Company Overview
UK Fusion Energy (UKFE) Ltd, a subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), is at the forefront of developing sustainable fusion energy. Through the design and delivery of the STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) programme, the company aims to build a prototype fusion plant with first operations around 2040.
Location
This vacancy can be based at either West Burton, Nottinghamshire, or Culham, Oxfordshire.
Role Overview
The Magnets Engineering Manager will report to the Head of Tokamak Machine and lead an integrated team—including UKFE, UKAEA staff and external specialists—to deliver the magnets design and development essential for the STEP prototype. The role will evolve as the programme approaches construction and contract award.
Responsibilities
* Accountability 1: Technical Authority
o Ensure overall adequacy of magnet design: performance, integrity and technical delivery.
* Accountability 2: Drive Magnet Design
o Prioritise design efforts to align with overall plant design.
o Guide the team to achieve required design definition levels and confidence.
o Manage interfaces with wider STEP power plant systems.
o Ensure IP is managed in accordance with UKIFS policy.
* Accountability 3: Technical Risk Management
o Drive technology demonstration to eliminate major obstacles.
o Review priorities and deploy resources accordingly.
* Accountability 4: Cross‑Functional Interaction
o Champion cross‑functional working.
o Make informed decisions and solve problems effectively.
o Pursue best‑for‑programme solutions and lead cross‑functional teams to implement them.
o Work with Project Managers to manage budget and milestones.
* Accountability 5: Team Development
o Develop strategy for magnet staff recruitment, retention, training & development.
o Build corporate competence and practical experience in magnet design, manufacture and operations.
o Foster a culture of innovation and practical delivery.
* Accountability 6: Supply Chain Development
o Engage with global technical experts to develop solutions and build manufacturing capacity.
o Maximise value added by UK supply chain bodies with a focus on economic and social value.
o Ensure effective technical and quality management of contracts and collaborations.
* Accountability 7: Leadership Mindset
o Foster a positive and inclusive team environment aligned with cultural values.
o Promote teamwork and maintain a respectful workplace.
o Act as a cultural ambassador and leadership example.
Essential Skills and Experience
* Demonstrated significant leadership experience in the development and/or delivery of superconducting magnets.
* Degree or equivalent professional recognition in a relevant engineering or scientific discipline.
* Chartered engineer or equivalent status with a relevant professional body (or commensurate experience).
* Expert and broad knowledge of magnet technology.
* Substantial experience in the engineering of complex systems.
* Effective team worker with a practical approach to problem solving and excellent communication skills.
* Proven ability to inspire and motivate.
* Experience setting strategic direction and revising priorities in a rapidly evolving context.
* Experience coordinating interdisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists.
Desirable Experience
* Expertise in high‑temperature superconductors, quench detection and protection, superconducting cable design, manufacturing, commissioning & operation, or tokamak engineering.
* Experience working with emerging technologies.
* Experience on major engineering programmes (e.g., big science).
Additional Information
* UKFE welcomes applications from under‑represented groups, particularly women in STEM, individuals from British black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and those with disabilities. The Executive team, supported by our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Partner and Inclusion Ambassadors, actively promotes EDI and works to remove barriers to success.
* Applicants will be required to complete an online Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) and relevant Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks. SC clearance may be required in the future; existing SC clearance can be transferred to UKIFS.
* For applicants from outside the United Kingdom, see the UK government guidance on criminal record checks here (links removed for formatting).
* Vacancies are typically advertised for 4 weeks but may close earlier if a large number of applications are received.
Benefits
* Outstanding defined benefit pension scheme.
* Corporate bonus scheme up to 7% and a relocation allowance (if eligible).
* Flexible working options including family‑friendly policies.
* Employee Assistance Programme and trained Mental Health First Aiders.
* Generous annual leave allowance starting with 25 days, plus 3 days Christmas closure and 2.5 privilege days, in addition to UK bank holidays.
* Wide range of career development opportunities.
* Vibrant culture committed to equality and full inclusivity.
Application Deadline
29th June 2026
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