At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative engineering projects in fusion energy, ensuring safety and performance.
- 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: Be at the forefront of fusion technology and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree and extensive experience in complex power generation systems.
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 in Retford employer: Fusion Energy Base
UKFE, a pioneering subsidiary of the UKAEA, offers an exceptional work environment for Lead Process Engineers, focusing on innovative fusion energy solutions. With a strong commitment to employee development, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package including generous annual leave and a bonus scheme, UKFE fosters a collaborative culture that values diversity and inclusion. Located in West Burton, Nottinghamshire, employees benefit from a supportive atmosphere that encourages professional growth and engagement in groundbreaking projects aimed at sustainable energy production.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Process Engineer in Retford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the fusion energy sector, especially those connected to UKFE. Attend industry events or webinars and don’t be shy about introducing yourself – you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Since this role involves complex engineering systems, make sure you can discuss your past projects confidently. We recommend practising common interview questions related to process engineering and safety standards.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! If you’ve led teams or projects, be ready to share specific examples of how you fostered collaboration and drove results. This will highlight your fit for the role and demonstrate your commitment to high standards.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the UKFE team and contributing to the exciting STEP programme.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Process Engineer in Retford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Lead Process Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in complex engineering projects and any specific skills that match the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about fusion energy and how your expertise can contribute to our STEP programme. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your technical skills, especially those related to power and cooling systems. Mention any experience with high-pressure systems or safety design principles. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our fantastic benefits there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fusion Energy Base
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of power and cooling systems, especially in relation to fusion energy. Familiarise yourself with the STEP programme and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Process Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a multi-disciplinary team. Prepare examples of past experiences where you've successfully managed teams and projects, highlighting your communication and interpersonal skills.
✨Understand the Regulations
Get a solid grasp of UK regulations, codes, and standards for power plants. Be prepared to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous roles, as this will show your commitment to safety and quality assurance.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the company’s future projects. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the company culture and values align with yours.
