Site Lead Engineer – Nuclear Decommissioning

Vulcain Engineering - UK; England; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays

Enhanced parental leave provisions

Private Medical & Dental Insurance

Electric Vehicle Scheme

Cycle to Work Scheme

Training & Development opportunities

Travel Insurance

Employee Assistance Programme

Job summary

Vulcain Engineering UK is seeking a Site Lead Engineer for Nuclear Decommissioning. The role provides technical ownership of safety‑critical decommissioning activities on site, with influence over strategy, sequencing, and execution.

The candidate will lead option studies, develop multi‑phase plans, and coordinate hazard controls, with extensive interaction with safety, health physics, and stakeholders. A senior, hands‑on engineering position offering a clear career path.

Qualifications

• Degree or Chartered Engineer with decommissioning experience.
• Experience delivering engineered decommissioning or waste projects in the UK.
• Ability to manage complex technical projects and mitigate risks.
• Familiarity with design standards and CDM regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead optioneering, feasibility studies, and engineering decisions within site constraints.
• Develop and deliver multi-phase decommissioning plans.
• Produce decommissioning flow diagrams and throughput models.
• Plan and support Post-Operational Clean Out (POCO) activities.
• Lead investigations and characterisation planning.
• Develop deplanting, size reduction, and demolition plans.
• Support hazard identification and ensure controls are recorded.

Skills

Decommissioning experience

Project risk management

Technical leadership

Health & Safety awareness

Education

BEng/BSc in Engineering

MEng/MSc or Chartered Engineer

Job description

Role: Site Lead Engineer – Nuclear Decommissioning

Duration: 12 months fixed term contract with possibility of extension

Vulcain Engineering, an international engineering consultancy, supports global industrial leaders in their transition to a more responsible and sustainable future. We support our customers in the design, construction, commissioning and operation of their complex infrastructure projects that will shape the world of tomorrow. With operations in 17 countries and employing over 6,000 staff worldwide, our business responds to the needs of our clients by delivering high-value engineering expertise tailored to our clients’ most complex challenges.

In the UK, we have a key focus in the Nuclear sector, contributing to ground breaking projects, such as Hinkley Point C (HPC).

The Position: Lead Engineer – Nuclear Decommissioning

Vulcain Engineering UK are looking for an experienced Lead Engineer to take technical ownership of complex, safety‑critical decommissioning activities at site level. This is a senior, hands‑on engineering role with real influence over strategy, sequencing, and on‑site execution.

Some of the main responsibilities of the Lead Engineer will include:

• Lead optioneering, feasibility studies, and engineering decision‑making within worksite constraints
• Develop and deliver multi‑phase decommissioning plans
• Produce decommissioning flow diagrams and throughput models
• Plan and support Post‐Operational Clean Out (POCO) activities
• Lead investigations and characterisation planning
• Develop deplanting, size reduction, and demolition plans and designs
• Support hazard identification and ensure controls are captured in the Hazard Register
• Prepare method statements and designer risk assessments
• Prepare for and present at design and project gate reviews
• Compile Pre‑Construction Information (PCI) and support Construction Phase Plan (CPP) development
• Support on‑site principal designer and principal contractor teams, managing interfaces with health physics, waste, asbestos, and other stakeholders

Preferred Profile:

Alongside a commitment to our values of Care & Compassion, Performance, Team Spirit, and Inclusiveness, we are looking for individuals who can bring the following:

• Degree in a relevant engineering discipline (BEng/BSc, MEng/MSc) or Chartered Engineer status, or equivalent experience in similar decommissioning roles
• Proven experience delivering engineered solutions on decommissioning or waste management projects, preferably from within the UK Nuclear sector
• Ability to manage highly complex technical projects and mitigate engineering and project risks
• Strong working knowledge of design standards and compliance requirements
• Essential familiarity with CDM regulations and their practical implementation
• Good understanding of the Health & Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
• Experience acting as a technical lead, including coaching and mentoring others
• Broad appreciation of multiple engineering disciplines

We offer a competitive salary tailored to your experience and background.

We also offer a benefits package, both standard and enhanced, which is designed to support your wellbeing, development, and financial future, including:

• 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays, with the ability to swap bank holidays for cultural or religious celebrations
• Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, Adoption and Neonatal Care Leave
• Employee Referral Scheme
• Private Medical & Dental Insurance
• Electric Vehicle Scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Training & Development, including additional qualifications and accreditations relevant to your role
• Travel Insurance – for both business and personal travel
• Employee Assistance Programme

At Vulcain Engineering, we offer more than just a job, we offer a rewarding career with endless opportunities for growth and development. You'll be part of a talented team of professionals working on exciting and meaningful projects and making a real impact to the nuclear industry.

We offer a dynamic and collaborative work environment where your talents are valued, and your contributions are recognised.

Vulcain Engineering UK is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background, and do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will be happy to accommodate your needs.

We appreciate every application. However, due to the volume we receive, we’re only able to contact candidates who are shortlisted for this role or who may be a strong fit for future opportunities.