Senior Power and Cooling Engineer – UKIFS
Join STEP Fusion to contribute to the UK’s flagship fusion programme, the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP). As a core member of the Power & Cooling Integrated Project Team you will provide mechanical subject‑matter expertise in designing and governing critical subsystems for the STEP prototype power plant.
Location: West Burton, Nottinghamshire (on‑site 3 days a week, flexible working available).
Salary: £56,596.00 (inclusive of Specialist Allowance) plus benefits.
Closing date: 27th November 2025.
Responsibilities
* Act as the main mechanical design point of contact for the Power & Cooling system.
* Ensure mechanical integrity, manufacturability and material selection for the system and sub‑systems.
* Provide modelling and analysis (1D, CFD, digital twins), develop and disseminate internal procedures.
* Lead design of key components: complex piping, heat exchangers, rotating machinery.
* Manage water‑cooling, heat‑exchange and power extraction models and interfaces.
* Develop and supervise codes, standards and governance for mechanical design work.
* Coordinate with external and internal stakeholders to maintain alignment and risk management.
* Support project governance, risk assessment, risk register and FMECAs.
* Identify technology gaps and propose R&D activities.
* Lead and deliver major fusion sub‑systems through concept to detailed design.
* Ensure compliance with international and fusion‑specific safety and design standards.
* Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a positive, inclusive culture.
Qualifications
Essential:
* Relevant engineering degree or equivalent.
* Extensive experience on complex engineering projects.
* Proven delivery of mechanical components such as heat exchangers, rotating equipment and large‑scale piping.
* In‑depth knowledge of codes, standards, legislation and regulation for high‑pressure systems.
* Strong background in structural, thermal, fluid, solid mechanics and materials science.
* Capability in engineering analysis, design calculations and CFD.
* Experience with design governance, processes and procedures.
* Excellent communication, technical writing and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Commitment to safety, health, environment and quality best practices.
Desirable:
* Chartered status.
* Experience with fusion‑relevant environments (vacuum, magnetic fields, irradiation).
* Background in nuclear, power generation or high‑pressure system design.
* Experience managing external contracts up to £1 million.
* Leadership experience with teams up to five.
* Exposure to modern project management tools.
Additional Information
We welcome applications from under‑represented groups, including women in STEM, black and ethnic minority communities, and people with disabilities. EDI is a priority at UKIFS and we actively promote inclusion.
Applicants will need to complete baseline personnel security (BPSS) and DBS checks; SC clearance may be required in the future. International applicants should ensure they can undergo criminal record checks per UK guidance.
UKIFS is committed to accessibility. If you need adjustments to the application or interview process, contact talent@ukifs.uk.
Seniority level
Executive
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Research
Industries
Research Services
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