable insight into our business while making a tangible contribution to our success.
Your graduate scheme experience will give you the opportunity to build on the knowledge you have gained at university and develop practical skills. We are committed to your personal and professional development and, with the support of our skilled colleagues, will help you achieve your goals.
This role offers the opportunity to build specialist expertise in safety management and safety risk management while applying technology and automation skills to real business challenges that contribute directly to operational safety.
We are looking for a proactive STEM graduate who combines strong analytical thinking with the confidence to turn ideas into practical improvements. You should be enthusiastic about technology, curious about emerging applications of AI and motivated by the opportunity to make a difference.
You will need a relevant STEM degree at 2:2 or above, either already achieved or expect ed in 2027, such as engineering, computer science, data science, mathematics or a physical science.
It would be helpful if you can demonstrate:
Operational safety management experience is not required. What matters is curiosity, strong problem-solving skills, an interest in emerging technologies and a desire to improve how things work. We’re particularly interested in candidates who are comfortable challenging conventional approaches and proposing innovative but practical solutions.
To be eligible to apply, you must have indefinite, unrestricted right to work in the UK. Unfortunately, we cannot consider candidates whose right to work is time-limited or dependent on visa sponsorship.
You must be able to obtain Security Clearance (SC Level).
If you apply and meet the minimum requirements for the scheme, you’ll be invited to complete online tests. Candidates who pass this stage may be invited to a virtual assessment centre.
Assessment centres will be held between 30 November and 11 December 2026.
The start date for the scheme is 6 September 2027.
NATS reserves the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. If you are interested, we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible.
Towards the end of your scheme, you will complete an End of Scheme Board to assess your growth and development across the programme. Subject to successful completion of the scheme, individual performance and business requirements, there may be an opportunity for you to transition into a substantive role within your chosen area.
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