At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of safety systems to protect personnel from hazards.
- Company: Join a world-leading science facility at Rutherford Appleton Laboratory.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, pension scheme, and learning opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in safety engineering while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or relevant experience in safety system development.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 52000 € per year.
Location: Science and Technology Facilities Council, Rutherford Appleton Laboratory Harwell, Oxfordshire
Closing date: 7th June 2026
As one of the world’s leading science facilities, the ISIS Neutron and Muon source provides a service for academic researchers and industrial users to probe the atomic and molecular structure of some of the most advanced materials on the planet. The facility is underpinned by a team of highly skilled and dedicated technical staff, designing, delivering and maintaining the bespoke and innovative equipment used by the facility.
Within the ISIS Design Division, the Functional Safety team is responsible for the design, analysis and delivery of specific interlock systems protecting personnel against ISIS facility hazards, including ionising radiation, machinery, high voltage and lasers. This involves the application of a broad range of engineering expertise including both relay based and programmable technologies, in collaboration with mechanical, electrical, and project design and operational teams.
Key Duties- Lead the design and delivery of bespoke, optimised safety interlock systems protecting personnel from hazards including ionising radiation, machinery, high voltage systems, and lasers.
- Support risk assessments of existing equipment and systems, identifying improvements and ensuring alignment with functional safety standards.
- Deliver modifications to operational systems as well as clean sheet designs that meet customer specifications and comply with internal and international published standards.
- Lead project and design review meetings in line with the facility Interlock Management Plan, ensuring full engagement and buy-in from all partners throughout the design process.
- Apply structured project management methodologies across the complete engineering lifecycle — concept, detailed design, procurement, manufacture, installation, commissioning, operation and eventual decommissioning.
- Communicate effectively with colleagues at all levels to ensure system designs fulfil both customer expectations and safety requirements.
- Provide leadership and line management to technical staff, contributing to team development and to the wider processes for system design and delivery.
- Bring a strong engineering background with hands-on experience in safety control system implementation and participation across the functional safety lifecycle within process, machinery or other high hazard sectors.
The below criteria will be assessed via Shortlisting, Interview or both criteria.
- Degree or HND in a relevant engineering field, or substantial relevant experience in safety system development, electrical design and safety project management.
- Demonstrable formal functional safety qualifications and proficiency with electrical CAD tools (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, EPLAN).
- Demonstrable experience addressing complex functional safety challenges, including SIL determination, development of Safety Requirements Specifications (SRS) and engineering of safety related systems.
- Proven track record of delivering fit-for-purpose functional safety systems from concept through to commissioning, ensuring compliance with relevant standards and operational requirements.
- Significant experience leading the design and development of PLC-based (using ladder logic and/or function block) and relay-based safety interlock systems compliant with IEC 62061 or equivalent standards.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly and confidently with personnel at all organisational levels, and to work in a structured, methodical and organised manner.
- Experience managing and mentoring technical engineers, supporting professional development and contributing to the wider capability of the team.
- 30 days holiday (in addition to 10.5 bank holidays and privilege days).
- An excellent defined average salary pension scheme.
- Easy access to public transport / Free parking.
- Learning and development opportunities.
Link to more benefits: https://stfccareers.co.uk/rewards-and-benefits/
Senior Functional Safety Engineer in Harwell employer: STFC
At the Science and Technology Facilities Council, located at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in Harwell, Oxfordshire, we pride ourselves on being a leading employer in the scientific community. Our commitment to employee growth is reflected in our extensive learning and development opportunities, alongside a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. With competitive benefits such as 30 days of holiday, a robust pension scheme, and easy access to public transport, we offer a rewarding environment for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in functional safety engineering.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Functional Safety Engineer in Harwell
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the field of functional safety, especially those who work at places like the Science and Technology Facilities Council. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that job descriptions just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and safety standards. Be ready to discuss your hands-on experience with safety control systems and how you've tackled complex challenges in the past. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! If you've managed or mentored engineers before, make sure to highlight this in conversations. Employers love candidates who can lead teams and contribute to their development.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in functional safety.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Functional Safety Engineer in Harwell
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Functional Safety Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in safety system development and project management, and don’t forget to mention any formal functional safety qualifications you have!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about functional safety and how your skills align with the key duties mentioned in the job description. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t shy away from showcasing your technical skills, especially with electrical CAD tools and PLC-based systems. Mention specific projects where you've tackled complex functional safety challenges to demonstrate your expertise.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, so don’t miss out on this opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at STFC
✨Know Your Safety Standards
Make sure you brush up on the relevant safety standards like IEC 62061. Being able to discuss how you've applied these standards in your previous roles will show that you're not just familiar with them, but that you can implement them effectively.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience with electrical CAD tools like AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN. Bring examples of projects where you’ve designed safety interlock systems, and be ready to explain your thought process and the challenges you faced.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Since this role involves leading teams, think of specific instances where you've managed or mentored technical staff. Share how you contributed to their development and how you ensured project success through effective communication and collaboration.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in complex functional safety challenges. Prepare to discuss how you would approach risk assessments or modifications to existing systems, highlighting your structured project management methodologies.
