At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex engineering projects in the nuclear power sector and ensure timely delivery.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce SMR, a pioneer in clean energy innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous holiday, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Diversity and inclusivity are at our core; we welcome all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy while working in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Project management expertise and experience in engineering environments are essential.
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
- Technical & Industry Experience
- Understanding of engineering environments and project delivery lifecycle
- Experience working in regulated industries (e.g. nuclear, infrastructure, energy) is beneficial
- Communication & Stakeholder Management
- 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
Why Join Us?
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 employer: Rolls-Royce SMR
At Rolls-Royce SMR, we are dedicated to pioneering clean energy solutions and fostering a collaborative work culture that values diversity and innovation. As a Senior Project Manager in Plant Design, you will benefit from a flexible working environment, competitive salary, and opportunities for career advancement within a rapidly growing organisation committed to inclusivity and employee development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Project Manager Plant Design
✨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 brushing up on your project management skills. Be ready to discuss how you've delivered complex projects in the past, especially in regulated environments. We want to see your leadership shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your adaptability! In your conversations, highlight times when you've successfully navigated challenges or changes in project scope. This will resonate well with the collaborative nature of the role.
✨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
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 our mission at Rolls-Royce SMR!
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 don’t hold back on sharing your success stories!
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 direct communication that gets to the heart of the matter.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in our innovative team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rolls-Royce SMR
✨Know Your Project Management Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your project management expertise, especially in areas like planning, scheduling, and budgeting. Be ready to discuss specific examples of complex projects you've delivered, particularly in regulated industries like nuclear or energy.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Management Skills
Prepare to talk about how you've influenced stakeholders at various levels. Think of instances where you've simplified complex topics for better understanding and built strong relationships with both internal and external parties.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Style
Be ready to share how you create clarity and motivate teams. Discuss your approach to accountability and adaptability, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight any experiences where you've led cross-functional teams successfully.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Since this role involves working closely with engineering teams, brush up on your technical knowledge related to plant design and the project delivery lifecycle. Familiarise yourself with tools like Primavera P6 or MS Project, as these may come up during the interview.
