Plasma Control & Sensor System Manager

Company Description

The UK Government has established [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], a subsidiary of UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA), to lead the charge in delivering fusion energy through design and delivery of the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) prototype fusion plant. [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is establishing itself, setting up the company, attracting talent, engaging with industry, developing a supply chain, and planning and constructing of the STEP prototype.

Fusion energy, crucial for combating climate change and ensuring energy independence, is expected to be commercially viable by mid-century. The UK, led by [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], aims for a prototype fusion plant, targeting first operations around 2040. [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] will lead delivery, collaborating with industrial partners and building a fusion supply chain with an estimated global sector value of £7tn per year. Join [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] and the STEP programme to be involved in this ground breaking journey.

As an employee of [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal], you will benefit from: Outstanding defined benefit pension scheme, Corporate bonus scheme up to 7% and a Relocation allowance (if eligible), Flexible working options, Employee Assistance Programme, Generous annual leave, Career development opportunities, and a vibrant inclusive culture.

Job Description

Fusion energy offers low-carbon, safe, abundant energy. STEP is the UK's flagship programme to deliver a prototype fusion plant targeting 2040. This role reports to the Head of Plasma Development and leads a team of 15-25 in developing plasma control and sensor systems.

Responsibilities include: engaging with the UK plasma science programme, partnering with industry, collaborating with Design Authority and engineering teams, identifying international collaboration opportunities, and prototyping aspects of the plasma control system.

Accountabilities

• Drive plasma control development for robust and safe operations
• Lead establishment of a world-class control team
• Work at forefront of plasma control research
• Inform actuator requirements
• Embed plasma control into virtual representation of STEP
• Work with universities and industry to develop innovative solutions
• Lead decision route map for plasma control design
• Drive plasma sensor system development
• Identify optimal sensor system set
• Develop innovative plasma sensor systems
• Manage team and external organisations to execute plans
• Support Head of Plasma Development with project execution
• Manage intellectual property
• Promote world-class R&D
• Embody a leadership mindset

Qualifications

Essential

• PhD level background in relevant scientific/engineering discipline
• World-class expertise in plasma control and/or plasma sensor systems
• Broad understanding of tokamak plasma physics and operations
• International reputation with high quality research outputs
• Proven track record delivering complex projects to quality, time and budget
• Experience leading collaborative research projects
• Excellent communication skills
• Strategic and innovative thinking
• Team-building and collaboration skills
• Understanding of SHE and Quality Assurance standards

Beneficial

• Project management processes
• Experience with commercial organisations
• Experience across plasma-materials-technology boundaries
• Leadership of research team in large project
• Line-management and staff development
• Professional body membership (e.g. IoP)
• Modern project management tools

Additional Information

We welcome applications from under-represented groups. [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] is committed to accessibility. Contact [Employer hidden — sign up to reveal] for adjustments. This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) including DBS checks. SC clearance may be required in future. For applicants outside the UK, criminal records checks apply. Closing date: 31st May.