Lead Engineer - NDE - RT in Derby

Location: Manchester, Warrington or Derby with Hybrid Working

About Rolls‑Royce SMR

At Rolls‑Royce SMR, we’re delivering a new generation of nuclear power that will play a critical role in the UK’s energy transition. We’re building something genuinely new – combining engineering excellence, innovation and pace to create scalable, low‑carbon power for decades to come. We value diversity, inclusion and different perspectives, and we’re committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels they belong and can do their best work.

What You’ll Be Doing

We need you to lead and shape Radiographic Testing (RT) capability from the ground up across Rolls‑Royce SMR. This is a rare opportunity to take full technical ownership of RT strategy and delivery across factory, site and supply chain environments in a highly regulated nuclear context. You’ll act as the RT technical authority, ensuring capability is safe, compliant, future‑proofed and ready to support manufacture of high‑integrity nuclear components. You’ll work closely with Engineering, Manufacturing, Regulatory Authorities and external partners to establish industrial radiography capability where it does not currently exist – setting standards, gaining permissions and building long‑term delivery models.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, justification and implementation of radiographic testing methods across factory and site environments
• Define the RT strategy for Rolls‑Royce SMR, covering module factories, site activities and the wider supply chain
• Act as RT Subject Matter Expert and technical authority, authoring and approving procedures and methods
• Engage with HSE, ONR, Radiation Protection Advisers and external agencies to secure permissions and maintain compliance
• Ensure all RT activity meets IRR2017, Local Rules and nuclear regulatory expectations
• Support wider Design and Manufacturing Engineering teams with expert RT and NDE input
• Identify and evaluate new RT technologies, including computed and digital radiography where appropriate
• Influence how RT capability scales as the business grows

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who brings strong technical depth and confidence working in regulated environments. You’ll likely have:

• ISO 9712 Level 3 certification in Radiographic Testing (welds as a minimum)
• Proven experience with X‑ray and Gamma radiography
• Demonstrated experience establishing or working within industrial radiography regulatory frameworks
• Strong understanding of HSE Consent for Industrial Radiography and IRR2017 Local Rules
• Experience operating as a technical authority, including procedure development and approval
• The confidence to engage regulators and senior stakeholders on complex technical topics

Desirable Experience

It would be beneficial if you also have:

• Experience of site‑based pipework radiography
• Exposure to computed or digital radiography
• Broader NDE knowledge (e.g. UT, PT, MT)
• Experience in nuclear, defence, oil & gas or other high‑integrity regulated industries

If you meet around 75% of the criteria, we’d still really like to hear from you.

Ways of Working & Location

This role can be based at any RR‑SMR location (Derby, Warrington, Manchester). Flexible and home working is supported, especially in the early phases. Reasonable travel will be required for supplier and site engagement. Full‑time hours are 37.5 per week, with flexibility available.

Team & Future Growth

You won’t have direct reports initially, but this role will form the technical cornerstone of a future NDE support team as Rolls‑Royce SMR scales. You’ll play a key role in shaping how RT capability develops long‑term.

Reward & Benefits

Salary: £60,000 - £78,750

• Benefits allowance: £2,200
• Bonus opportunity: 12.5%
• Pension: Standard Rolls‑Royce SMR pension 12%
• Holiday: 28 days plus bank holidays
• Life assurance: 6x pensionable salary
• Income protection: 50%
• £250 new joiner payment
• Flexible and part‑time working options available

Inclusion & Adjustments

We’re committed to building an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you need any reasonable adjustments at any stage, please let us know – we’re happy to support.

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