About The Role

Rolls Royce SMR is on a mission to deliver clean, affordable energy for all. As the leading Small Modular Reactor programme in Europe, we’re building a British solution to a global energy challenge and shaping one of the country’s most significant green export opportunities.

The time has come to recruit a Senior Manager, Reactor Build who will be accountable for developing, implementing and continuously improving the operational capability required to deliver Reactor Build activities across all RR SMR programmes. Working closely with the Plant Delivery Mobilisation team, the role is responsible for all "Do" aspects of Reactor Build , establishing how reactor systems will be assembled, installed, tested and handed over safely, efficiently and repeatedly. This will include:

Developing the operating model, methods, processes, standards, competencies and organisational capability required to deliver Reactor Build
Translating product designs and delivery strategies into executable operational solutions that can be deployed safely and at scale across future projects.
Establishing the methods engineering, process development, operational standards and workforce capability needed to execute Reactor Build activities
Leading the creation and growth of a specialist Reactor Build organisation capable of supporting First-of-a-Kind delivery and subsequent fleet deployment activities

We seek an influential and resilient leader who will have had exposure in regulated or safety‑critical environments (as you would expect nuclear "know-how" will be of of great interest to us, whilst those from defence, aerospace and energy sectors may all have transferable capability). We will need your application to showcase your experience and knowledge in the following areas:

Significant experience in manufacturing, assembly, construction, commissioning, operational delivery, industrialisation or major programme execution environments
Demonstrable track record of leading operational teams in regulated and safety-critical environments.
Development operational methods, procedures, tooling strategies, technical standards and execution plans for complex industrial or engineering activities
Establishing or scaling new operational capabilities, functions or delivery organisations, including development of people, processes, governance and technical standards

The above is but a summary, a full role profile is available from Alex Jordan (I am easy to find on LinkedIn) and the closing date for applications is 20-Sept-2026.

Location & Ways of Working

This role can be based from our Derby, Manchester or Warrington office. Hybrid working is standard, with regular supplier travel required. Some international travel may also be required depending on supplier activity. In return we offer:

A salary between £71,000 and £93,200 depending on experience
17% performance related bonus and a longer term incentive scheme
A benefits allowance of £5,000 to build a personalised package
Pension – 12% employer, 6% employee
Holidays – 28 days + public holidays (option to buy/sell up to 4 days)
Private Medical Insurance – BUPA
Life Assurance – 6× pensionable pay
£250 one-off home office setup payment

You’ll join a forward thinking, inclusive and innovative organisation offering

A flexible and supportive working environment
Opportunities for career progression and professional development
A culture that values diversity, innovation and continuous learning


 Pay Range

£71,000.00 -
£93,187.50
 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.