Hoare Lea

2026 Graduate Mechanical Engineer

Oxford

About Us

Hoare Lea is a human-centric and planet-conscious engineering consultancy. We offer intelligent and sustainable solutions to complex design challenges for the built environment throughout the UK and further afield.

We provide a wide range of engineering and consultancy services, including acoustics, air quality, building services (MEP), fire, lighting, security and sustainability to name but a few. Together, our highly skilled teams use technical expertise and problem-solving skills to bring buildings to life. We ensure that whatever the building, its design is outstanding, and its operations meet the needs of the communities it serves.

We are as committed to providing an environment where everyone can realise their unique potential. So, in joining Hoare Lea, you will experience a business that enriches your knowledge, supports your wellbeing, and welcomes your individuality. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in our 9-day fortnight scheme, thriving community groups, varied social and networking events, and extensive professional and technical development schemes. We also offer an extensive benefits package, including private medical cover, electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, and up to 30 days of annual leave.

Whatever your ambitions or circumstances, our aim is to enable everyone to develop their knowledge, give their best, and enjoy what they do.

Why Work For Us?

• You’ll collaborate with the industry’s best, working with a wide range of built-environment specialists.
• You’ll be part of progressive and exciting projects, able to experience innovative schemes across all sectors.
• You’ll advance your career, your way, thanks to our structured Career Paths framework.

In addition, we will provide you with structure support to achieve Chartered Engineering status if you so wish.

The Role

As a graduate engineer, your day-to-day tasks will vary, as we’ll expose you to all aspects of our work so you can discover what suits you. You could be;

• Working on live projects from day one – click here to view our exciting projects
• In a variety of sectors from healthcare to hotels
• Producing detailed designs and drawings
• Using the latest computer modelling software CAD and Revit
• Undertaking site surveys
• Researching ground-breaking technologies
• Continuous CPD and learning opportunities
• Mechanical – your typical work might include helping design, create and solve Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Control Systems
• You will produce designs for above and below ground drainage systems and hot and cold-water services to standard, budget and deadline.

Communicating will span all of these, as we regularly liaise with project teams, meet clients or end users, and attend collaborative meetings.

You will receive a dedicated mentor and supervisor and you will receive the best training to support you through your development with us.

What We Are Looking For

• An expected or achieved 2.1 or above IMechE or CIBSE accredited degree or equivalent qualification in Mechanical Engineering or similar
• A masters or other relevant post graduate qualification is an advantage
• Previous placement or work experience in a similar industry is an advantage
• An understanding of CAD or similar modelling software is an advantage
• Excellent communication, analytical and organisational skills
• Ability to work in a team environment and independently
• A friendly, ambitious and confident individual with a flexible and resilient approach

Our Benefits

To reward your hard work and commitment we offer both core and flexible benefits, a competitive salary and industry leading training and development to support you throughout your career. For further information on the benefits we offer click here

How to Apply

To apply simply complete a CV profile and submit your application and for hints and tips in applying click here

Please note: We do not offer visa sponsorship for this graduate role. Only candidates already authorised to work in the UK—e.g. British/Irish citizens, EU Settled/Pre-Settled, ILR holders—will be considered.

Diversity, equity and inclusion

We are committed to being a place where underrepresented individuals and communities are not just included, but where marginalised knowledge and experience is valued, amplified, and harnessed. So, we strongly encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including women, people of the Global Majority, LGBTQ+ individuals, disabled people, neurodivergent people, and those from all other underrepresented or marginalised groups. To learn more about our approach to diversity, equity and inclusion, see our DEI strategy.

Adjustments and accommodations

If there are adjustments or accommodations that we can put in place to ensure you can participate and give your best at any stage of the recruitment process (whether relating to disability, neurodivergence, or anything else) please let us know.

Flexible working

We are committed to enabling a healthy work-life balance for all employees. So, we welcome applications from candidates seeking flexible working arrangements to suit their particular needs and lifestyle, including part-time, term-time-only, and remote working.

Data privacy

We have updated our terms and conditions for candidates, click here to find out more.