Principal Performance Analyst

Rolls-royce; Nottingham; Hybrid; GBP 48,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering company in the UK is seeking a Senior Engineer - Plant Performance to analyze and enhance nuclear power plant performance. This role involves designing plant architectures, conducting performance assessments, and leading technical teams. Candidates should have a strong background in fluid dynamics and thermal processes, with hands-on experience in relevant software tools. The position offers a competitive salary of £48,000-£63,000 DOE, along with attractive benefits and the chance to work in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Benefits

Performance-related bonus (12.5%)

Benefits allowance (£2,200 per annum)

Private medical insurance

Life assurance (6 × pensionable pay)

Holiday allowance (28 days + public holidays)

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of fluid dynamics and thermal processes.
• Hands-on experience with industry-standard analysis software.
• Experience in developing probabilistic methods and tools.

Responsibilities

• Design plant architectures and analyse normal and faulted conditions.
• Conduct probabilistic performance assessments.
• Lead or supervise a small team on technical delivery.

Skills

Fluid dynamics

Thermal processes

Performance analysis

Python-based solutions

Leadership skills

Education

Degree in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or Computer Science

Tools

RELAP

FLOMASTER

Job description

Role Title

Senior Engineer - Plant Performance

Location

Hybrid working with one of the following locations as your primary site: Derby, Manchester or Warrington.

Salary

We anticipate paying a salary between £48,000-£63,000 DOE.

About the Role

As a Senior Plant Performance Engineer you will analyse the performance of the nuclear power station, including the thermodynamic performance under steady‑state operation and behaviour across a range of potential transients. The scope covers the complete energy conversion system—from reactor heat generation through steam cycle conversion, cooling water provision, to electrical power generation. You will deliver periodic plant performance assessments aligned with design iterations across the engineering function, validate plant performance assumptions and provide functional data for system and component design. You will develop and implement probabilistic performance assessment methodologies to support uncertainty analysis and Robust Design practices. All engineers are expected to ensure quality of outputs through rigorous process adherence, support code validation activities, and contribute to continuous improvement of methods and tools.

Responsibilities

• Design plant architectures and analyse normal and faulted plant conditions.
• Develop and apply performance analysis models, methods, tools and experimental validation.
• Conduct probabilistic performance assessments and support uncertainty analysis.
• Lead or supervise a small team on technical delivery of work packages.
• Plan work to meet objectives, quality processes and delivery schedules.
• Apply technical expertise to develop capability, staff and leadership across the technical function.

Key Selection Criteria

• Strong understanding of fluid dynamics and thermal processes, with experience applying structured approaches to performance analysis.
• Hands‑on experience using industry‑standard fluids and thermal analysis software; familiarity with nuclear thermal hydraulics tools (RELAP, FLOMASTER) desirable.
• Proven ability to develop performance analysis models and methods to support robust design of complex energy systems.
• Experience in developing probabilistic analysis methods and tools, including Python‑based solutions.
• Skilled in verification and validation of analysis models, benchmarking, uncertainty quantification and adherence to software QA processes.
• Knowledge of safety‑critical plant systems in industries such as nuclear, oil & gas or aerospace; nuclear‑specific knowledge desirable but not essential.
• Track record of delivering analysis tasks on time, cost and quality, with strong communication and leadership skills.
• Degree‑qualified in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or Computer Science; Chartered Engineer (or working toward chartership) preferred.

Salary and Package

• Salary: £48,000‑£63,000 DOE.
• Performance‑related bonus target opportunity 12.5 %.
• Benefits allowance: £2,200 per annum.
• Pension: 12 % employer and 6 % employee contributions.
• Holidays: 28 days holiday (+ public holidays) and the ability to buy or sell up to 4 days.
• Private medical insurance – BUPA single cover health care.
• Life assurance – 6 × pensionable pay.
• £250 one‑off payment for new starters for home office purchases.

Join Us

You will 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, continuous learning and innovation.

We are an equal‑opportunity employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. As a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to fair, supportive and continually improving recruitment practices that ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Application Process

• Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance.
• Satisfactory completion of a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Satisfactory completion of a basic financial probity check.