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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and model innovative thermodynamic cycles for power generation and gas turbines.
- Company: Join Rolls-Royce, a leader in innovation and critical power solutions for over a century.
- Benefits: Enjoy a collaborative environment, opportunities for growth, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team tackling the energy transition and making a real impact on sustainability.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics with strong thermodynamics and modelling skills required.
- Other info: Remote work options available; apply by 3rd September 2025.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
Novel Cycles Engineer
Derby – Moor Lane
Rolls-Royce Future Technology wishes to recruit a Novel Cycles Engineer with skills in thermodynamic cycles design and performance modelling with application to the critical assessment of new and novel power generation and gas turbine cycles. Experience with modelling unconventional advanced cycles is essential including the proficient use of appropriate simulation, design and integration tools.
In this role, you will be part of a dynamic, agile and creative team, directly reporting to the Chief of Emerging Technologies and working closely with specialists across Future Technologies and Future Programmes. This is an exciting role focused on the assessment of new and emerging disruptive technologies and system level concepts as we navigate Rolls-Royce\’s future through the energy transition agenda and journey to Net Zero. The Emerging Technologies team run the companies Horizon Scanning process where new disruptive technology threats and opportunities need careful scientific appraisal.
You will help provide underpinning scientific understanding of cycle-level benefits introduced by new system architectures and novel working fluids and technologies, and how far state-of-the-art technology can be pushed. The output of your work will supplement work done by Future Platforms, within Future Technology, to assess system level economics and business case, which together help inform future product strategy in our journey to Net Zero.
Day-to-day responsibilities include process modelling and simulation, leading benchmarking studies to inform and help steer company strategy and presenting to senior stakeholders.
Why Rolls-Royce?
Rolls-Royce is one of the most enduring and iconic brands in the world and has been at the forefront of innovation for over a century. We design, build and service systems that provide critical power to customers where safety and reliability are paramount.
We are proud to be a force for progress, powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere.
We want to ensure that the excellence and ingenuity that has shaped our history continues into our future and we need people like you to come and join us on this journey.
Qualifications:
- A relevant postgraduate research degree is highly desirable. As a minimum a degree in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or other related technical discipline is required with an in-depth knowledge and understanding of thermodynamics.
- Cycles modelling skills are essential including proficient use of tools such as Numerical Propulsion System Simulation (NPSS)
- Experience of modelling chemical processes is desirable.
- We are seeking candidates who can demonstrate a breadth of knowledge and interest in a range of different sectors and technologies.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills are a must with a flair for presenting complex subjects to diverse audiences.
- We are looking for someone who can deal with ambiguity and be self-directed, in addition to passion and genuine curiosity about environmental sustainability and technology and how we can make a difference to our world.
- We are a small but diverse team so we are looking for people who can operate in a collaborative and open environment.
We are an equal opportunities employer. We\’re committed to developing a diverse workforce and an inclusive working environment. We believe that people from different backgrounds and cultures give us different perspectives which are crucial to innovation and problem solving. We believe the more diverse perspectives we have, the more successful we\’ll be. By building a culture of caring and belonging, we give everyone who works here the opportunity to realise their full potential.
Closing date:
20th February 2026
As part of our selection process, candidates in certain locations may be asked to complete an online assessment, which can include cognitive and behavioural aptitude testing relevant to the role. If required, full instructions for the next steps will be provided.
Job Category
Validation and Verification
Posting Date
06 Feb 2026; 00:02
Posting End Date
PandoLogic. Keywords: Thermodynamic Engineer, Location: Derby, ENG – DE23 8NX
Novel Cycles Engineer employer: Rolls Royce
Contact Detail:
Rolls Royce Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Novel Cycles Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in thermodynamic cycles and power generation technologies. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of thermodynamics and gas turbine technology. Attend industry conferences or webinars to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends, which can give you an edge in discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with simulation and design tools like NPSS. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've used these tools in past projects, as this will demonstrate your practical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for environmental sustainability and innovation in your conversations. Rolls-Royce values candidates who are genuinely interested in making a difference, so be prepared to discuss how your work aligns with their Net Zero goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Novel Cycles Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Novel Cycles Engineer position. Familiarise yourself with thermodynamic cycles design and performance modelling, as well as the specific tools mentioned in the job description.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in thermodynamics and cycles modelling. Include specific examples of projects or roles where you've used simulation and design tools, particularly those related to unconventional advanced cycles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for environmental sustainability and technology. Mention how your skills align with Rolls-Royce's mission and the importance of innovation in the energy transition agenda.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since good interpersonal and communication skills are essential for this role, consider including examples in your application that demonstrate your ability to present complex subjects clearly to diverse audiences. This could be through previous presentations, reports, or collaborative projects.
How to prepare for a job interview at Rolls Royce
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with thermodynamic cycles design and performance modelling. Highlight specific projects where you've used simulation tools like NPSS, and be ready to explain the outcomes and learnings from those experiences.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect questions that assess your ability to deal with ambiguity and complex challenges. Share examples of how you've approached difficult problems in past roles, particularly in relation to advanced cycle modelling or unconventional technologies.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since good interpersonal skills are crucial, practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. Be ready to present your ideas clearly and confidently, as you may need to engage with diverse audiences during the interview.
✨Express Your Passion for Sustainability
Rolls-Royce is focused on the energy transition and Net Zero goals. Be sure to convey your genuine interest in environmental sustainability and how it relates to technology. Discuss any relevant initiatives or projects you've been involved in that align with these values.
