At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the safe and efficient operations of the MAST-U facility in fusion energy.
- Company: Join UKAEA, a leader in clean, carbon-free fusion energy innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with strong career development opportunities and support for diverse backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the future of energy while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: MSc or PhD in physics/engineering and experience in leading technical teams required.
The predicted salary is between 81090 - 81090 £ per year.
Location: Culham Science Centre, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
Full‑time Salary: £81,090 (inclusive of a Specialist Allowance)
Onsite working expected 5 days each week; flexible working arrangements are supported.
Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks required.
Company Description: Fusion is the process that powers the Sun and stars and is a promising source of clean, carbon‑free energy. UKAEA leads the way in realizing fusion energy, partnering with industry and research on groundbreaking advancements and bringing fusion electricity to the grid via tomorrow’s power stations.
Core values: Innovative, Committed, Trusted, Collaborative.
Benefits:
- Outstanding defined benefit pension scheme
- Corporate bonus scheme up to 7% and a relocation allowance (if eligible)
- Flexible working options, including family‑friendly policies and right to request flexible working from the start of employment
- Employee Assistance Programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders
- Generous annual leave allowance: 25 days plus 3 days’ Christmas closure and 2.5 privilege days, in addition to UK bank holidays
- Wide range of career development opportunities
- A vibrant culture committed to equality and full inclusion
Responsibilities:
The Tokamak Operations Manager plays a central role in the safe, reliable, and efficient day‑to‑day running of the MAST‑U facility. This includes overseeing operational periods, commissioning new plant systems, and ensuring operational milestones are achieved. The role involves leading and coordinating multidisciplinary expert teams, providing innovative solutions to technical challenges, acting as a key advisor on machine operations, engaging with stakeholders, and supporting the broader fusion research community.
Additional Responsibilities:
- Lead coordination meetings to manage tasks, staffing, and delivery of operational periods in line with programme objectives
- Guide the operations team to deliver compliant machine operations through robust operating procedures
- Provide clear measurable goals for the successful operation of the machine and deliver against them
- Act as the senior point of approval on operations matters for all plant modifications, evaluating and recommending areas of expenditure that would benefit efficient operations
- Ensure effective communication of the operating schedule and status to all relevant stakeholders
- Review technical aspects of new plant, diagnostics, and systems to ensure fitness for operational use
- Oversee commissioning activities to ensure work is carried out in a safe, effective, and efficient manner
- Act as restart manager after shutdowns to deliver the experimental campaign as required by the programme
- Monitor progress of activities affecting operations to ensure interventions are timed to minimise the impact on operations
Qualifications:
Essential Requirements:
- MSc or PhD in physics or engineering subject, or equivalent experience in a relevant field
- Relevant experience of commissioning and operating a large facility
- Significant demonstrable experience of leading multi‑disciplinary technical teams at a national or multinational facility
- Proven excellent interpersonal skills with experience working alongside a range of engineering and scientific colleagues
- Significant safety management experience
Equal Opportunity: UK Atomic Energy Authority is committed to being accessible. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and are committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Applications from underrepresented groups in STEM, including women and ethnic minorities, are particularly encouraged.
Tokamak Operations Manager in Abingdon employer: Physics World
At UKAEA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. Our employees benefit from a generous pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, and extensive career development opportunities, all while contributing to groundbreaking advancements in fusion energy at our state-of-the-art facility in Culham, Oxfordshire. Join us in our mission to lead the way in clean energy solutions and enjoy a fulfilling career in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Tokamak Operations Manager in Abingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fusion energy sector, especially those at UKAEA. 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 and leadership skills. Think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and tackle complex challenges. We want to see how you can bring innovative solutions to the table!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for fusion energy! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them know why you’re excited about the work they do. Your enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re committed to their mission.
✨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 the team at UKAEA and contributing to groundbreaking advancements in fusion energy.
We think you need these skills to ace Tokamak Operations Manager in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Tokamak Operations Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in commissioning and operating large facilities, and don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills with multidisciplinary teams. We want to see how you fit into our innovative and collaborative culture!
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 background aligns with our core values. Be sure to mention any specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your expertise in safety management and operations.
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills:Since this role involves working closely with various engineering and scientific colleagues, make sure to highlight your excellent interpersonal skills. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in past roles, as we value teamwork and communication at StudySmarter.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Physics World
✨Know Your Fusion Facts
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fusion energy and the specific technologies used at the MAST-U facility. Understanding the basics of how a tokamak operates and recent advancements in fusion research will show your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Tokamak Operations Manager, you'll be leading multidisciplinary teams. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led teams, resolved conflicts, or implemented innovative solutions to technical challenges. This will highlight your leadership capabilities and collaborative spirit.
✨Safety First!
Given the significant safety management experience required for this role, be ready to discuss your approach to safety in operations. Share specific instances where you ensured compliance with safety protocols and how you handled any safety-related challenges in previous roles.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Effective communication is key in this role. Think about times when you've had to engage with various stakeholders, whether they were technical teams, management, or external partners. Be prepared to discuss how you ensured everyone was informed and aligned with operational goals.
