Commissioning Project Leader – Mechanical

Job Title: Nuclear Commissioning Project Leader – Mechanical

Location: Barrow-In-Furness, Onsite

Salary: Negotiable dependent on experience

Who we are:

Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions, shaping a safer future for all of us. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space, there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.

What you will be doing:

In this role, you will drive the delivery of the test and commissioning plan, supporting a team of nuclear commissioning engineers and contributing to the wider Reactor Test Group (RTG). You will authorise test documentation, act as an Authorised Person within the Permit to Work process and review key engineering outputs and commissioning documentation. You will also support planning activities and play a key role in embedding Learning from Experience (LFE) across the programme.

Core duties:

• Drive delivery of the test and commissioning plan across assigned systems and test sections
• Support, mentor, and develop a multidisciplinary team of commissioning engineers at various levels
• Plan and manage test and commissioning programmes in a complex nuclear environment
• Support the Reactor Test Group (RTG) and authorise technical test documentation
• Act as an Authorised Person within the Permit to Work system
• Review engineering outputs, technical documentation, and commissioning deliverables
• Embed Learning from Experience (LFE) across programme delivery and operations
• Apply knowledge of nuclear and submarine systems to support safe and effective commissioning activities

Essential Skills:

• Degree, HNC, HND in an engineering discipline or equivalent relevant experience
• Strong understanding of nuclear systems and associated testing and commissioning processes (ideally including nuclear steam raising plant experience)
• Understanding of submarine systems and their operation within complex defence environments
• Experience supporting, coaching, and mentoring teams in high-integrity or regulated environments
• Experience planning and delivering test and commissioning programmes across complex systems
• Experience working on nuclear licensed or COMAH sites (desirable)
• Understanding or experience as a Cat B Nuclear Operator or equivalent nuclear industry background (desirable)
• Demonstrable ability to embed Learning from Experience (LFE) and drive continuous improvement

The RTS Commissioning Team:

As a Nuclear Commissioning Project Leader – Mechanical, you will lead the planning and execution of a defined test section within a wider commissioning programme covering multiple engineering systems, disciplines, and platform assemblies. You will be responsible for leading a diverse group of commissioning engineers and ensuring safe, compliant, and efficient delivery of complex nuclear test activities. This role provides the opportunity to influence commissioning strategy, strengthen delivery capability, and embed LFE across a major defence programme that forms part of a national endeavour. Relocation support packages are available across all Submarines roles, subject to meeting eligibility criteria.

A place where everyone can thrive:

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified people and encourage discussion of reasonable adjustments where needed.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to security and export control restrictions. Applicants must meet Baseline Personnel Security Standard, and many roles require higher levels of National Security Vetting, including 5–10 years continuous UK residency depending on the role.

Why BAE Systems?

Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. Lifelong learning, meaningful work, and a supportive culture enable you to grow with confidence. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and supported with rewards that matter most to you.

Closing Date: 13th August 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications. If you are interested, please apply as early as possible.

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