Lead Environmental Engineer

The UK Government has established UK Industrial Fusion Solutions (UKIFS) Ltd, a subsidiary of UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), to lead the charge in delivering fusion energy through design and delivery of the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) prototype fusion plant. UKIFS is establishing itself, setting up the company, attracting talent, engaging with industry, developing a supply chain, and planning and constructing of the STEP prototype. Fusion energy, crucial for combating climate change and ensuring energy independence, is expected to be commercially viable by mid-century. The UK, led by UKIFS, aims for a prototype fusion plant, targeting first operations around 2040.

As an employee of UKIFS, you will benefit from:

• Outstanding defined benefit pension scheme.
• Corporate bonus scheme up to 7% and a relocation allowance (if eligible).
• Flexible working options including family friendly policies.
• Employee Assistance Programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders.
• Generous annual leave allowance starting with 25 days, plus 3 days Christmas closure and 2.5 privilege days, in addition to UK bank holidays.
• A wide range of career development opportunities.
• A vibrant culture committed to being fully inclusive.

The salary for this role is £50,311 plus a Specialist Allowance which is non-contractual and non-pensionable + excellent benefits including outstanding pension. This position is to be based at West Burton, Nottinghamshire and onsite working is expected for 3 days each week.

Fusion energy offers the potential for significant quantities of low-carbon, inherently safe, abundantly fuelled, baseload energy, supporting sustainable climate action and energy independence. While the technical challenge remains high, confidence is increasing, and the rewards of realising fusion are almost incalculable. Anticipated to come online for commercial purposes in the middle of this century, fusion offers a viable means to sustainable net zero in the UK and globally, as well as to increased energy security.

What you will be doing:

Reporting to the Head of Engineering Assurance, the Lead Environmental Engineer will provide specialist support to ensure the STEP prototype plant meets all environmental, regulatory, and best-practice requirements. The role covers the assessment, modelling, and management of environmental effects across noise, air quality, watercourses, and emissions. Responsibilities include supporting Best Available Technique (BAT) assessments, delivering BAT training across project teams, maintaining the plant-wide waste and emissions inventories (radiological and non-radiological), and facilitating Environmental Impact Identification (ENVID) workshops and updates.

Accountability:

• Develop the STEP Environment Case: Lead the development of the Environment Case for the design of the STEP prototype plant, alongside the Safety Case team. Act as the Technical Expert for the environmental discipline on STEP – supporting regulatory and permitting submissions. Define the Environmental and Sustainability Strategy for programmes and communicate it to senior leadership.
• Enable Design for Environment: Ensure that environmental requirements are integrated into the engineering design. Support the development of assessments and models across noise, air quality, watercourses, and emissions.
• Lead Environmental Work Packages: Develop the environment resource strategy for programmes. Manage consultants and Agency Supplied Workers that work on environmental deliverables within these programmes.
• Embody a Leadership Mindset: Role model positive leadership behaviours aligned to the UKIFS and STEP values and behaviours. Foster a positive and inclusive team environment that aligns with our cultural values.

Qualifications:

• Degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, environmental and/or engineering qualifications preferred.
• Proven extensive experience in the environmental discipline, having worked with large programmes of similar complexity.
• Expert understanding of environmental and sustainability legislation and government standards.
• Experience embedding Best Available Techniques (BAT) and Environmental Impact Identification (ENVID) into complex engineering projects.
• A strong understanding of ISO14001 standard including experience in the certification process.
• A confident influencer both verbally and through the production of written reports.

We welcome applications from under-represented groups, particularly women in STEM and individuals from British black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities.