At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative engineering projects in fusion energy and design cutting-edge power systems.
- Company: Join UKFE, a pioneer in sustainable fusion energy development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and excellent pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy with groundbreaking technology.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree and extensive experience in complex power generation systems required.
The predicted salary is between 64115 - 64115 £ per year.
About the Role
UKFE, a subsidiary of the UKAEA, focuses on developing fusion sustainable energy. The STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) programme aims to build a prototype fusion plant, targeting first operations around 2040. Onsite working is expected for three days each week, with flexible working options supported. The salary is £64,115 plus a specialist allowance of £7,700 and excellent benefits including a pension scheme, bonus scheme up to 7%, relocation allowance (if eligible), generous annual leave, and other benefits.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Act as Process Engineering Subject Matter Expert for Power & Cooling systems, support programme‑wide engineering governance and assurance.
- Lead design and delivery of Power & Cooling process systems from concept to detailed design.
- Ensure technical integrity, safety, manufacturability and performance of all designs.
- Provide process modelling and analysis expertise to support design development and validation.
- Lead and develop a multi‑disciplinary team, providing technical direction and assurance.
- Own and deliver process‑related technology development and testing programmes with internal and external partners.
- Apply systems engineering principles to manage requirements, interfaces, risks and trade‑offs.
- Lead technical engagement with suppliers and collaborators, acting as an intelligent customer.
- Ensure compliance with relevant codes, standards, regulations and engineering governance processes.
- Promote strong leadership mindset, fostering collaboration, high standards and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
Essential- A relevant engineering degree or equivalent.
- Extensive experience of complex engineering projects.
- Proven experience delivering complex process/mechanical engineering systems used in power generation (major cooling systems, power cycles).
- Experience developing and delivering complex process/mechanical equipment and components (turbines, compressors, pumps, heat exchangers, pressure vessels, valves, process control, nuclear chemistry control, gas storage).
- Experience designing, commissioning and operating high pressure (up to 100bar) and high temperature (up to 600°C) systems.
- Excellent understanding of UK regulations, codes and standards for power plants.
- Proven capability in engineering analysis.
- Proven safety track record, designing for safety.
- Ability to perform exploratory design calculations using first principles.
- Broad & deep understanding of engineering design, manufacture, testing, operations.
- Strategic and innovative thinker.
- Good communication and technical writing skills.
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to modern Safety, Health, Environment & Quality Assurance standards.
- Experience managing teams of up to 5.
- Experience managing significant external contracts (£500k or higher).
- Chartered status with suitable professional institution.
- Experience in a power plant or delivering designs for power plants.
- Experience in nuclear environment design, materials, coolant chemistry.
- Experience in the fusion industry, tokamak coolant loops, chemistry control, fusion power generating systems.
- Experience designing, commissioning and operating very high pressure systems up to 300bar.
- Understanding of modern project management tools.
Additional Information
We welcome applications from under‑represented groups, particularly women in STEM, individuals from British black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities. UKFE is committed to accessibility and promotes EDI. Applicants selected for an interview will need to complete a Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks.
Closing date: 5th June 2026. Location: West Burton, Nottinghamshire.
Lead Process Engineer employer: Fusion Energy Base
UKFE, a subsidiary of the UKAEA, is an exceptional employer dedicated to pioneering sustainable fusion energy. With a strong emphasis on employee well-being, we offer competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous annual leave and a robust pension scheme. Our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and professional growth, making it an ideal environment for engineers looking to make a meaningful impact in the energy sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Process Engineer
✨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 Lead Process Engineer role you’re after at Fusion Energy Base.
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Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Fusion Energy Base a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Fusion Energy Base.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Lead Process Engineer at Fusion Energy Base, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Process Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Lead Process Engineer, 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 Fusion Energy Base 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 Fusion Energy Base 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 Fusion Energy Base
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Fusion Energy Base, 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 Fusion Energy Base 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.
