Location:
Derby, Warrington or Manchester (Hybrid)
Our Mission
At Rolls-Royce SMR, we’re transforming the future of clean energy. Our mission is to deliver reliable, affordable low-carbon power through innovative small modular reactor technology. By combining proven nuclear expertise with advanced manufacturing, we’re helping to create a more sustainable future and supporting global energy security.
The Team
You’ll be part of the Structural Analysis team within our Engineering directorate, working on some of the most critical components of the reactor island. The team brings together a mix of experienced engineers and developing talent, collaborating closely with design, materials, manufacturing and safety specialists.
Operating in a highly regulated and safety-critical environment, the team plays a central role in maturing the SMR design, supporting key programme milestones and ensuring robust substantiation of complex components.
The Role:
As a Senior Engineer in Structural Analysis, you’ll provide technical leadership and domain expertise in the assessment of major reactor island equipment, including pressure vessels and their support structures.
You will lead analysis work packages, contribute to design substantiation and ensure designs meet stringent regulatory and safety requirements.
What We’ll Need You to Do:
Lead and deliver structural analysis activities for major nuclear components, including FEA and code-based assessments
Perform assessments in line with ASME BPVC (Section III), including fatigue and defect tolerance evaluations
Take ownership of technical outputs, ensuring quality, traceability and compliance
Provide technical oversight and mentor engineers
Collaborate across engineering disciplines to influence design solutions
Interface with suppliers and subcontractors
Plan and coordinate analysis work packages aligned to programme timelines
Solve complex engineering challenges using sound judgement
Drive continuous improvement in tools and processes
What You’ll Bring:
Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline
Chartered Engineer status or working towards
Strong experience in structural analysis in a safety-critical industry
Proven delivery of engineering analysis work packages
Experience across the product lifecycle
Strong FEA knowledge (ANSYS or Abaqus)
Experience with ASME Section III assessments
Knowledge of defect tolerance methods (R6, BS 7910, API 579)
Understanding of degradation mechanisms and material behaviour
Strong leadership, communication and collaboration skills
Location
This role can be based in Derby, Warrington or Manchester with hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
What’s in It for You
We anticipate paying a salary of between £50,650.00 - £66,500.00 DOE plus:-
Bonus - Performance related target opportunity 12.5%
Benefits Allowance – £2,200 per annum, enabling you to create a bespoke package
Pension - 12% employer and 6% employee contributions.
Holidays - 28 days holiday (+ public holidays) and the ability to buy or sell up to 4 days.
Private Medical Insurance - BUPA single cover health care
Life Assurance - 6x pensionable pay
£250 - One-off payment for new starters for home office purchases
You’ll be joining a rapidly growing organisation at a critical stage of its development, offering excellent opportunities for learning, professional development, and long-term career progression within a purpose-driven and innovative environment.
Inclusion & Diversity
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Inclusivity is central to our culture, and we are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported.
We are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements and will make reasonable workplace adjustments where required to support individuals in performing at their best.
Confidence can sometimes hold us back from applying, but there’s no such thing as a ‘perfect’ candidate. If you feel you meet around 75% of the requirements, we would love to hear from you.
We also welcome applications from individuals considering a sector move, particularly those with transferable experience from other regulated or safety-critical industries.

Pay Range:
£50,600.00-
£66,465.00
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
#LI-SZ1 #hybridworking #engineeringjobs #chemistry #weareSMR