Area Lead Mechanical

Progressive Global Energy; Warrington; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy company in the UK is seeking an experienced Area Lead to oversee critical workstreams in a pioneering nuclear energy initiative. The role involves leading a multidisciplinary team, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and engaging stakeholders. Candidates should have a degree in engineering and strong leadership skills. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Benefits

Career progression opportunities

Qualifications

• Degree in relevant engineering discipline.
• Experience in mechanical design and analysis.
• Knowledge of nuclear fuel cycle or fuel reprocessing.

Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Oversee design and implementation of fuel processes.
• Engage with stakeholders and external partners.
• Manage project schedules, costs, and risks.

Skills

Leadership

Mechanical design and analysis

Nuclear fuel cycle knowledge

Team management

Education

Degree in Mechanical, Nuclear or Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Area Lead to oversee critical workstreams within a pioneering initiative aimed at converting uranium recovered from spent nuclear fuel into new fuel for future reactors. This role is integral to delivering a project that enhances national energy independence and fuel security.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight – Lead a multidisciplinary engineering team across mechanical, nuclear, and chemical domains.

Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and quality standards.

Technical Delivery – Oversee design, development, and implementation of processes for recovered uranium fuel utilisation.

Provide technical guidance on mechanical systems, nuclear fuel cycle, and chemical processing.

Stakeholder Engagement – Liaise with internal teams, regulators, and external partners.

Represent the organisation in technical forums and client meetings.

Project Management – Drive schedule adherence, cost control, and risk management.

Report progress to senior leadership and ensure alignment with strategic objectives.

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Nuclear Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Proven experience in mechanical design and analysis (stress, fatigue, fracture mechanics).
• Experience with pressure vessel and piping systems in regulated environments.
• Knowledge of nuclear fuel cycle or fuel reprocessing technologies.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Knowledge of fuel reprocessing operations or similar facilities is highly desirable.

Desirable Skills

• Chartered Engineer status.
• Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
• High-integrity materials for nuclear environments.
• Welding, fabrication, and structural integrity for safety‑critical components.
• Experience in hazard analysis, safety case development, and licensing processes.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a groundbreaking project shaping the future of nuclear energy.
• Work with industry‑leading experts in a collaborative environment.
• Competitive salary, benefits, and opportunities for career progression.