At a Glance
- 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.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to accessibility and innovation.
- Why this job: Be part of a world-changing project that aims for sustainable energy solutions.
- Qualifications: Leadership experience in superconducting magnets and a relevant engineering degree.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Fusion energy offers the potential for significant quantities of low-carbon, inherently safe, abundantly fuelled baseline 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, and to increased energy security. The UK is 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 £tns 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 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. Responsible for overall adequacy of magnet design and development: performance, integrity and technical delivery.
- Accountability 2: Drive forward magnet design work (including remountable joints) in harmony with the overall plant design. Prioritise design efforts to allow convergence of overall plant design. Guide the team to achieve target design definition levels and confidence levels required by the programme. Manage interfaces with wider STEP power plant systems. Ensure intellectual property generated by the programme is managed in accordance with UKIFS policy.
- Accountability 3: Effectively prioritise technical risks and deliver mitigating actions including the related technology demonstration programme. Drive technology demonstration to eliminate major obstacles and increase confidence in the fulfilment of magnet requirements. Continually review priorities and deploy resources accordingly.
- Accountability 4: Interact with other technical and functional areas (e.g. plasma, power & cooling, commercial, prototype & test and project management) and external organisations. Champion cross-functional working. Make informed decisions and solve problems effectively, considering diverse perspectives and organisational goals. Pursue best-for-programme solutions and lead cross-functional teams to implement them. Work with Project Managers to manage budget and milestones.
- Accountability 5: Effectively develop the magnets team and support the technical and professional development of staff. Develop strategy for magnet staff recruitment, retention, training & development. Work with the UKFE Prototype & Test team to build corporate competence and practical experience in technical disciplines related to magnet design, manufacture and operations. Foster a culture of world-class innovation and practical delivery.
- Accountability 6: Engage with global technical and manufacturing experts in industry and research institutes to develop technical solutions and promote the build-up of manufacturing capacity. Work with the commercial team to maximise the value added by supply-chain bodies in the UK for the STEP programme and beyond. Ensure effective technical and quality management of contracts and collaborations.
- Accountability 7: Foster a positive and inclusive team environment that aligns with our cultural values; contribute to maintaining a respectful and collaborative workplace, valuing diversity, and promoting teamwork. Act as a cultural ambassador, representing our organisation’s values and professionalism in interactions with colleagues, clients and stakeholders. Lead by example, demonstrating integrity, professionalism and ethical behaviour.
Qualifications – Essential: Demonstrated significant leadership experience in the development and/or delivery of superconducting magnets. Degree or equivalent professional recognition in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline. Chartered engineer or equivalent status with a relevant professional body (or commensurate experience). Expertise and broad knowledge of magnet technology. Substantial experience in engineering complex systems. Effective team worker with a practical approach to problem solving and excellent communication skills. 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.
Qualifications – Desirable: 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.
This role requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions. A possibility of SC clearance may be required in the future, which could be transferred to UKIFS if already held.
Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: We welcome applications from under-represented groups, particularly women in STEM and individuals from British black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities. UKFE is committed to accessibility and to removing barriers to recruitment and selection. If you require adjustments to compete fairly, please email talent@ukifs.uk.
Magnets Engineering Manager in Leyburn employer: Fusion Energy Base
UK Fusion Energy Ltd. (UKFE) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of fusion energy development in the UK. With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, employees benefit from a collaborative work culture that values diversity and fosters professional growth through continuous learning and development. Located at the West Burton site, team members are part of a world-changing endeavour, contributing to a project with the potential to revolutionise energy production while enjoying a supportive environment that champions cross-functional teamwork and inclusivity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Magnets Engineering Manager in Leyburn
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the fusion energy sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to people 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. Talk about why you want to be part of this world-changing endeavour and how your skills can contribute to the success of the STEP programme.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Make sure you’re familiar with the latest advancements in superconducting magnets and fusion technology. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got all the latest job listings, and applying directly shows you’re serious about joining our team. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Magnets Engineering Manager in Leyburn
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!
Show 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, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role, and make sure to proofread for any typos or errors before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there, which can help you tailor your application even further!
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 prepared to discuss specific technologies like high temperature superconductors and quench detection, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Magnets Engineering Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership experience. Think of examples where you've successfully led interdisciplinary teams or managed complex engineering projects, and be ready to share how you inspired and motivated your team.
✨Prepare for Technical Challenges
Expect questions about how you would tackle technical risks and challenges in magnet design. Have a few strategies in mind for mitigating risks and driving technology demonstrations, as this will show your proactive approach to problem-solving.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Inclusion
This role requires cross-functional teamwork, so be ready to discuss how you've fostered a positive and inclusive team environment in the past. Highlight any experiences where you've worked with diverse groups to achieve common goals.
