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- Tasks: Lead the Product Quality Strategy for groundbreaking fusion energy projects.
- Company: Join UKFE, a pioneer in sustainable fusion energy development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and a fantastic pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working options and a vibrant, inclusive culture await you.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of innovative technology with real-world impact on energy sustainability.
- Qualifications: Experience in quality management and leadership in complex engineering environments.
The predicted salary is between 73190 - 73190 £ per year.
Site Location: West Burton, Nottinghamshire
Department: UKFE - Design Authority
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 £73,190 with excellent benefits including outstanding pension. The closing date to apply for this position is the 12th May 2026. This UKFE vacancy can be based at either of our sites West Burton, Nottinghamshire.
Job Description
The Product Quality Manager is a senior leadership role within the Design Authority, accountable for defining and delivering the Product Quality Strategy for the STEP fusion programme. Reporting to the Head of Engineering Assurance, the role provides programme and regulatory confidence that products are safe, fit‑for‑purpose, certifiable, and perform as intended across the full lifecycle—from concept and design through manufacture, delivery, and operation.
STEP is a first‑of‑a‑kind, high‑consequence engineering programme, comparable in complexity and risk profile to advanced nuclear and space systems. In this environment, quality must be engineered in from the outset; opportunities to recover from poor quality post‑deployment are extremely limited.
The Product Quality Manager therefore sets the vision, strategy, and governance for achieving performance‑driven quality in the presence of technical uncertainty, novel technologies, and evolving standards. Acting as the Design Authority’s focal point for product assurance, the role ensures that the Engineering Management System (EMS), quality frameworks, and certification approaches enable safe, reliable, and high‑quality outcomes at scale.
The postholder will engage directly with regulators, notified bodies, partners, and independent assurance organisations to build confidence in STEP’s technical evidence base and delivery approach.
Product Quality Manager employer: UK Atomic Energy Authority
Contact Detail:
UK Atomic Energy Authority Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Quality Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the fusion energy sector, especially those connected to UKFE. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the STEP programme and its challenges. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in product quality management, especially in high-consequence engineering. Show us you’re not just a fit for the role, but that you’re genuinely passionate about making a difference in sustainable energy.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows us you’re keen on the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be perfect for the Product Quality Manager position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and benefits there. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to join a vibrant culture committed to equality and inclusivity!
We think you need these skills to ace Product Quality Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Product Quality Manager role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that align with the job description, especially in quality assurance and engineering management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your passion for fusion energy and how your background can contribute to our mission at STEP Fusion UK.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've improved quality processes or led successful projects in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of it!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Atomic Energy Authority
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the STEP fusion programme and its significance in sustainable energy. Brush up on the technical aspects of product quality management, especially in high-consequence engineering environments. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also passionate about the mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Product Quality Manager, you'll be leading teams and strategies. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led projects or initiatives, particularly in complex environments. Highlight how you’ve navigated challenges and ensured quality outcomes.
✨Engage with Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about the current challenges the team faces in quality assurance or how they envision the evolution of the Engineering Management System. This demonstrates your proactive mindset and genuine interest in contributing to their goals.
✨Cultural Fit Matters
Familiarise yourself with UKFE's culture and values, especially their commitment to equality and inclusivity. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to a vibrant workplace culture. This can set you apart as a candidate who fits well within their team.