Mechanical System Engineer

Nuclearinst; Stogursey; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Nuclearinst is seeking a Mechanical System Engineer to own and optimise a range of mechanical systems on site at Hinkley Point A, ensuring safety, reliability and regulatory compliance in a highly controlled environment.

You will lead inspections, analyse performance data, and deliver engineering modifications as the responsible engineer, collaborating with project teams and stakeholders to safely maintain and decommission plant.

Qualifications

• Qualified mechanical engineer with HNC (or equivalent) and ideally a mechanical engineering degree.
• Experience in industrial plant environments with regulated safety standards.
• Experience in nuclear or conventional plant operations.
• Strong collaboration with stakeholders to deliver compliant engineering solutions.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage mechanical systems for safety, reliability, and compliance.
• Lead inspections, monitor performance, and implement data-driven improvements.
• Deliver engineering modifications as the responsible engineer for system changes.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to implement changes across the site.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Regulatory compliance

Stakeholder engagement

Data analysis

Education

HNC or equivalent

BEng/BSc in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Are you ready to take ownership of complex mechanical systems that play a vital role in managing the UK’s nuclear legacy? What if your next role gave you the opportunity to work across everything from pumps and process equipment to nuclear fuel handling and cutting‑edge decommissioning technology?

At Hinkley Point A, this is more than a mechanical engineering role it’s your chance to make a real impact in a highly regulated, safety‑critical environment. As a Mechanical System Engineer, you’ll manage a diverse portfolio of plant and systems while contributing to the development of innovative decommissioning solutions. With full support to build your nuclear expertise, you’ll grow into a trusted technical authority, shaping how major infrastructure is safely maintained, enhanced, and ultimately retired.

What will you be doing

You’ll take the lead in managing and optimising a range of mechanical systems, ensuring they perform safely, reliably, and in line with strict regulatory requirements. Acting as the focal point for your assigned assets, you’ll develop and deliver engineering strategies that drive long‑term performance while identifying opportunities for maintenance improvements and investment.

From leading inspections and analysing performance data to supporting modifications and new equipment designs, your work will have a direct impact on both current operations and future decommissioning projects. You’ll collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, providing expert guidance and ensuring smooth delivery of engineering changes across the site.

• Own and manage mechanical systems, developing strategies to ensure long‑term safety, reliability, and compliance
• Lead inspections, monitor performance, and implement improvements based on data and operational insights
• Deliver and manage engineering modifications, acting as the responsible engineer for system changes
• Provide technical expertise to projects and stakeholders, supporting both operational and decommissioning activities

Who are we looking for

You’re a capable and driven mechanical engineer who thrives in a hands‑on, complex environment and is motivated by real ownership and responsibility. You bring experience from an industrial or plant‑based setting and are confident working within structured engineering standards and safety frameworks. You’re equally comfortable analysing technical challenges and collaborating with stakeholders to deliver practical, high‑quality solutions.

You’ll have a strong engineering foundation, with at least an HNC (or equivalent) and ideally a degree in mechanical engineering, along with experience in a practising mechanical engineering role on industrial plant. Experience in nuclear or conventional plant operations, as well as a solid understanding of engineering standards and stakeholder engagement, is essential. Any progress toward professional accreditation, alongside experience in regulated environments, safety cases, or risk assessment, will further strengthen your profile.

• A recognised engineering qualification (minimum HNC or equivalent, ideally degree‑level) with experience in mechanical engineering on industrial plant
• Experience in nuclear or conventional plant environments, with a strong understanding of engineering standards and compliance
• Proven ability to work with internal and external stakeholders in a collaborative, safety‑focused setting
• A commitment to professional development, with interest in chartership or further technical progression

We also welcome applicants who are still developing their experience. If you have the right foundation and ambition, you’ll be supported with a structured development plan, giving you a clear pathway to grow into the full responsibilities of the role.