Construction Programme Manager

Rolls-Royce SMR Ltd; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 71,000 - 93,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefit allowance

Bonus opportunity

Pension life assurance

Income protection

Holidays

Joiner payment

Job summary

Rolls-Royce SMR Ltd is recruiting a Construction Programme Manager in a hybrid role based from Derby, Manchester or Warrington. You will lead construction readiness activities, coordinating across engineering, safety, and logistics to deliver a modular, repeatable build for a global reactor programme.

You will manage large-scale projects, ensure safety and quality compliance, and work with clients and suppliers to meet milestones and budget targets in a matrix organisation.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in managing large construction projects (civil, nuclear, oil & gas)
• Experience in cost estimation and budgeting for complex programmes
• Knowledge of safety standards, quality control, and regulatory compliance in UK/Europe
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams in a matrix organisation
• Experience managing multiple supplier arrangements and client relationships

Responsibilities

• Oversee construction readiness from planning to handover.
• Coordinate with engineering, safety, and logistics for constructability.
• Develop cost estimates and codify a modular build approach across geographies.
• Ensure compliance with CDM, H&S, and contract management standards.
• Collaborate with clients, contractors, and internal teams to ensure delivery within milestones.
• Manage risk, resolve disputes, and drive timely completion.

Skills

Project management

Client relationship

Budgeting

Risk management

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Problem-solving

Education

Construction Management degree

Civil Engineering degree

Job description

## Construction Programme ManagerApplylocations: Derby, UKtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted Todaytime left to apply: End Date: August 21, 2026 (13 days left to apply)job requisition id: JR101978**Role:** **Construction Programme Manager****Location: Hybrid, based from one of our offices in Derby, Manchester or Warrington****About Us**Rolls‐Royce SMR is here to transform how nuclear energy is delivered—cleaner, faster and at global scale. Our teams are developing one of the world’s most advanced small modular reactors, helping secure affordable, low‐carbon energy for generations to come. We’re revolutionising an industry. That’s a once-in-a-career opportunity for those excited by such a challenge. This is more than just a job; this is a legacy.We are now recruiting for the exciting role of Programme Managers (Construction) (x3) to be involved in developing a global supply chain and creating opportunities for the wider industry**Role Summary**The new Programme Managers (Construction) will assist the Head of Construction Readiness in the Operations and Construction Readiness team in developing strategies for single, multiple and fleet deployment for all construction elements of the power plant**What we’ll need you to do*** Reporting to the Deputy Head of Construction Readiness within the Supply Chain and Operations Directorate, this role is accountable for the construction readiness of RR SMR.* Construction intelligent customer/client role definition and development of capability, developing repeatable constructability of power plant design in collaboration with engineering, site safety, construction site launch and mobilisation (including on site factory, off site construction product manufacture and logistics), construction management IT definition and implementation, site quality, regulatory and legal compliance (including CDM) and approach to testing and commissioning of infrastructure.* Ensure high-quality delivery, cost efficiency, and timely completion of the RR SMR in conjunction with our Programme Directors.* Oversee all aspects of construction management, from initial planning through to final handover.* Collaborate closely with clients, contractors, architects, design and internal teams to deliver RR SMR while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.* Oversee all aspects of construction planning and execution, from design to final delivery.* Determine the requirements for civils supply chain partners and participate in procurement.* Work collaboratively to ensure accurate cost estimation and codify the construction management approach for a repeatable, standardised, modular build in multiple geographies.* Support in country delivery, monitor progress and identify potential risks related to project timelines, costs, and quality, and develop mitigation strategies in conjunction with the Programme Manager.* Resolve any issues or disputes that arise with contractors, or internal teams in a timely and effective manner.**What we’re looking for**The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing construction projects (ie civils, oil and gas, nuclear, overseas) and the ability to collaborate with teams toward successful project outcomes. You will be results-oriented with a strong focus on achieving project milestones, cost efficiency and outcome predictability.* A good understanding of construction processes, tools and digital and client relationship management.* Knowledge of construction safety standards, quality control, and regulatory compliance.* This is a management role requiring good communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills* Experience of complex programmes with multiple supplier arrangement and client relationship management requirements* Strong collaboration and team skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams and work in a matrix organisation.* Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related professional qualification or accreditation (RICS, ICE or similar).* Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in construction project management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.* Proven experience in managing large-scale, complex construction projects with a focus on client satisfaction and delivery would be advantageous.* It would also be advantageous but not essential if this was civils, nuclear, oil and gas, and/or European construction focused.* Strong understanding of construction processes, project budgeting, contract management, H&S, and construction law in both the UK and/or Europe.* Continuous Professional Development.**Location & Ways of Working**This role can be based in Derby, Manchester or Warrington, with flexibility to work between home and the office depending on business needs. There may be some international travel required on an adhoc basis.**What’s in It for You**You’ll receive a salary between £71,000 - £93,200, a £5,000 annual benefit allowance, 17% bonus opportunity, 6x pensionable life assurance, 50% income protection, 28 days holiday plus bank holidays, and a £250 new joiner payment.**Selection Process**Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a competency‐based interview and may be asked to provide evidence of document management capability. This role requires BPSS checks as part of our onboarding process.**Inclusion & Accessibility**We’re committed to building a diverse, inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued. If you meet around 75% of the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you. We’re happy to discuss reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and offer flexible or part‐time working where possible.**Pay Range:**£71,000.00-£93,187.50**Why Join Us?**You’ll be joining a forward-thinking organisation that values transparency, fairness, and innovation. We offer:• A flexible, inclusive, and supportive working environment. • Opportunities for career growth in a rapidly scaling business. • A culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning.We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Inclusivity is important to us, and as a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to fair, supportive, and continually improving recruitment practices that ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.Confidence can sometimes hold us back from applying for a job. But we'll let you in on a secret: there's no such thing as a 'perfect' candidate. If you feel you meet 75% of the requirements for this role, we would love to hear from you.Also, if you are considering a career move or a sector-jump, please get in touch – we welcome applications from people with transferable skills.**Our Application Process**Due to the safety regulations within the nuclear industry, applicants will be required to participate in additional screening. These are:• Obtaining Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance • Satisfactory completion of a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check • Satisfactory completion of a basic financial probity check