2026 Spain Graduate Civil Aviation Career Path

Before making an application, please browse all graduate opportunities available as we will only accept one application per candidate.  Once you have made an application you will not be able to make changes to your selection or make a new application.  The exception is if we open new vacancies in the new year. 

To avoid missing out on your preferred opportunity, we also recommend that you apply as soon as possible as we will close when the position has been filled. 

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

Please note candidates must be able to speak English and the language of the country you have applied for.  

Job Description

Our aviation team consists of 70 planners, engineers and analysts with over 20 different nationalities, working together to deliver world-class airport consultancy services to our clients. We provide planning, engineering and analytical services for all sizes of airports, ranging from small regional to some of the biggest and best airports in the world, including London Heathrow, Hong Kong International Airport, Singapore Changi and New York JFK. As one of the world's most experienced aviation consultancies, our client portfolio includes airports, governments, civil aviation authorities, airport companies, equity investors and providers of debt finance; so there really is no better place to start your career.  

We have provided project finance, business planning and transaction advice for $75bn worth of airport assets in over 100 countries. Globally recognised as a key player in the industry, our work was awarded with the 2018 Infrastructure Journal Global Awards for Best Airport Deal in North America for Wade International Airport in Bermuda, the Best Airport Deal in Europe for the 14 Greek Regional Airports and Best Airport Deal in Africa for Antananarivo and Nosy Be Airports in Madagascar.  

What You’ll Do:

• Innovate & Inspire: Collaborate with experts to deliver projects that enhance airport infrastructure, improve passenger experience, and advance sustainable aviation. 

• Grow & Achieve: Benefit from structured training, mentorship, and clear pathways for professional development—your growth is our priority. 

• Make an Impact: Contribute to projects that support global connectivity, economic growth, and environmental stewardship. 

Airport Planner (Masters Essential) – Croydon 

As a graduate joining our airport planning team, you’ll step into a role that blends technical insight with strategic thinking, contributing to projects that shape the future of aviation infrastructure. From masterplanning through to design development and technical advisory, your work will cover all airport facilities (airfield, aprons, terminals, landside transport, utilities, and support buildings), while also working on emerging areas such as sustainable air transport, future travel experience and advanced air mobility. You’ll be involved in both spatial and strategic planning, using analytical methods and simulation tools to support decision-making.  

Working on landmark international airport projects alongside more experienced colleagues, you’ll gain practical insight into how airport planning projects are delivered globally. The role also includes supporting client and stakeholder engagement, and collaborating with other disciplines such as airfield engineering, transaction advisory, forecasting, project/asset management, and business planning. 

Why Join Us? 

• Purpose-Driven Work: Every day, your contributions will help shape a safer, more sustainable, and more connected world. 

• Continuous Growth: From day one, you’ll be supported to reach your full potential—professionally and personally. 

• Inclusive Culture: Be yourself and thrive in a workplace where everyone belongs and is empowered to succeed. 

• Societal Impact: Your work will help connect communities, support economic development, and drive positive change in the aviation industry. 

Candidate Specification

At Mott MacDonald, we’re looking for curious, motivated graduates who want to make a real difference.  Join our purpose-driven teams where your ideas matter, your growth is supported, and your work enhances the world we live in. 

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

Civil engineering / aeronautical engineering/ airport planning / transport planning / architecture and/or air transport management. 

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. 

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.

We have opportunities in the following location; Madrid – Spain

About your development 

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 chartered mentor, who will guide you to meet the objectives of your professional training agreement. We’ll support you on your journey to gaining chartered status with your chosen institution. 

Accelerating your Future – our early careers development programme 

 
Mott Macdonald will support the development of technical and practical skills like presentation and report writing skills, and data analysis, alongside your personal development. 

Additionally, 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. 

Equality, diversity and inclusion

We put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our business, seeking to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all. We encourage individual expression in our workplace and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they have the opportunity to contribute.

Agile working

At Mott MacDonald, we believe it makes business sense for you and your manager to choose how you can work most effectively to meet your client, team and personal commitments. We embrace agility, flexibility and trust.

More about Mott MacDonald

We’re a global engineering, management and development consultancy.
Our purpose is to improve society by considering social outcomes in everything we do, relentlessly focusing on excellence and digital innovation, transforming our clients’ businesses, our communities and employee opportunities.
A fundamental part of this is respecting each person’s differences and striving to meet their needs.
Our values: progress, respect, integrity, drive, excellence