At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead architectural vision for innovative Small Modular Reactor designs and coordinate multi-disciplinary teams.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce SMR, a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous holiday, and bespoke benefits package.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for career growth and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of clean energy and drive innovation.
- Qualifications: Chartered Architect or Engineer with experience in complex infrastructure design.
The predicted salary is between 110400 - 130000 £ per year.
Locations: Hybrid working with one of the following locations as primary: Derby, Warrington or Manchester.
The Business
Our mission is to deliver clean, affordable energy for all. Our Small Modular Reactor (SMR) provides a British solution to a global energy challenge. We are positioned to become a world leader in SMRs and the UK’s premier green export technology, redefining how sustainable power is delivered.
The Team
The Integration Engineering team shapes the vision, coherence, and delivery of the entire RR SMR power station design. We drive innovation across disciplines, ensuring every facility and structure integrates seamlessly to meet demanding regulatory, environmental, and client expectations across global applications.
Summary
We are looking for a Head of Vision & Architecture to support our Chief Integration Engineer and lead the architectural vision for our generic and site‐specific SMR designs. Leading a matrixed team of 30+, this role defines and communicates the architectural direction that underpins the success of the RR SMR programme.
We’ll need you to:
- Direct architectural and visionary design coordination across all RR SMR buildings and facilities.
- Integrate multi‐disciplinary design inputs and oversee the production of models, presentations, and illustrative materials.
- Guide engineering deliverables, ensuring alignment with programme milestones, risks, and performance attributes.
- Coordinate requirements across global regions and support business development activities.
This is a pivotal, high‐impact leadership role, and you’ll bring strategic clarity, collaborative energy, and first‐class architectural leadership across a complex engineering programme.
Essential Skills/Qualifications
- Chartered Architect (ARB/RIBA) or Chartered Engineer, or equivalent technical professional standing.
- Experience leading architectural vision, managing diverse multi‐disciplinary teams, and delivering complex, highly regulated infrastructure.
- Deep knowledge of nuclear or major infrastructure design integration, master‐planning, and coordination with regulatory, planning, and environmental bodies.
Location
We offer hybrid working, with regular weekly attendance expected at one of our offices: Manchester, Warrington, or Derby. Some travel to partners and sites may be required.
Salary and Package
- Salary of between £110,400 to £130,000
- Bonus - Performance related target opportunity 30%
- Benefits Allowance – £8,500 per annum, enabling you to create a bespoke package
- Pension - 12% employer and 6% employee contributions.
- Holidays - 28 days holiday (+ public holidays) and the ability to buy or sell up to 4 days.
- Private Medical Insurance - BUPA single cover health care
- Life Assurance - 6x pensionable pay
- £250 - One-off payment for new starters for home office purchases
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 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
What we offer
At Rolls-Royce SMR, our reward offering is focused on recognising you for your efforts and motivate you to continue achieving. Our rewards and benefits scheme are designed for employees to have complete control. By providing complete autonomy, you can focus on what’s important to you. Whether it’s investments, insurances or wellbeing, it’s in your hands.
Work is an activity, not a place. We understand due to commitments and lifestyle; the world of work has evolved beyond the 9 - 5. Whether its varied hours or hybrid working, our flexible working arrangements make it possible for employees to achieve a true work life balance.
Your career journey
At Rolls-Royce SMR, we don’t just want you to contribute, we want you to grow. We have open dialogue with our employees to understand the ambitions for their career and set plans to achieve them. Whether it’s helping you obtain formal qualifications or pairing you with a mentor, Rolls-Royce SMR will provide you with a fulfilling career.
Join our talent community
We’re always on the lookout for the best talent. If there isn’t a role which is suitable for you now, you can still connect with us.
Head of Vision and Architecture employer: Rolls Royce SMR Ltd.
Rolls-Royce SMR is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and inclusivity, offering a flexible and supportive work environment across its hybrid locations in Derby, Warrington, and Manchester. With a strong focus on employee growth, the company provides unique opportunities for career advancement and personal development, ensuring that every team member can thrive while contributing to a transformative mission in sustainable energy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Vision and Architecture
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their vision and how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it relates to the role of Head of Vision & Architecture. Keep it concise but impactful, highlighting your leadership skills and architectural expertise.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t hesitate to apply through our website! Even if you think you don’t meet every single requirement, if you feel you tick off about 75% of them, we want to hear from you. Your unique background could be just what we need!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Vision and Architecture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Vision & Architecture. We want to see how your skills can contribute to our mission of delivering clean, affordable energy.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:This role is all about leading a diverse team, so don’t hold back on sharing examples of your leadership experience. We’re keen to know how you’ve successfully managed multi-disciplinary teams in the past.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and get straight to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read and understand.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rolls Royce SMR Ltd.
✨Know Your Vision
As the Head of Vision & Architecture, you'll need to articulate a clear architectural vision. Prepare to discuss your past experiences in leading architectural projects and how they align with the company's mission of delivering clean, affordable energy. Be ready to share specific examples that showcase your strategic thinking and innovative approach.
✨Understand the Regulatory Landscape
Given the highly regulated nature of the nuclear industry, it's crucial to demonstrate your knowledge of regulatory requirements. Brush up on relevant regulations and be prepared to discuss how you've navigated these in previous roles. This will show your potential employer that you can effectively manage compliance while driving architectural innovation.
✨Showcase Team Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a matrixed team of over 30 professionals, so highlight your experience in managing diverse teams. Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you foster collaboration across disciplines. Share examples of how you've successfully integrated multi-disciplinary inputs in past projects to achieve common goals.
✨Align with Company Culture
Rolls-Royce SMR values inclusivity and innovation, so make sure to convey your alignment with these principles. Research the company culture and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to a supportive and diverse working environment. Sharing personal anecdotes that reflect your commitment to these values can help you stand out.
