At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of generator systems for a revolutionary nuclear power plant.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce SMR, a pioneer in the nuclear industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible working, and generous holidays.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with opportunities for growth and mentorship.
- Why this job: Make a lasting impact in a cutting-edge field with a legacy of innovation.
- Qualifications: Degree in electrical engineering or related field; experience in regulated sectors preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 78750 £ per year.
We are Rolls-Royce SMR and we’re doing something that’s never been done before. We’re revolutionising an industry. That’s a once‑in‑a‑career opportunity for those excited by such a challenge. This is more than just a job; this is a legacy.
The Electrical Engineering team at Rolls‑Royce SMR is responsible for delivering the complete design of electrical systems that support safe and reliable operation of the power station. Generator systems are essential components of this portfolio, providing resilient, safety‑critical power capability and demanding high engineering standards throughout their lifecycle.
As a Lead Engineer for Generator Systems, you will provide technical expertise across the lifecycle of Standby Generator systems for the SMR nuclear power plant. This includes delivering the complete design of the Standby Generator systems — spanning system architecture, sub‑system design, equipment specification and design/selection — to realise the final verified design of the power station.
You will achieve this by working closely with engineering teams across the power station and applying a structured systems engineering approach to ensure safety, performance and regulatory compliance. You will translate high‑level requirements into generator system specifications, ensure adherence to international standards (such as IEC 63046, IEC 63332 and SSG‑34), and lead the development of verification and validation plans to demonstrate system compliance.
The role also involves supporting safety case development, contributing to procurement, operations and maintenance considerations, and providing electrical technical leadership in support of the team manager. You may also coach and mentor less experienced engineers and provide technical direction to others within the electrical capability.
We’ll Need You To:
- Work collaboratively with process and mechanical systems engineers to translate high‑level requirements into generator system specifications
- Liaise across engineering disciplines to understand functional performance capabilities and integrate them effectively
- Provide electrical technical leadership of generator systems in support of the team manager
- Assess and substantiate that generator system designs and specifications meet all requirements
- Ensure full compliance with key international standards including IEC 63046, IEC 63332 and SSG‑34
- Produce verification and validation plans and define test plans to demonstrate compliance
- Support lifecycle planning, policies and procedures relating to generator systems
- Ensure optimum generator system solutions across procurement, operational and maintenance considerations
- Contribute to the production of safety cases and engage with regulators and independent nuclear safety assessors
- Act as a responsible designer or intelligent customer depending on the task
- Deliver agreed work packages and manage contract partners where required
- Coach and mentor junior engineers and provide technical direction within the electrical discipline
Key Skills Required:
- Experience across the lifecycle of generator systems in a highly regulated sector; nuclear industry experience is desirable but not essential
- Deep knowledge and practical experience of generator system design, including specification, assessment, verification, testing, installation, commissioning and maintenance
- Expertise in one or more relevant sub‑disciplines such as generator systems, generator integration, protection systems, earthing systems or electrical distribution
- Strong understanding of designing systems functionally resilient to faults (including redundancy and diversity principles)
- Knowledge and experience of applying relevant industry standards (e.g., IEC 63046, IEC 63332) and associated regulatory frameworks
- Experience applying structured systems engineering methodologies, including MBSE
- Strong communication skills with the ability to interpret and present complex technical information, including to regulators
- Ability to provide technical oversight and act as an intelligent customer for supply chain activities
- Degree‑level qualification in electrical, electronics or a related engineering discipline (or equivalent experience)
We welcome applicants from varied levels of experience and from across regulated industries.
Location: Hybrid working with one of the following locations as your primary site: Derby, Manchester or Warrington
Salary and Package: We anticipate the salary band for this will be between £60,000–£78,750 dependent on the skills, values, and knowledge you bring. There may be some flexibility with the starting salary in exceptional cases, and, in due course, there is the potential for you to develop the role further.
Benefits include:
- 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 (+ public holidays) with ability to buy or sell up to 4 days
- Private Medical Insurance - BUPA single cover
- Life Assurance - 6x pensionable pay
- Home Office Support - £250 one‑off payment for new starters
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, and a culture that values diversity, innovation and continuous learning.
Selection Process: The closing date for this role is 23rd August 2026. The process will then consist of an introductory call with the Talent Acquisition Partner, with interviews able to start straight away.
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
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.
Lead Electrical Engineer - Generator Systems employer: Rolls-Royce SMR
As a Senior Layout and Assemblies Engineer at Rolls-Royce SMR, you will be part of a pioneering team dedicated to delivering clean, affordable energy solutions. With a strong focus on employee growth, we offer a competitive salary, performance-related bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance and generous holiday allowances. Our hybrid working model supports work-life balance, while our commitment to inclusivity ensures a welcoming environment for all backgrounds.
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We think this is how you could land Lead Electrical Engineer - Generator Systems
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We think you need these skills to ace Lead Electrical Engineer - Generator Systems
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Lead Electrical Engineer - Generator Systems, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Rolls-Royce SMR
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Rolls-Royce SMR, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Rolls-Royce SMR want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.