Product Quality Manager
UK Fusion Energy (UKFE) Ltd, a subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority, is at the forefront of developing fusion sustainable energy. Through the design and delivery of the STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) programme we aim to build a prototype fusion plant, targeting first operations around 2040. UKFE will lead delivery, collaborating with industrial partners and building a fusion supply chain with an estimated global sector value of £7tn per year.
Location: West Burton or Nottinghamshire (on‑site 3 days a week, flexible working supported).
Salary: £73,190 with outstanding pension, bonus up to 7%, flexible working, and generous leave.
Job Description
The Product Quality Manager is a senior leadership role within the Design Authority, accountable for defining and delivering the Product Quality Strategy for the STEP fusion programme. Reporting to the Head of Engineering Assurance, the role provides programme and regulatory confidence that products are safe, fit‑for‑purpose, certifiable, and perform as intended across the full lifecycle—from concept and design through manufacture, delivery, and operation.
Key Responsibilities
* Define and deliver the STEP Product Quality Strategy, aligned to Design Authority expectations, regulatory requirements, and engineering priorities.
* Set the approach for achieving fit‑for‑purpose, performance‑driven quality in a first‑of‑a‑kind fusion environment with evolving standards.
* Drive consistent application of quality principles across engineering and the supply chain.
* Establish expectations for structured quality and reliability methods, including design risk analysis (e.g. FMEA, DFMEA, FTA) and structured problem‑solving (e.g. RCA, 8D, DMAIC).
* Build and lead a high‑performing Product Quality function, embedding capability, leadership depth, and continuous improvement.
* Provide confidence that the Engineering Management System (EMS) and governance enable safe, reliable, and high‑quality outcomes.
* Define and implement a risk‑proportionate assurance framework for a first‑of‑a‑kind programme.
* Oversee independent assurance activities, including audits, readiness reviews, and compliance assessments.
* Define and deliver the product certification and conformity strategy for regulated systems.
* Oversee certification activities, including UKCA conformity evidence, essential requirements, and technical file integrity.
* Embed certification pathways within engineering workflows and lifecycle decision‑making.
* Lead engagement with regulators, notified bodies, and assurance partners, providing confidence in novel technologies and approaches.
* Lead the identification, assessment, and management of product quality risks across the engineering lifecycle.
* Establish a structured, risk‑informed quality risk management approach integrated with Design Authority decision‑making.
* Facilitate risk workshops and drive mitigation actions to closure.
* Act as a senior Design Authority leader, influencing quality outcomes across engineering, supply chain, and partners.
* Champion a culture where quality is engineered in, reflecting the high‑consequence nature of deployed systems.
* Promote curiosity, evidence‑based decision‑making, and effective problem‑solving within complex technical environments.
Qualifications
* Degree‑level Science or Engineering qualification (or equivalent experience).
* Chartered member with a relevant institution.
* Strong understanding of engineering principles and product lifecycle management.
* In‑depth knowledge of quality management systems and applicable standards (e.g. ISO9001).
* Experience leading product certification and conformity assessment activities, including managing UKCA‑relevant evidence, technical files, and engagement with regulators or notified bodies.
* Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate technical and quality risks while enabling innovation.
* Ability to lead multi‑disciplinary teams and manage complex technical interfaces.
* Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
Beneficial
* Track record of creative problem‑solving in ambiguous or innovative environments.
* Experience of the full lifecycle for technically complex plant systems within major programmes.
Additional Information
We welcome applications from under‑represented groups, particularly women in STEM, individuals from British black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities. Our Executive team, supported by our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Partner and Inclusion Ambassadors, actively promotes EDI and takes steps to increase diversity within our organisation. We reinforce best practices in recruitment and selection and evaluate approaches to remove barriers to success.
This role requires employees to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), including DBS checks for criminal convictions. A future SC clearance may be required; if an applicant already holds an SC clearance, it can be transferred to UKIFS.
Applicants applying from outside the United Kingdom or those who have spent time outside the UK in the last five years should consult the UK Government guidance on criminal records checks.
The closing date to apply for this position is the 12th May 2026. Please email talent@ukifs.uk if you require help or adjustments to compete on a fair basis.
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