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- Tasks: Lead the design and development of cutting-edge superconducting magnets for fusion energy.
- Company: Join UK Fusion Energy Ltd., a pioneer in sustainable fusion technology.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a world-changing project that aims for sustainable energy solutions.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in superconducting magnet development and engineering expertise.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with a focus on innovation and collaboration.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 ÂŁ per year.
Fusion energy offers the potential for significant quantities of low-carbon, inherently safe, abundantly fuelled baseload energy, supporting sustainable climate action and energy independence. While the technical challenge remains high, confidence is increasing, and the rewards of realising fusion are almost incalculable. Anticipated to come online for commercial purposes in the middle of this century, fusion offers a viable means to sustainable net zero in the UK and globally, as well as to increased energy security. The UK is currently a world leader in fusion research and development and in the drive to realise commercially viable energy from fusion, a sector with an estimated value of ÂŁtns per year.
STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) is the UK’s flagship national programme to deliver a prototype fusion energy plant, targeting 2040, and a path to the commercial viability of fusion. STEP is deliberately bold and ambitious and seeks people who want to be part of a world-changing endeavour and who have credible and relevant experience in delivery. STEP is led by a new company, UK Fusion Energy Ltd. (UKFE) which was established for this purpose and is wholly owned by the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).
The magnets confining the plasma form the heart of the tokamak device. They are one of the biggest engineering challenges and their design is intimately linked with the plasma performance, overall plant size and maintenance strategy. STEP plans to exploit jointed REBCO magnets to provide the confining field required while allowing access to maintain the machine. This will require some of the biggest HTS magnets yet.
While the STEP programme targets 2040 for the operation of the STEP prototype power plant at the West Burton site, during 2025-2029 (the presently funded “tranche 2a”) the magnet team must mature the design and burn down the biggest technical risks through a step-by-step approach to technology demonstration including model coils. UKIFS must act as overall integrator and design authority while working to develop the supply chain for the fusion power plants of the future – including magnets.
Reporting to the Head of Tokamak Machine, the Magnets Engineering Manager will lead an integrated team including both UKFE / UKAEA staff and the efforts of various specialist external organisations in order to deliver both the necessary design and the necessary confidence in it. The role will develop as the programme approaches construction and external contracts are placed.
The successful candidate will champion cross-functional working with a focus on the best outcomes for the overall programme. They will thrive in a continually changing environment as both the STEP tokamak and the organisation needed to deliver it evolve at pace.
- Accountability 1: Act as Technical Authority for STEP magnets
- Accountability 2: Drive forward magnet design work (including remountable joints) in harmony with the overall plant design
- Accountability 3: Effectively prioritise technical risks and deliver mitigating actions (including the related technology demonstration programme)
- Accountability 4: Interact with other technical and functional areas (e.g. plasma, power & cooling, commercial, prototype & test and project management) and external organisations
- Accountability 5: Effectively develop the magnets team and support the technical and professional development of staff
- Accountability 6: Develop magnets supply chain
- Accountability 7: Embody a Leadership Mindset
Qualifications
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Demonstrated significant leadership experience in the development and / or delivery of superconducting magnets
- Degree or equivalent professional recognition in relevant engineering or scientific discipline
- Chartered engineer or equivalent status with a relevant professional body (or commensurate experience)
- Expert and broad knowledge of magnet technology
- Substantial experience in the engineering of complex systems
- Effective team worker with a practical approach to problem solving and excellent communications
- Proven ability to inspire and motivate
- Demonstrated experience setting strategic direction and revising priorities in a rapidly evolving context coordinating interdisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists
Desirable Experience:
- Expertise in any of the following areas: high temperature superconductors, quench detection and protection, superconducting cable design and development, manufacturing, commissioning & operation, tokamak engineering
- Experience working with emerging technologies
- Experience working on major engineering programmes e.g. big science
We welcome applications from under-represented groups, particularly women in STEM and individuals from British black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities. Our Executive team, supported by our 'Equality, Diversity and Inclusion' (EDI) Partner and Inclusion Ambassadors, actively promotes EDI and takes steps to increase diversity within our organisation. We reinforce best practices in recruitment and selection and evaluate approaches to remove barriers to success.
UKFE is committed to being accessible. Please email talent@ukifs.uk if you have any questions or require help or adjustments to compete on a fair basis, for example, changes to the way we interview or share information.
This role requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions. Whilst not required at this time, there is a possibility of an SC Clearance being required in the future. If a candidate already holds an SC clearance, that clearance can be transferred to UKIFS.
For applicants applying from outside the United Kingdom or those who have spent time outside the UK in the last five years, please visit the following link for information on criminal records checks: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/criminal-records-checks-for-overseas-applicants
Please note that vacancies are generally advertised for 4 weeks but may close earlier if we receive a large number of applications. We may consider your application for future positions or similar positions within the organisation.
We have a number of exceptional opportunities available at the moment, to view them all please visit Careers - STEP.
Magnets Engineering Manager in Abingdon employer: Fusion Energy Base
Contact Detail:
Fusion Energy Base Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Magnets Engineering Manager in Abingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the fusion energy sector, especially those involved with magnets and engineering. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about sliding into DMs on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for fusion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to express your enthusiasm for the field and the impact of fusion energy. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to the STEP programme and its ambitious goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss superconducting magnets, quench detection, and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see that you can not only talk the talk but also walk the walk when it comes to engineering challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our mission to revolutionise energy with fusion. Let’s make it happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Magnets Engineering Manager in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with superconducting magnets and complex systems. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Magnets Engineering Manager, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Magnets Engineering Manager, you'll need to inspire and motivate your team. Use your application to demonstrate your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed interdisciplinary teams in the past. We love seeing examples of how you’ve driven projects forward!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Keep your language straightforward and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We appreciate well-structured applications that get straight to the point while still conveying your passion for fusion energy.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to track your application status. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our mission to revolutionise energy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fusion Energy Base
✨Know Your Magnets Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of superconducting magnets and their applications in fusion energy. Be ready to discuss specific technologies, like high temperature superconductors and quench detection systems, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in managing interdisciplinary teams. Think about times when you inspired your team or navigated complex engineering challenges, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with the STEP programme and its goals. Being able to articulate how your role as a Magnets Engineering Manager fits into the overall mission of delivering a prototype fusion energy plant will demonstrate your commitment and strategic thinking.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect to tackle hypothetical scenarios during the interview. Prepare to discuss how you would prioritise technical risks and manage resources effectively, showcasing your practical approach to problem-solving in a rapidly evolving environment.