Lead Engineer – MKoP Structures

Final date to receive applications: THURSDAY 2ND JULY, 2026

Role:
Lead Engineer – MKoP Structures Locations:
Hybrid working with one of the following closest locations as primary:
Derby, Warrington, or Manchester Our mission

Our mission is to deliver clean, affordable energy for all. Our Small Modular Reactor (SMR) provides a British solution to a global energy challenge. We are in pole position to become a global leader in SMRs and the UK’s premier green export technology.

The team

The Modularisation team is central to delivering one of the defining features of our SMR design. Focused on standardisation, repeatability and build certainty, the team develops the modular “kit of parts” approach that underpins efficient manufacturing, installation and deployment across global sites.

The role

In this context, we are looking for a Lead Engineer – MKoP Structures, reporting to the MKoP Engineering Manager. As a senior technical leader, you will take ownership of the structural design and performance of the SMR Modularisation System, including frames, barriers, drainage and flooring.

This is a high-impact role where you will drive the development of a standardised modular structural system, leading optioneering and analysis to define optimal design, manufacturing and construction solutions. You will play a critical role in progressing designs through our Definition Review (DR) governance process, while shaping solutions that enable safe, repeatable and cost-effective deployment. Alongside this, you will mentor engineers, provide technical assurance and act as an intelligent customer across internal teams and supply chain partners.

What you’ll be delivering

We’ll need you to:

Leading structural design and analysis of modular frames and associated kit-of-parts, ensuring performance, safety and compliance

Driving optioneering, trade-off studies and robust design decisions to optimise modular and structural solutions

Managing delivery of work packages through Definition Review gates, ensuring alignment to programme cost, quality and schedule

Coordinating interfaces across CSA, components and supply chain partners to deliver integrated solutions

Providing technical leadership, mentoring engineers and defining best practice across structural design and modularisation

Acting as an intelligent customer, assuring and accepting structural outputs from internal and external contributors

What you’ll bring

This is a pivotal role at the forefront of modular innovation—you’ll bring deep technical expertise, strong engineering judgement and the ability to lead, influence and drive delivery across a complex, highly regulated environment.

Skills & experience

Chartered Engineer (IStructE or ICE), with a degree in Civil or Structural Engineering We’ll ask about your experience delivering complex structural design solutions, including steelwork and modular systems, within regulated or safety-critical industries

Strong capability in structural analysis tools (e.g. Robot, Abaqus, Lusas) and in applying codes, standards and verification processes

Experience applying systems engineering and robust design methodologies, including DfX and optioneering

Proven ability to lead teams, manage stakeholders and deliver integrated solutions across multidisciplinary programmes

Location

This role can be based at any Rolls-Royce SMR location, with hybrid working supported. Regular collaboration is expected, with some travel required to engage with teams and partners.

What’s in it for youWe offer a competitive salary and a strong benefits package including bonus (up to 12.5%), pension, 28 days’ leave plus public holidays, and a benefits allowance. There is significant opportunity to shape both the role and the wider modularisation strategy as the programme scales.

You’ll be joining a forward-thinking organisation working on a nationally significant programme, with real scope for leadership, innovation and career progression.

Inclusion & accessibility

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. As a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to inclusive and accessible recruitment practices and will make…