At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex engineering projects in the exciting field of nuclear power.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce SMR, a pioneer in clean energy innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and generous holiday allowance.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for continuous learning and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy while growing your career.
- Qualifications: Project management expertise and experience in engineering environments.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 78750 £ per year.
Location: Manchester/ Warrington or Derby (hybrid working available). This role may require international travel in the EU.
About Rolls‑Royce SMR
At Rolls‑Royce SMR, we’re pioneering the future of clean energy. Our mission is to deliver affordable, low‑carbon nuclear power through small modular reactors (SMRs), helping to transform how the world generates electricity. We believe diversity of thought drives innovation. That’s why we’re committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported to do their best work.
Our Team & Mission
You’ll join our Programme Management function, working on the Temelin Plant Design programme—supporting the delivery of a next‑generation nuclear power station. This is a highly collaborative environment, bringing together engineering, procurement, regulatory and programme teams to deliver complex, high‑impact projects.
The Role
We need you to lead the delivery of specific design work packages within the Temelin programme. Reporting to the Programme Manager, you’ll work closely with Engineering Managers and multidisciplinary teams to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards. This role combines hands‑on project leadership with stakeholder management across complex engineering and regulatory environments.
What We Need You To Do
- Deliver projects safely, on time and within budget.
- Maintain robust project plans with support from Project Planners.
- Forecast and manage project finances alongside Cost Engineers.
- Lead cross‑functional collaboration with engineering and programme teams.
- Identify and manage risks, implementing clear mitigation plans.
- Provide clear reporting and escalate issues where needed.
- Create a positive, high‑performing team environment.
- Capture lessons learned and continuously improve ways of working.
- Support engagement with external stakeholders where required.
- Ensure compliance with project management governance.
What You’ll Bring
- Project Management Expertise (High priority).
- Experience delivering complex, multi‑year engineering projects.
- Strong capability across planning, scheduling, budgeting and risk management.
- Confidence using tools such as Primavera P6, MS Project or similar.
- Understanding of engineering environments and project delivery lifecycle.
- Experience working in regulated industries (e.g. nuclear, infrastructure, energy) is beneficial.
- Ability to influence at all levels and simplify complex topics.
- Strong relationship‑building skills across internal and external stakeholders.
Leadership Behaviours
- You create clarity, motivate teams, and take accountability.
- You are adaptable, organised and solution‑focused.
Experience & Qualifications
We’re open to different backgrounds and career paths. You might bring:
- A degree in Engineering or equivalent practical experience.
- Project management certification (e.g. APM PMQ) or equivalent experience.
- Proven delivery of complex programmes or projects.
- Understanding of commercial, supply chain or procurement activities.
- Experience managing stakeholders in complex environments.
If you meet around 75% of the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you—there’s no such thing as a perfect candidate.
Why Join Us
- 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.
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.
Senior Project Manager Plant Design in Derby employer: Rolls-Royce SMR Limited
At Rolls-Royce SMR, we are committed to pioneering clean energy solutions while fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. Our Manchester/Warrington or Derby locations offer flexible working options, competitive salaries, and a strong focus on employee growth, ensuring that you can thrive in your career while contributing to innovative projects in the nuclear power sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Manager Plant Design in Derby
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Rolls-Royce SMR on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the Temelin Plant Design programme. Understand the challenges they face and think about how your experience can help solve them. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the right fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your storytelling skills! Be ready to share specific examples of your project management successes, especially in complex environments. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your leadership capabilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Rolls-Royce SMR.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Project Manager Plant Design in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your project management expertise and experience in complex engineering projects. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:In your application, emphasise your ability to lead teams and manage stakeholders effectively. We’re looking for someone who can create clarity and motivate others, so share examples of how you've done this in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your experiences and achievements, as we appreciate a well-structured application that’s easy to read.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application 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 our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rolls-Royce SMR Limited
✨Know Your Project Management Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your project management expertise, especially in areas like planning, scheduling, and risk management. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully delivered complex projects, as this will show your capability to handle the demands of the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Industry
Since this role involves working in regulated environments like nuclear energy, it’s crucial to understand the industry standards and regulations. Research Rolls-Royce SMR's mission and recent projects to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm for their work during the interview.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Questions
Expect questions about how you manage relationships with various stakeholders. Think of examples where you’ve influenced decisions or simplified complex topics for different audiences. This will highlight your communication skills and ability to build strong relationships, which are key for this role.
✨Show Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership behaviours and how you create clarity and motivate teams. Share instances where you’ve taken accountability and adapted to challenges, as this will resonate well with the collaborative environment at Rolls-Royce SMR.
