Project Manager - C&I

AWE plc; Reading; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading nuclear and defence contractor in Reading is looking for an experienced Project Manager to lead a major construction programme. The role requires managing complex projects within a nuclear-regulated environment, focusing on safety, compliance, and performance. Ideal candidates will have significant construction project management experience, along with strong stakeholder engagement skills and relevant certifications. SC clearance is essential, and the position emphasizes team leadership and effective communication.

Qualifications

• Current and active SC clearance required.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in Project Management.
• Significant experience in nuclear or defence construction projects.

Responsibilities

• Leading operational delivery of construction works in a nuclear environment.
• Managing site-based packages and multi-contractor teams.
• Ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards.

Skills

Project Management

Stakeholder Engagement

Risk Management

Instrumentation & Control (I&C) Systems

Leadership

Education

Degree qualified with project management certifications (APM, PMP, PRINCE2)

Job description

Are you an accomplished Project Manager with proven experience in the nuclear or defence sector? We're seeking a high‑calibre professional to support a major nuclear construction programme at AWE Burghfield. This is a hands‑on, site‑based role delivering critical national infrastructure—perfect for someone who thrives in complex, highly regulated environments.

What you’ll be doing

• Leading the day‑to‑day operational delivery of major construction works within a nuclear‑regulated environment.
• Managing significant site‑based packages and coordinating multi‑disciplinary, multi‑contractor teams.
• Building collaborative relationships with key stakeholders and maintaining clear communication throughout delivery.
• Ensuring that nuclear safety, quality, and compliance standards are met at all times.
• Driving performance against strict schedules and budgets through proactive controls, risk management, and quality oversight.
• Fostering an inclusive team culture and motivating others to achieve successful project outcomes.
• Applying strong project controls and commercial management processes (NEC3 & NEC4).
• Ensuring all key project deliverables and milestones are met consistently and to the highest standard.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Current and active SC clearance (essential).
• Degree‑qualified (or equivalent) with formal project management certifications (APM, PMP, PRINCE2, etc.).
• Significant experience managing complex construction projects in highly regulated nuclear or defence environments.
• Strong background delivering Instrumentation & Control (I&C) systems.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in Project Management.
• Demonstrable leadership of multi‑contractor, multi‑discipline delivery teams.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement skills.
• Able to perform under pressure and deliver in a fast‑paced, mission‑critical environment.
• Eligible to obtain DV clearance.