2026 UK Graduate Ports Project Manager Career Path: Transport

Please note you may only submit one application for our graduate opportunities. Once submitted, changes or new applications cannot be made — unless new vacancies open in the new year.

To avoid missing out on your preferred role, we recommend applying as early as possible, as positions will close once filled.

Turn your ambition into action—apply now and shape your future with us.

Job Description

Are you ready to shape a better tomorrow? Join us as a Graduate Project Manager and become part of a team that’s passionate about creating meaningful change through Port and Coastal projects that serve communities and protect our planet.

As we continue to grow, we’re looking for talented graduates to join our collaborative and inclusive teams across the UK. You’ll work alongside experienced professionals in technical advisory, design management, and project management, contributing to projects that make a real difference - from transforming public buildings to supporting the transition to net zero.

Why Join Us?

• Purpose-Driven Work: Our projects improve public services and enhance everyday life. We partner with national and local government departments, developers, investors, and infrastructure operators to deliver impactful solutions.

• Supportive Environment: You’ll be part of a caring and empowering culture that values your wellbeing and personal growth. We celebrate achievements and encourage continuous learning.

• Inclusive & Collaborative Teams: Diversity is our strength. We foster a workplace where everyone feels respected, heard, and supported.

• Opportunities for Growth: From day one, you’ll be trusted with meaningful responsibilities and supported through a structured development programme.

What You’ll Be Doing:

As a Graduate Port Project Manager, you’ll contribute to:

• Engaging with clients, end users, statutory bodies, and stakeholders

• Project programming and financial planning

• Feasibility studies and options appraisals

• Contract administration and design coordination

• Building trusted relationships with clients and colleagues

• Supporting and learning from experienced consultants

We have opportunities in Croydon.

To be eligible for this opportunity, you will have less than 12 months’ relevant experience (excluding placements) and have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree (obtained no earlier than 2024) or expected to achieve one, in one of the following degree disciplines:

• Any engineering

• Project management

• Coastal science

• Geography

In your application, you should aim to demonstrate your genuine interest in both the opportunity and in joining Mott MacDonald. You can do this by highlighting any relevant experience or interests—such as modules you've studied, previous work experience, or any research you've undertaken about our company, values, and projects.

We personally review every completed application we receive as our selection process is entirely human led, we do not use AI tools and kindly expect you not to either. We want you to answer each application question with authenticity so we can get to know the real you. Joining us as a graduate is your opportunity to shape your own story

We are looking for graduates with the following strengths:

• Proactively takes initiative to complete tasks efficiently and independently.

• Communicates effectively and clearly with clients and colleagues.

• Delivers high quality written work with strong attention to detail and clarity.

• Demonstrates a structured and analytical approach to problem solving.

• Well-rounded knowledge on wider environmental issues

• Familiarity with data management, analytics and digital technologies

As we want the best people for the role, we support flexible working. Please ask us at interview stage about any flexibility you may need.

Mott MacDonald Ltd. are not currently offering sponsorship to candidates under the Skilled Worker visa route in the UK. This decision is as a consequence of the changes made to the Skilled Worker route by the UK Government in April 2024.

A graduate position should be more than just a job. We know this and so do you. That’s why with our graduate roles we aim to give you the experience and technical knowledge you need to progress your career. From the moment you join us, you’ll receive the training you need. You will be assigned a mentor, who will guide you to meet the objectives of your professional training needs. You will join our three-year early careers soft skills development programme – Accelerating your Future, which is designed to give you the skills and tools necessary for a long-lasting successful career here at Mott MacDonald.

You will have the opportunity to make a difference; learn more about Our Purpose and the difference we can make!

You’re probably wondering what else is on offer. Join us, and you’ll get:

• Biannual salary reviews: we believe that hard work should be rewarded and recognised. Therefore, for the first three years of your career with us, you’ll have biannual salary reviews.
• A competitive salary: in addition to biannual reviews, we will ensure that you’re given a salary that matches the current industry standard.
• Contributory pension up to 7% of your salary: we have the best people on our team, and we like to look out for them. With our support, you’ll have all the advice and options you need to be able to invest in your future.
• A flexible benefits scheme: our company is made up of a range of different people and we understand that different people want different things. That’s why with our flexible plan, you’ll have the ability to manage the range of benefits we have on offer, to suit your specific needs.

Our social side

Being part of Mott MacDonald means more than just work; there’s a huge range of fun and exciting things that you can get involved in.

From the moment you join us, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your social and professional network, whether it’s meeting other graduates or joining forces with other members of staff from around the company at our annual sports day. Each of our offices have a sports and social committee which will give you the chance to be part of a variety of sports, social and charity events. We’re committed to promoting a strong culture of social responsibility and encourage our staff to play active roles in the local community.

It's worth noting that sports and social committees tend to vary from office to office, so as well as getting involved in what’s already on offer, don’t be afraid to suggest new events or initiatives that you think could be a great addition. It doesn’t stop there. As well as events, you’ll also have access to discounts on cinema tickets, travel, fashion, utilities and much more as part of our company benefits which you can take advantage of the moment you join.