Job Description

Role Overview

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join a major programme developing next-generation Small Modular Reactor technology. This role offers the chance to work at the forefront of advanced nuclear engineering, contributing to one of the most innovative and high-profile clean-energy initiatives in the world. Engineers who are currently operating at Senior level and are ready to step up into a principal role will also be considered.Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and analysis of mechanical systems central to SMR performance, including pressure systems, thermal-mechanical components, and plant-wide mechanical assemblies.
• Act as Technical Authority for mechanical engineering, providing oversight, verification, and approval of design outputs.
• Ensure all work aligns with nuclear safety principles, regulatory expectations, and SMR-specific design requirements.
• Lead the development and substantiation of safety-classified mechanical systems, producing evidence to support safety case submissions.
• Conduct and review HAZOP, FMEA, reliability assessments, and stress/thermal analyses.
• Manage project delivery across multidisciplinary teams, ensuring outputs meet quality, cost, and schedule expectations.
• Engage with clients, regulators, and stakeholders, representing mechanical engineering interests in design reviews and technical discussions.
• Drive innovation in advanced nuclear mechanical systems, contributing to the evolution of SMR technology and engineering best practice.

Required Experience

• Extensive experience in nuclear mechanical engineering or other highly regulated, safety-critical industries.
• Strong understanding of safety-classified equipment, substantiation, and safety case requirements.
• Proven ability to lead engineering teams delivering complex mechanical design packages.
• Experience with pressure systems, thermal-mechanical design, and plant mechanical infrastructure.
• Familiarity with UK nuclear regulatory bodies, standards, and relevant BS/EN/ASME codes.

Desirable ExpertiseExperience in one or more of the following areas would be highly advantageous:

• Water systems - cooling circuits, heat exchangers, reactor support systems.
• Material handling - lifting, transport, and remote handling systems used in nuclear environments.
• Rotating machinery - pumps, turbines, compressors, or other high-integrity rotating equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Chartered Engineer (CEng) or working toward chartership.
• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Experience with digital engineering tools, modelling platforms, or nuclear-specific analysis software.

SummaryThis is a rare opportunity to contribute to a landmark SMR programme, working on advanced technologies that will define the next generation of clean, secure, and scalable nuclear power. Senior engineers with the ambition to step into a principal-level role are strongly encouraged to apply. xbpsjku

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