Model-Based Systems Engineering Lead

Company Description

STEP Fusion UK Fusion Energy (UKFE) Ltd, a subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), is at the forefront of developing fusion sustainable energy. Through the design and delivery of the STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) programme, we aim to build a prototype fusion plant, targeting first operations around 2040. UKFE will lead delivery, collaborating with industrial partners and building a fusion supply chain with an estimated global sector value of £7tn per year. Onsite working is expected for 3 days each week; however, we actively support requests for Flexible Working.

As an employee of UKFE 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.
• Wide range of career development opportunities.
• A vibrant culture committed to equality and being fully inclusive.

The salary for this role is £64,115 plus excellent benefits including outstanding pension. This role includes a non‑contractual and non‑pensionable specialist allowance of £7,700 in addition to the salary specified. The closing date to apply for this position is the 3rd June 2026. This UKFE vacancy will be based at our site in West Burton, Nottinghamshire.

Job Description

We are seeking a Lead MBSE Engineer to take ownership of the Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) strategy for a first-of-a-kind commercial fusion power plant programme. This is a unique opportunity to act as the technical authority for MBSE capability, working across the organisation and its partners to deliver the landmark STEP programme.

The Role

As the MBSE lead, you will define and deliver a transformational MBSE capability, enabling the successful execution of one of the most ambitious engineering programmes in the world. Working closely with the Systems Engineering Manager and diverse technical teams, you will articulate a clear MBSE vision, develop a pragmatic implementation roadmap, and champion best practice across the organisation. You’ll play a key role in embedding MBSE into delivery, ensuring it drives real value while balancing programme constraints and complexity.

Key Responsibilities

• Define the MBSE Capability Future State
• Develop and communicate a clear MBSE vision and implementation strategy
• Own MBSE capability definition across people, process, and tools
• Define competency frameworks, role profiles, and training pathways
• Establish requirements for MBSE toolchains and process development
• Implement & Continuously Improve
• Own and maintain the MBSE framework, including reusable models and templates
• Define lifecycle expectations and “what good looks like” for MBSE
• Support and influence delivery teams to embed MBSE into their plans
• Drive continuous improvement through lessons learned
• Champion MBSE Across the Organisation
• Act as the authoritative voice on MBSE methods and approaches
• Coach and mentor engineers in MBSE practices
• Represent the organisation in external forums and industry bodies
• Build and sustain communities of practice
• Assure MBSE Capability
• Define and govern MBSE policy, standards, and conventions
• Approve deviations and ensure compliance
• Establish model quality criteria (traceability, completeness, usability)
• Approve models for decision-making and programme assurance
• Leadership & Culture
• E embody a strong leadership mindset and organisational values
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing environment
• Lead with integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards
• Support effective decision-making across complex challenges

Qualifications

Essential:

• A relevant degree in a recognised STEM subject
• Professional registration as Chartered Engineer with recognised engineering institution (e.g. IfSE IET, IMechE etc.)
• Experience of defining and embedding new capabilities in organisations
• Demonstrable expertise in the development and use of MBSE tools, languages, and frameworks
• Experience in defining and enforcing policies, standards and conventions
• Significant knowledge of Systems Engineering and the ability to apply it pragmatically
• Exemplary communicator with strong evidence of the ability to influence diverse stakeholders

Beneficial:

• Member of Institute for Systems Engineering (MIfSE)
• Systems Engineering Professional accreditation (ASEP/CSEP) with the International Council of Systems Engineering
• OMG-Certified Systems Modeling Language Professional certification e.g. SysML Model Builder Fundamental/Intermediate/Advanced
• Experience in using Dassault Systemes 3DS tools, specifically Catia Magic and 3DX

We welcome applications from under-represented groups, particularly women in STEM and individuals from British black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities. Our Executive team, supported by our 'Equality, Diversity and Inclusion' (EDI) Partner and Inclusion Ambassadors, actively promotes EDI and takes steps to increase diversity within our organisation. We reinforce best practices in recruitment and selection and evaluate approaches to remove barriers to success.

This role requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including the Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks for criminal convictions. Whilst not required at this time, there is a possibility of an SC Clearance being required in the future. If a candidate already holds an SC clearance, that clearance can be transferred to UKFE.

Please note that vacancies are generally advertised for 4 weeks but may close earlier if we receive a large number of applications. We may consider your application for future positions or similar positions within the organisation.