Model- Systems Engineering Lead

Company Overview

STEP Fusion — UK Fusion Energy (UKFE) Ltd, a subsidiary of the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), 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, building a fusion supply chain valued at an estimated £7 tn per year.

We are seeking a Lead MBSE Engineer to take ownership of the Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) strategy for a first‑of‑a‑kind commercial fusion power plant programme. This role is a unique opportunity to act as the technical authority for MBSE capability, working across the organisation and its partners to deliver the landmark STEP programme.

Onsite working is expected for 3 days each week, though flexible working is supported.

• Develop and communicate a clear MBSE vision and implementation strategy.
• Own MBSE capability definition across people, process, and tools.
• Define competency frameworks, role profiles, and training pathways.
• Establish requirements for MBSE tool chains and process development.
• Own and maintain the MBSE framework, including reusable models and templates.
• Define lifecycle expectations and “what good looks like” for MBSE.
• Support and influence delivery teams to embed MBSE into their plans.
• Drive continuous improvement through lessons learned.
• Act as the authoritative voice on MBSE methods and approaches.
• Coach and mentor engineers in MBSE practices.
• Represent the organisation in external forums and industry bodies.
• Build and sustain communities of practice.
• Define and govern MBSE policy, standards, and conventions.
• Approve deviations and ensure compliance.
• Establish model quality criteria (traceability, completeness, usability).
• Approve models for decision‑making and programme assurance.
• Embody a strong leadership mindset and organisational values.
• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high‑performing environment.
• Lead with integrity, professionalism, and ethical standards.
• Support effective decision‑making across complex challenges.

• A relevant degree in a recognised STEM subject.
• Professional registration as Chartered Engineer with a recognised engineering institution (e.g. IfSE, IET, IMechE).
• Experience in defining and embedding new capabilities in organisations.
• Demonstrable expertise in the development and use of MBSE tools, languages, and frameworks.
• Experience in defining and enforcing policies, standards and conventions.
• Significant knowledge of Systems Engineering and the ability to apply it pragmatically.
• Exemplary communicator with strong evidence of the ability to influence diverse stakeholders.

• Member of Institute for Systems Engineering (MIfSE).
• Systems Engineering Professional accreditation (ASEP/CSEP) with the International Council of Systems Engineering.
• OMG‑Certified Systems Modeling Language Professional certification (e.g. SysML Model Builder Fundamental/Intermediate/Advanced).
• Experience in using Dassault Systèmes 3DS tools, specifically Catia Magic and 3DX.

• 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.
• A vibrant culture committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.

The salary for this role is £64,115 plus an outstanding pension. This role includes a non‑contractual and non‑pensionable specialist allowance of £7,700 in addition to the base salary.

This UKFE vacancy will be based at our site in West Burton, Nottinghamshire
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We welcome applications from under‑represented groups, particularly women in STEM, individuals from British black and ethnic minority backgrounds, and individuals with disabilities. Our…