At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering for nuclear power projects, managing teams and ensuring successful execution.
- Company: Alva Energy, a pioneering company in nuclear power advancements.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a chance to shape the future of energy.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team focused on cutting-edge technology and sustainable energy solutions.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in the energy sector while leading innovative engineering teams.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in engineering and 10-15 years of relevant experience required.
The predicted salary is between 47250 - 57750 £ per year.
Alva Energy is developing a large nuclear power uprate project. We are hiring an Engineering Director to report to the CTO and lead engineering from early-stage screening through design maturity and field execution, owning multi-discipline integration, EPC performance, major equipment technical direction, and stakeholder coordination. This role blends power plant systems leadership with project engineering/program leadership. You’ll manage both the internal Alva engineering team and external engineering contractors/EPC partners, and you’ll interface directly with site owners and key OEMs/suppliers.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead multi-discipline engineering delivery: coordinate mechanical, electrical/I&C, civil/structural engineering.
- Own plant power integration: lead system design for modifications and tie-ins to the existing plant.
- Manage EPCs and engineering contractors: define scopes, interfaces, and deliverables; run design/progress reviews; oversee technical performance, RFIs, design changes, and issue resolution.
- Drive stage-gated engineering maturity: lead engineering maturity from FEL-1 through FEL-3 (or 30/60/90%), setting deliverables, quality criteria, and gate reviews.
- Develop specs and review technical deliverables: draft/review engineering standards, technical specifications, and contract scopes for EPC and major equipment.
- Own major equipment technical direction: develop technical specifications for steam turbines, condensers, and feedwater/condensate systems; conduct technical evaluations of vendor proposals and designs.
- Translate engineering into field execution: support construction-ready work packaging and execution plans; provide engineering support during construction, commissioning, and startup.
- Work across balance-of-plant and NSSS modifications.
- Build and lead the team: hire, onboard, mentor, and grow Alva’s engineering function; improve standards, tools, and operating cadence for project delivery.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Nuclear, Industrial, Petroleum, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, or related engineering discipline.
- 10-15 years of experience in power plant systems engineering and/or leading engineering on large power or process-industry projects with significant EPC or Owner’s Engineer interaction.
- Extensive knowledge of steam cycles and power conversion systems; strong understanding of steam turbine plants and major BOP systems.
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills; willingness to travel up to ~25% to sites and suppliers.
- Experience managing engineering teams across multiple disciplines, including leading both internal engineers and external contractors/EPC partners.
- Background in a hard-tech startup taking complex systems from 0→1 (concept to first deployment).
- Engineering leadership in oil & gas, petrochemicals, refining, LNG, or conventional power generation environments with high rigor around safety, codes, and execution.
Engineering Director, Nuclear Power & Systems Integration in Cambridge employer: Alva Energy, Inc
Alva Energy, Inc. is an exceptional employer located in the innovative hub of Cambridge, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and creativity. Employees benefit from comprehensive growth opportunities, including leadership development and exposure to cutting-edge nuclear technologies, all while contributing to meaningful projects that shape the future of energy. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to excellence and sustainability in the nuclear sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Engineering Director, Nuclear Power & Systems Integration in Cambridge
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Engineering Director, Nuclear Power & Systems Integration role you’re after at Alva Energy, Inc.
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✨Engage with Online Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace Engineering Director, Nuclear Power & Systems Integration in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Engineering Director, Nuclear Power & Systems Integration, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Alva Energy, Inc a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Alva Energy, Inc specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Alva Energy, Inc
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Alva Energy, Inc, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Alva Energy, Inc want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
