Principal Mechanical Engineer

Assystem; Sunderland; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nuclear engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Principal Engineer to join their Fusion and Modular Nuclear Business Unit. You will lead engineering activities for Small Modular and Advanced Modular Reactors, ensuring precision in design and compliance with safety standards. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in regulated sectors and a strong background in thermal power systems. This role offers attractive social benefits and a hybrid work arrangement.

Benefits

Attractive social benefits

Ongoing training opportunities

Holiday bonuses

Hybrid work arrangement

Qualifications

• Strong experience in highly regulated industries like nuclear, thermal power generation, or oil and gas.
• Expertise in thermal power systems and equipment.
• Proven track record in optioneering and studies.

Responsibilities

• Deliver front engineering activities for Small Modular Reactors and Fusion projects.
• Lead design teams to create essential design documents.
• Integrate developed systems into broader plant infrastructure.

Skills

Experience in regulated industries

Thermal power systems expertise

Optioneering proficiency

Mentoring junior staff

Exceptional communication skills

Familiarity with relevant codes and standards

Requirements management appreciation

Results-oriented

Job description

Assystem is a global leader committed to accelerating the energy transition. With 7,500 employees across 12 countries, we tackle the monumental task of switching to low‑carbon energy. Our 55+ years of experience in highly regulated sectors ensure we deliver top‑notch engineering, project management, and digital solutions.

Job Description

🚀 Join the Fusion and Modular Nuclear Business Unit! 🚀 Reporting to the FEED Engineering Manager you will be responsible for delivering front engineering activities for Small Modular Reactors, Advanced Modular Reactors and Fusion projects. The Principal Engineer shall work closely with multi‑disciplined teams and will deliver scope through leadership of an engineering design team.

Your mission

• 🔥 Spearheading the delivery of cutting‑edge power station systems.
• 👨💼 Taking charge of optioneering studies to pinpoint the ultimate solution that perfectly aligns with client objectives.
• 📝 Leading a dynamic team in crafting and refining essential design documents, from Process Flow Diagrams to Equipment Datasheets, ensuring precision and excellence at every step.
• 💡 Directing the development of Design Description Documents and Requirement Specifications, driving innovation and efficiency in every design aspect.
• 🔄 Seamlessly integrating developed systems into the broader plant infrastructure for optimal performance and functionality.
• 🛠️ Serving as the technical guru for designated scopes, guaranteeing top‑notch expertise and oversight.
• 📊 Chairing exhilarating Design Reviews and leading HAZID/HAZOP studies with diverse, multidisciplinary teams to ensure safety and excellence in every project facet.
• 🛡️ Enforcing strict adherence to company statutory H&S Policies and regulations, while ensuring unwavering compliance with project and Quality Management System standards.

Why Join the Community of Switchers?

• 🌟 Over 55 years in nuclear engineering.
• 🏆 Ranked among the top 3 largest nuclear engineering companies.
• 💼 Attractive social benefits, including an engaging Employee Committee and holiday bonuses.
• 📚 Ongoing training with numerous career opportunities.
• 📈 70% of our managers are promoted internally!
• 🏠 Hybrid work: 1‑2 days remote per week.

Qualifications

• 💼 Strong previous experience in highly regulated industries like nuclear, thermal power generation, or oil and gas.
• 💡 Expertise in thermal power systems and equipment, from steam turbines to pumps, with a keen understanding of nuclear power plant operations.
• 🔍 Proficiency in optioneering and conducting studies to evaluate viable options, backed by a track record of crafting compelling ALARP and BAT arguments.
• 👨🏫 Experience in mentoring and developing junior staff, along with a proven history of leadership in managing small teams.
• 📢 Exceptional communication skills for seamless interaction with internal and external stakeholders.
• 📜 Familiarity with ASME, European, and UK codes and standards, coupled with a deep understanding of Product Safety Legislation.
• 🛠️ Appreciation for requirements management and systems engineering principles.
• 🎯 Results‑oriented with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, coupled with strong organizational skills.
• 🔒 British National with eligibility for obtaining and maintaining full UK security clearance.

Additional Information

We are committed to equal treatment of candidates and promote, as well as foster all forms of diversity within our company. We believe that bringing together people with different backgrounds and perspectives is essential for creating innovative and impactful solutions. Skills, talent, and our people’s ability to dare are the only things that matter! Bring your unique contributions and help us shape the future.