Location: Hybrid – Derby, Warrington or Manchester
Senior Reactor System Design Engineer
Company: Rolls‑Royce SMR
We are revolutionising clean energy through scalable, affordable nuclear power. This role is part of the Reactor Plant and Systems team, a multidisciplinary engineering function responsible for designing the systems that underpin the Reactor Island.
Role Overview
As a Senior Engineer you will lead the development of complex process and mechanical system designs across the Reactor Island, translating high‑level requirements into robust, evidence‑based solutions that meet regulatory and safety expectations.
Main Responsibilities
- Lead the delivery of system design packages, ensuring outputs are technically robust, aligned to programme requirements and delivered to agreed timescales.
- Develop and manage system requirements to ensure designs are clearly defined, traceable and supported by appropriate verification and evidence.
- Produce high‑quality engineering documentation including design reports, system definitions and substantiation artefacts that support safety cases and regulatory submissions.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams and external stakeholders, including regulators, to resolve technical challenges and maintain programme momentum.
- Identify and actively manage risks and opportunities within the design scope, ensuring effective mitigation and continuous improvement.
- Apply design governance, configuration control and assurance processes to maintain consistency, quality and compliance.
- Provide technical leadership and guidance to engineers, supporting capability growth and driving a high‑performance team environment.
What You’ll Bring
- Proven experience delivering complex system design work within nuclear or another highly regulated or safety‑critical industry.
- A degree in an engineering or relevant technical discipline, or equivalent experience gained through industry delivery.
- Strong understanding of systems engineering principles, including requirements management, integration and structured design approaches.
- Practical experience in mechanical or process system design (e.g. fluid systems, HVAC, chemical or plant‑based systems).
- Confidence in producing and reviewing detailed technical documentation such as P&IDs, calculations and design substantiation reports.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to engage and build credibility across multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
- A collaborative and proactive approach, with the ability to lead technical work, solve problems and support the development of others.
Location
This role is offered on a hybrid basis, with base location in Derby, Warrington or Manchester. Regular on‑site collaboration is expected, balanced with flexibility where possible.
Salary & Benefits
- Salary: £50,650.00 – £66,500.00 DOE
- Bonus: Performance related target opportunity 12.5%
- Benefits allowance: £2,200 per annum for a bespoke package
- Pension: 12% employer and 6% employee contributions
- Holidays: 28 days holiday (+ public holidays) with the ability to buy or sell up to 4 days
- Private medical insurance – BUPA single cover
- Life assurance – 6x pensionable pay; £250 one‑off payment for new starters for home office purchases
Equal Opportunities
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Inclusivity is central to our culture, and we are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.
