Decommissioning - Worksite Lead Engineer
Culham, Oxfordshire (4 days on site, 1 day flexible)
12-month contract | Full-time | Start ASAP
£56-61/hour Inside IR35

Are you an experienced engineer with a proven track record in decommissioning or complex engineering projects? This is a key technical leadership role where you'll drive safe, compliant, and efficient engineering solutions across the pre-construction and construction phases of a high-profile decommissioning programme.
You'll lead technical teams, oversee worksite investigations, surveys, hazard identification, and deplanting strategies, ensuring alignment with regulatory, legal, and UKAEA processes. Your expertise will shape engineering decisions and optimise delivery across multi-phase decommissioning projects.

The Opportunity
As Worksite Lead Engineer, you will:

Lead engineering optioneering, feasibility studies, and planning within worksite constraints
Develop and maintain multi-phase decommissioning plans, including Post-Operational Clean Out (POCO) and deplanting strategies
Oversee data collection, conditioning, and validation for accurate planning and decision-making
Prepare engineering artefacts such as flow diagrams, throughput models, method statements, designer risk assessments, and Pre-Construction Information (PCI)
Interface with principal contractors, temporary works designers, and other stakeholders including health physics, waste, and asbestos teams
Mentor and support other engineers, sharing knowledge and lessons learnedYour work will directly influence safe and efficient decommissioning execution, supporting readiness reviews, hazard mitigation, and verification of compliance against project end states.

Key Responsibilities

Lead feasibility and optioneering studies to define viable decommissioning approaches
Develop detailed plans for deplanting, size reduction, and associated engineering design
Support hazard identification and maintain the Hazard Register in line with SHE requirements
Plan and coordinate investigations and characterisation activities
Prepare and present at design and gate reviews, ensuring compliance with technical and safety standards
Provide expert advice to resolve delivery obstacles using creative solutions and lessons learned
Collaborate with JDR Decommissioning Lead Engineer to define strategy and mentor teams
Support project scheduling, cost estimation, and development of technical control approvals
What We're Looking For
Essential Qualifications & Experience

Engineering degree (BSc/MSc) or equivalent
Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or equivalent experience in decommissioning roles
Proven track record delivering engineered solutions in decommissioning, demolition, or waste management projects
Strong understanding of design standards and UK compliance requirements
Experience managing complex technical projects and supervising teams
Familiarity with CDM regulations and industry-standard information management systemsCore Knowledge & Skills

Broad engineering knowledge across mechanical, electrical, and civil disciplines
Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and associated compliance knowledge
Risk assessment, hazard mitigation, and safety-critical decision-making
Strong problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
Ability to influence and lead multidisciplinary teams effectively
Why Apply?

Lead a critical technical role in a high-profile decommissioning programme
Work in a challenging, highly regulated environment with complex engineering deliverables
Opportunity to mentor and develop other engineers while influencing delivery strategy
Hybrid working with flexible on-site requirements
Immediate start with a 12-month contract and potential for extension