Reactor System Design Engineer

Rolls‑Royce SMR is pioneering a new generation of clean, affordable nuclear energy through its Small Modular Reactor technology. As the UK’s preferred SMR vendor, Rolls‑Royce SMR drives innovation to support global net-zero goals, energy security, and industrial decarbonisation. Joining the team means working at the forefront of advanced engineering, shaping sustainable energy solutions with real-world impact.

We are looking for Reactor System Design Engineers. As we advance through detailed design and licensing, we’re expanding our Reactor Plant and Systems team with talented Reactor System Design Engineers at all levels of experience. This is your chance to work on cutting-edge technology that will power a sustainable future.

Our department is at the heart of innovation, designing and developing the mechanical, fluid, and safety systems that make up the Reactor Island. From reactor core and coolant systems to passive safety, hazard protection, HVAC, and fuel handling, you’ll play a vital role in creating solutions that meet the highest standards of safety, security, and environmental responsibility.

You Will Contribute To:

• Transforming concepts into reality through detailed system design and robust safety justifications.
• Driving performance excellence with evidence-based assessments and through-life operating principles.
• Collaborating across disciplines to solve complex technical challenges and deliver world-class engineering.

Key Role Criteria:

• Nuclear Industry Knowledge: Understanding of nuclear safety principles (E3S, ALARP, BAT). Familiarity with nuclear plant operations and Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR) design.
• Systems Engineering Expertise: Experience with systems engineering tools (functional modelling, optioneering). Skilled in requirements development and management (REDV framework). Ability to manage functional interfaces.
• Process/Mechanical Systems Design: Knowledge of reactor core, steam raising plant, inventory management, HVAC, waste processing, and fuel handling systems. Chemical processing and auxiliary systems (including gases, water).
• System Design Development: Proficiency in fluid systems design (equipment sizing, specification). Ability to develop design requirements, operating principles, and technical documentation (P&IDs, design reports).

The aim of this role is to design and develop critical reactor systems that form the backbone of Rolls-Royce SMR technology, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation. Your impact on the business will be profound, driving technological innovation, guaranteeing adherence to stringent safety and environmental standards, and building the engineering capability needed to deliver clean, affordable energy to the world.

What’s In It For You:

Salary will be in the region of £40,000–£52,500, dependent on skills, values, and knowledge brought to the role.

We Also Offer Excellent Benefits:

• Bonus – Performance-related bonus of up to 12.5%
• Benefits Allowance – £2,200 to create a bespoke package
• Pension – 12% employer and 6% employee contributions
• Holidays – 28 days plus 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

You’ll join a forward-thinking organisation that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning, with opportunities for career growth in a rapidly scaling business.

Location: We offer a flexible hybrid working model, with offices located in Manchester, Derby, and Warrington. The frequency of office attendance will be discussed and agreed during the interview process.

Selection Process: The process includes an introductory call with our Talent Acquisition Partner, followed by two interview stages. Due to nuclear industry regulations, additional screening will apply (BPSS, DBS, financial probity).

Why Join Us?

• 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. 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