Design Manager

Help us to make a world of difference

Urenco is a global leader in the production of low carbon energy, playing a critical role in delivering secure, reliable nuclear fuel solutions worldwide. We are focused on enabling the sustainable generation of electricity for customers around the world, while operating within the highest environmental, social and regulatory standards.

In addition, as part of a strategically important industry, Urenco is now required to support the UK Government in exploring options to re-establish nuclear fuel capabilities to produce reactor fuel for defence purposes.

To support this new project, we are seeking a Design Manager to join our Capenhurst/Birchwood site. In this role, you will work within our government services function as a key interface between site teams and Group stakeholders to ensure effective planning, coordination and delivery across complex programmes.

At Urenco, we're committed to helping you be your best. If you feel you meet some, but not all, of what we're looking for, we still encourage you to apply. We believe in embracing the passion and potential of our people and offer market-leading training, development, coaching, and mentoring opportunities from some of the brightest minds in the industry.

About the Role

You will lead multidisciplinary design teams within a matrix organisation, delivering up to three concurrent projects while ensuring alignment with business objectives, customer requirements, regulatory obligations, and engineering standards.  

You will be responsible for the delivery of Front-End Engineering Design (FEED), including Feasibility Studies, Best Available Technology (BAT) assessments, Conceptual Design, and Basic Design, while supporting project execution through technical oversight, supplier management, and design assurance.

The role ensures plant and facility designs incorporate Urenco best practices, innovative technology solutions, and the highest standards of safety, quality, and operational performance. You will also play a key role in safeguarding Urenco's technology, intellectual property, and engineering standards throughout the design lifecycle.

What You'll Do

Lead Design Delivery

• Lead multidisciplinary design teams to deliver FEED activities, including feasibility studies, BAT assessments, Conceptual Design, and Basic Design.
• Ensure designs align with approved investment proposals, customer requirements, and Urenco engineering standards.
• Develop plant and facility designs that incorporate engineering best practice and innovative technology solutions.

• Work collaboratively with Project Managers to achieve project goals while meeting schedule and budget requirements.

Manage Engineering Projects

• Plan and coordinate design resources, budgets, and delivery activities across multiple projects.
• Provide engineering support throughout project execution, including review and approval of detailed designs, deviations, concessions, and FAT/SAT outcomes.
• Support investment decisions through technical assessments, optioneering studies, and design recommendations.

Drive Technical Excellence

• Ensure consistency and integration across engineering disciplines through effective management of design interfaces and technical risks.
• Deliver safe, compliant, and fit-for-purpose plant designs that meet operational, customer, and licensing requirements.
• Promote continuous improvement and application of lessons learned across engineering activities.

Provide Assurance & Stakeholder Leadership

• Build effective relationships with project teams, Design Authorities, suppliers, and key stakeholders.
• Act as the Intelligent Customer for Core Technology suppliers, providing design assurance, governance, and oversight of engineering delivery.
• Promote a strong safety culture while protecting Urenco's technology, intellectual property, and engineering standards.

What Do You Need to Thrive in This Role?

Qualifications

Essential: Bachelor's Degree in Process Technology, Nuclear Science, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automation Science, or a related discipline; or Professional Engineer (PE) accreditation.

Preferred: Master's Degree or PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Nuclear Science, Advanced Technology, or a related discipline.

Experience

• Significant experience leading multidisciplinary engineering teams and delivering medium to large-scale plant design projects.
• Proven leadership of complex engineering programmes and plant design throughout the asset lifecycle, including design and safety basis development.
• Experience managing FEED activities, including feasibility studies, Conceptual Design, Basic Design, and BAT assessments.
• Experience working within highly regulated industries and managing multiple stakeholders, suppliers, and engineering disciplines.

Technical & Leadership Capability

• Strong understanding of plant design, system integration, design interfaces, and engineering governance.
• Knowledge of plant licensing, design assurance, safety case requirements, and regulatory compliance.
• Ability to translate business, customer, and regulatory requirements into practical engineering solutions.
• Recognised expertise in technologies relevant to the enrichment, deconversion, and decommissioning sectors.
• Strong leadership, analytical, decision-making, and stakeholder management skills, with a commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.

What Can You Expect From Us?

More than just a job, we offer a future. More than just a place to work, we provide an opportunity to prosper.

As a valued member of our team, you will receive:

• Generous Annual Leave: Starting at 25 days, increasing by one day every two years (up to 30 days), plus 13 additional flexible days. Option to buy or sell up to 5 holiday days.
• Family-Friendly Policies: A wide range of policies to support work-life balance and family needs.
• Bonus Scheme: A competitive bonus scheme based on company and individual performance.
• Pension Scheme: Defined contribution plan with up to 16% employer contribution.
• Private Medical & Dental Cover: Single cover, with the option to purchase additional benefits.
• Flexible Benefits: Life assurance, income protection, and benefits tailored to your lifestyle, with potential tax and National Insurance savings.
• Training & Development: Personalised learning and development opportunities to support your career growth.

Security Vetting

Due to the nature of the industry in which Urenco operates, successful candidates will be required to obtain and maintain the appropriate level of security clearance for the role. All offers of employment are subject to satisfactory completion of the required vetting and screening checks.

Creating a Diverse and Inclusive Workforce

As a truly global organisation with operations in the UK, USA, Germany, and the Netherlands, we know that our differences make us stronger. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let our Talent Acquisition team know.

Because together, we are One Urenco. We are enriching the world. And enriching your future.