Nuclear HVAC System Design Manager

Role: Nuclear HVAC Systems Design Manager

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

The Business

Our mission is to deliver clean, affordable energy for all. Our Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology provides a British solution to a global energy challenge. Positioned to become a world leader in SMRs, we’re building the UK’s premier green export capability and shaping the future of safe, sustainable nuclear energy.

The Team

The HVAC team forms a critical part of Reactor Island engineering, designing safetycritical ventilation and thermal management systems that protect people, plant and the environment. We work with colleagues across layout, components, civil and other systems design discipline teams to deliver fully integrated, compliant HVAC systems for the next generation of nuclear power.

Summary

We are seeking a Nuclear HVAC Systems Design Manager to lead a team of around 20 engineers designing and integrating nuclear HVAC systems across the Reactor Island. The role involves planning the design activities, driving delivery, developing team capability, risk management and supporting governance processes. Reporting to the Senior Manager – HVAC System Design, this role ensures regulatory and safety compliance and supports delivery of integrated HVAC solutions across the SMR programme.

Key Deliverables – We’ll Need You To

• Develop and maintain the engineering delivery plans.
• Deliver compliant HVAC system designs integrated into the Reactor Island.
• Apply nuclear safety principles in the design of nuclear HVAC systems in aid of building the plant safety case.
• Represent the HVAC team at technical reviews.
• Scope, enable and manage the work of other parties contributing to the design of HVAC systems.
• Work with stakeholders to manage system requirements.
• Develop processes to maintain an understanding of design changes across the Reactor Island that impact the HVAC system design.
• Develop and maintain relationships with internal teams, 3rd parties supporting the design, equipment suppliers and regulators.
• Build the team and its capability.
• Drive the identification of risks and put mitigation plans in place.

This is a pivotal, highimpact and long term role shaping a safetycritical system, where you’ll apply your HVAC expertise, systems thinking and strong integration skills across a complex engineering programme.

Essential Skills / Qualifications

• Experience managing teams of engineers.
• A strong background in HVAC system design within nuclear or similarly regulated environments.
• Knowledge of nuclear safety principles, design codes and systems engineering.
• Experience in supplier engagement, change management and process development.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Location

Hybrid working, with regular attendance at our Derby, Manchester or Warrington offices depending on project and team requirements.

What’s in it for me?

• Salary £60,000–£75,600 DOE
• 12.5% bonus
• £2,200 benefits allowance
• 12% employer pension, 28 days leave, BUPA cover, life assurance and a £250 home office allowance — within a rapidly growing engineering organisation.

Why Join Us?

You’ll 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, innovation, and continuous learning.

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

Confidence can sometimes hold us back from applying for a job. But we'll let you in on a secret: there's no such thing as a 'perfect' candidate. If you feel you meet 75% of the requirements for this role, we would love to hear from you.

Also, if you are considering a career move or a sector-jump, please get in touch – we welcome applications from people with transferable skills.

Our Application Process

Due to the safety regulations within the nuclear industry, applicants will be required to participate in additional screening. These are:

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

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