At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering teams in nuclear decommissioning and develop innovative mechanical solutions.
- Company: Cavendish Nuclear, a leader in creating a safe and secure world.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension scheme, and health benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in nuclear safety while advancing your engineering career.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree and extensive experience in leading technical projects.
- Other info: Hybrid working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
Location: Whitehaven, Cumbria + Hybrid Working Arrangements
Compensation: Competitive + Benefits
Role Type: Full time / Permanent
Overview
Lead Engineering Excellence in Nuclear Decommissioning. At Cavendish Nuclear, we’re working to create a safe and secure world, together. If you join us, you can play your part as a Principal Mechanical Engineer at either of our Westlake’s Science Park, Moor Row or Warrington, Cheshire sites.
The role
As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you’ll play a pivotal role in one of the UK’s major civil nuclear decommissioning programmes. Working as a senior technical authority within a multidisciplinary engineering environment, you’ll drive the integration of complex mechanical systems and develop innovative solutions that directly support the safe deconstruction and long‑term management of nuclear facilities.
You’ll lead engineering teams, oversee high‑integrity technical outputs, safeguard design quality, and act as a primary interface for customers—while mentoring engineers and championing continuous improvement across projects. This role places you at the technical forefront of a major expansion within the Cavendish Nuclear Design Services Alliance.
Day-to-day, you’ll have the following responsibilities:
- Lead and manage multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver high‑quality technical solutions
- Supervise and mentor engineers and technical specialists to ensure performance and development
- Act as a key liaison with customers, ensuring transparent communication and technical clarity
- Oversee production, review, and approval of engineering outputs—including calculations, specifications, and reports
- Champion safety, quality, and engineering best practice across all project activities.
This is a full‑time position working 37 hours, 5 days per week, based at either of our Westlake’s Science Park, Moor Row or Warrington, Cheshire sites.
Essential experience
- Extensive experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and delivering complex technical projects
- Proven ability to supervise and mentor engineers and technical specialists
- Strong background in producing, reviewing, and approving detailed engineering outputs
- Demonstrated expertise in applying procedures, codes, and standards to ensure compliance and integrity
- Track record of effective customer engagement, issue resolution, and technical support.
Qualifications
- Engineering degree (or equivalent) in a relevant engineering discipline.
Security clearance
The successful candidate must be able to achieve and maintain Standard (BPSS) security clearance for this role. Further details are available at GOV.UK (Security Vetting: clearance levels).
What we offer
- Generous holiday allowance
- Matched contribution pension scheme, with life assurance
- Access to a Digital GP, annual health check, and nutritional consultations through Aviva DigiCare+
- Employee share scheme
- Employee shopping savings portal
Principal Mechanical Engineer in Carlisle employer: Babcock International
Contact Detail:
Babcock International Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Mechanical Engineer in Carlisle
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the engineering field, especially those who work in nuclear decommissioning. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and leadership skills. Be ready to discuss your experience with multidisciplinary teams and how you've tackled complex projects in the past.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your mentoring abilities! During interviews, highlight how you've supported and developed engineers in your previous roles. This is key for a Principal Mechanical Engineer position.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Mechanical Engineer in Carlisle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Principal Mechanical Engineer role. Highlight your leadership in multidisciplinary teams and any relevant projects you've worked on.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about nuclear decommissioning and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team at Cavendish Nuclear.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise: In your application, don’t shy away from detailing your technical skills and experience. Mention specific engineering outputs you've overseen and how you've ensured compliance with industry standards.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Babcock International
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you'll need to showcase your extensive experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex projects. Brush up on relevant engineering principles, codes, and standards that apply to nuclear decommissioning. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past work that demonstrate your technical expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role involves mentoring engineers and managing teams, so be prepared to talk about your leadership style. Think of instances where you've successfully led a team or resolved conflicts. Highlight how you foster collaboration and continuous improvement within your teams.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's projects and culture. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you. Ask about their approach to safety and quality in engineering practices.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
As a key liaison with customers, clear communication is crucial. Practice articulating your thoughts on complex topics in a straightforward manner. Use examples to illustrate your points, and don't hesitate to clarify any technical details if needed. Confidence in your communication will leave a positive impression.