Principal Nuclear Safety Consultant

Ready to lead where nuclear safety decisions truly matter? If you are motivated by solving technically demanding problems in highly regulated environments, this is an opportunity to lead from the front. You will combine deep technical expertise with strategic influence, playing a defining role in the delivery of robust safety cases that underpin the safe operation, decommissioning and future development of nuclear facilities. This role offers the chance to shape critical decisions, mentor the next generation of specialists and contribute directly to the growth and reputation of a leading nuclear safety consultancy.

Purpose & Scope of the Role

The Principal Nuclear Safety Consultant provides technical leadership in the delivery of high quality nuclear safety case work across a diverse portfolio of projects. Operating within a safety critical and highly regulated environment, the role spans short term safety assessments through to complex, multi year programmes supporting nuclear decommissioning, energy generation and defence‑related activities. You will lead the development, assessment and review of safety cases, ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations, engineering design and operational requirements. Alongside hands on technical delivery, you will take responsibility for project governance, including planning, resourcing and financial oversight, while working closely with multi disciplinary teams, senior leaders, clients and regulators. The role also contributes to the wider success of the business through proposal development, client relationship management and the identification of new opportunities.

Your Impact in This Position

In this role, your expertise will directly influence how nuclear risks are identified, assessed and effectively managed. You will provide confidence to clients and regulators through clear technical reasoning, high quality documentation and a collaborative approach to problem solving. By supporting project teams and mentoring colleagues, you will help build technical capability across the organisation and strengthen a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Your leadership will not only ensure safe and compliant delivery today, but will also help shape future work programmes and strategic direction.

Your Toolkit for Success at Tetra Tech RPS

At Tetra Tech RPS we recruit using core capabilities— the toolkit of essential skills, experience, competencies, and responsibilities required to perform the role effectively. As we strive to find the best fit for this position, we are seeking individuals that meet a benchmark level of expertise. But we’ll let you in on a secret: there’s no such thing as the ‘perfect’ candidate. If you feel you meet 75% of the requirements for this role, we would love to hear from you.

Safety Case Delivery

You bring a strong command of nuclear safety case methodologies, enabling you to lead the development of new safety cases and the evolution of existing ones. By applying sound hazard identification and risk assessment techniques, you will demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements while ensuring safety arguments are well integrated with engineering and operational strategies. Your work will provide clarity and confidence for decision makers at every level.

Diverse Project Portfolio

This role thrives on variety. You will manage a wide range of assignments, from focused technical studies to large, complex projects delivered over several years. Success requires adaptability, resilience and the ability to maintain consistently high standards while navigating changing priorities, novel technical challenges and differing client environments.

Regulator and Client Engagement

You will act as a trusted point of contact in discussions with clients and regulators, presenting clear, defensible safety arguments and supporting efficient approval processes. You will build credibility through transparency, professionalism and a clear understanding of stakeholder priorities. Alongside technical delivery, you will contribute to business growth by nurturing existing client relationships, managing key accounts and frameworks, and identifying opportunities for new work. As Client Manager for a major account, you will oversee contractual performance, respond accurately to commercial requests and strengthen long term partnerships.

Reviewing and Writing Technical Reports

You will lead the production and assurance of high quality safety case documentation, including radiological assessments and supporting technical reports. This involves structuring complex information logically, applying sound judgement to technical detail, and communicating clearly with specialist and non‑specialist audiences alike. You will oversee peer review, delegate effectively, and ensure that all deliverables meet regulatory standards and client expectations. Your methodical approach and analytical strength will underpin reporting that regulators can trust and clients can rely on for informed decision making.

Mentoring and Line Management

As a senior technical leader, you will play a key role in developing capability across the team. You will provide guidance, review work and offer constructive feedback, fostering a culture of collaboration, learning and continuous improvement. This includes mentoring colleagues at all levels, supporting professional development through knowledge sharing and formal reviews, and, where applicable, line managing junior team members. Your leadership will help build a motivated, high performing team equipped to meet current and future challenges.

Qualifications And Experience

You will hold a degree in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline and bring substantial experience in nuclear safety case development or assessment. Chartered status with a recognised professional body is advantageous, as is a strong understanding of nuclear plant operations, regulatory frameworks and safety management principles. Ongoing professional development is actively supported to help you broaden your expertise and progress your career.

Working Environment

This is a hybrid role, with three days per week in the office. Our teams are based in Warrington and West Cumbria. You’ll enjoy a collaborative environment that values technical excellence and work‑life balance. We place a strong emphasis on employee wellbeing. The team in Warrington are based at Birchwood Park, offering a modern workspace with complimentary on‑site parking and access to a fully equipped gym. The team enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere, with regular social activities such as walking trips, five‑a‑side football, Macmillan coffee mornings and a monthly photo competition. Our West Cumbria team is based in a Georgian building on the edge of the Lake District National Park. Beyond the office, the team enjoys a vibrant social culture with regular events, outdoor challenges and scenic walks by the lakes. It’s a unique opportunity to combine a rewarding career with access to one of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes, fostering both professional growth and a healthy work‑life balance. Flexible working options are available in this role, with working patterns agreed collaboratively between employees and line managers to support individual wellbeing and optimal performance.

Rewarding Your Expertise

At Tetra Tech RPS Consulting, we aim to offer a competitive market‑rate salary aligned with the level and responsibilities of each role. Our total reward package is designed to reflect the seniority and impact of the position and includes a range of attractive benefits that support your professional growth and personal wellbeing. Submit your application today and discover what’s possible at Tetra Tech RPS Consulting.

In alignment with the Equality Act 2010, we will make reasonable adjustments to support candidates and employees requiring additional arrangements. This could include adaptations to work schedules, training approaches, or the physical workspace. Please inform us if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process or in your day‑to‑day role.

About Tetra Tech RPS

Tetra Tech RPS is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment across all areas of our organisation. We recognise that a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives contributes to a more dynamic, innovative, and supportive workplace where every individual is empowered to share their ideas and contribute meaningfully. We are dedicated to building a culture of respect and equity, where people are valued regardless of their ethnicity, gender identity, age, belief system, sexual orientation, or any other personal characteristic.