Mechanical Equipment Engineer in Shinfield

Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) has supported the UK Government’s nuclear defence strategy for over 75 years, providing innovative solutions in nuclear and non‑nuclear facilities. Bechtel collaborates with AWE to deliver preliminary design for the Future Materials Campus, ensuring the project is completed on schedule and within budget.

This position is for a Mechanical Equipment Engineer on a multi‑year contract for a UK nuclear infrastructure programme. The engineer will support the Engineering Manager via the Project Engineer for Process, Plant and Equipment (PPE) as the technical representative for Mechanical engineering activities within the PPE team.

Responsibilities include:

• Preparing technical reports, studies, design calculations, procurement documentation, and supporting design reviews.
• Participating in optioneering and preparing design philosophies for mechanical equipment.
• Preparing mechanical equipment deliverables including Basis of Design (BoD), system definitions, calculations, performance standards, equipment specifications, layouts, inspection plans, test plans, and reviewing deliverables from other disciplines in line with requirements and applicable codes.
• Designing equipment such as dissolvers, ion exchange columns, precipitation vessels, storage and buffer tanks, condensers, etc.
• Producing drawings and 3D models to support facility designs through Concept Design.
• Supporting studies assessing the environmental impact and sustainability of the proposed design and construction approach.
• Participating in workshops such as 3D model reviews, HAZID, HAZOP, constructability reviews, and value engineering, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.
• Providing inputs to safety cases and regulatory documentation.
• Participating in the preparation of Interface Control Documents (ICDs) and resolving interface issues.
• Addressing manufacturing, fabrication, and installation requirements.
• Documenting lifecycle aspects: operations, maintenance, material movement philosophies, and decommissioning.

Education And Experience Requirements:

• A recognised bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from an accredited college or university.
• Minimum 6 years post‑graduation design experience, with at least 3 in the nuclear industry preferable.
• A Chartered Engineer designation.

Required Knowledge And Skills:

• Experience designing mechanical equipment for the nuclear industry.
• End‑to‑end mechanical design capability from concept to implementation.
• Strong mechanical system and equipment design expertise.
• Proficiency in engineering calculations and technical documentation.
• Knowledge of engineering codes, standards, and legislation.
• Experience defining test and verification strategies (FAT/SAT).
• Ability to identify and mitigate technical risks.
• Multidisciplinary integration (mechanical, electrical, civil).
• Supplier evaluation and technical delivery support.
• Strong critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong organisational skills.
• Relevant industrial experience, with general nuclear experience a plus.
• Must obtain Security Clearance (SC) for access to the AWE site.

Other:

• The role is based primarily at Aldermaston UK, with travel to Bechtel’s London office as required.
• Flexibility includes three days per week on site and two days from home or the Bechtel office.
• Only UK Nationals are eligible for this position.
• This position is subject to a successful interview and agreement upon terms and conditions of employment.

Total Rewards/Benefits:

Bechtel offers comprehensive benefits to support career development, program delivery, and well‑being.

Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. We are committed to providing reasonable adjustments for those with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.