Head of Mechanical Equipment in Derby

Engineering – Reactor Components & Mechanical Equipment

Locations: Hybrid working with one of the following locations as primary: Manchester, Derby or Warrington

Our mission

Our mission is to deliver clean, affordable energy for all. Our Small Modular Reactor provides a British solution to a global energy challenge. We are in pole position to become a world leader in SMRs and the UK’s premier green export technology.

The team

The Components and Mechanical Equipment function is fundamental to realising our SMR design. We define, integrate and govern the mechanical systems at the core of the reactor and power station, ensuring technical integrity, safety and industrial readiness as the programme scales.

The role

In this context, we are looking for a Head of Mechanical Equipment, reporting to the Chief Design Engineer – Components and Mechanical Equipment. Leading a department of around 60 engineers and acting as the CDE’s delegated authority, this role provides senior technical and leadership accountability for a critical part of the SMR programme. It is a high‑profile role with real influence over technical direction, delivery outcomes and team capability.

What you’ll be responsible for

• Acting as delegated design authority, leading technical governance, risk and programme reviews
• Directing the development and delivery of mechanical systems including plant, commodity and support equipment
• Owning product development and delivery plans, milestones, risks and opportunities
• Managing engineering change, substantiation and safety case delivery in line with regulatory expectations
• Leading, developing and scaling a large multidisciplinary engineering organisation
• Working closely with projects, operations and the supply chain to support industrialisation strategy

Why this role matters

This is a pivotal leadership role within Engineering, requiring confidence, credibility and judgement. You’ll balance strong technical understanding with strategic and commercial awareness, influencing decisions across the business and helping shape the long‑term success of the SMR programme.

What we’re looking for

• Degree‑qualified in Mechanical Engineering (or related discipline) and Chartered Engineer or equivalent
• Proven experience leading large engineering teams and delivering complex, safety‑critical systems
• Experience providing technical authority, governing design, and leading through ambiguity in regulated environments
• Backgrounds from nuclear, aerospace, defence, oil & gas or similar sectors are well suited, though transferable experience is welcomed.

Location & ways of working

We offer hybrid and flexible working. You’ll be expected to attend one of our offices in Manchester, Derby or Warrington regularly, aligned with programme and business needs.

What’s in it for you

We offer a competitive senior leadership salary and benefits package, including bonus, pension and private medical cover. You’ll have real influence, long‑term career opportunities, and the chance to lead within one of the UK’s most significant clean‑energy programmes.

Selection process

The process will include an initial conversation with our Talent Acquisition team followed by two interview stages. Due to the nature of the role, BPSS clearance, a DBS check and basic financial probity screening will be required.

Our commitment to inclusion

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. As a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to inclusive and supportive recruitment practices and will make reasonable workplace adjustments where required.

Confidence can sometimes hold us back from applying. There’s no such thing as a ‘perfect’ candidate — if you meet around 75% of the requirements, we’d love to hear from you. We also welcome applications from those considering a sector move and bringing transferable skills.

Why Join Us?

You’ll be joining a forward-thinking organisation that values transparency, fairness, and innovation. We offer:

• A flexible, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
• Opportunities for career growth in a rapidly scaling business.
• A culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Inclusivity is important to us, and as a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to fair, supportive, and continually improving recruitment practices that ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Confidence can sometimes hold us back from applying for a job. But we'll let you in on a secret: there's no such thing as a 'perfect' candidate. If you feel you meet 75% of the requirements for this role, we would love to hear from you. Also, if you are considering a career move or a sector-jump, please get in touch – we welcome applications from people with transferable skills.

Our Application Process

Due to the safety regulations within the nuclear industry, applicants will be required to participate in additional screening. These are:

• Obtaining Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance
• Satisfactory completion of a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
• Satisfactory completion of a basic financial probity check