Commissioning Project Leader – Mechanical

About the Role

Join BAE Systems and play a pivotal role in delivering advanced, technology-led defence solutions. 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. This role offers the opportunity to influence commissioning strategy, strengthen delivery capability, and embed Learning from Experience (LFE) across a major defence programme.

What You Will Be Doing

In this position, you will be responsible for driving the delivery of the test and commissioning plan for assigned systems and test sections. You will provide support, mentorship, and development to a multidisciplinary team of commissioning engineers at various levels. Key responsibilities include planning and managing test and commissioning programmes within a complex nuclear environment, supporting the Reactor Test Group (RTG), and authorising technical test documentation. You will also act as an Authorised Person within the Permit to Work process, review engineering outputs and commissioning deliverables, and embed LFE across programme delivery and operations. Applying your knowledge of nuclear and submarine systems will be crucial for safe and effective commissioning.

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 and Experience:

• 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.
• Demonstrable ability to embed Learning from Experience (LFE) and drive continuous improvement.

Desirable Skills and Experience:

• Experience working on nuclear licensed or COMAH sites.
• Understanding or experience as a Cat B Nuclear Operator or equivalent nuclear industry background.

Security and Residency Requirements:

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

Location

Barrow-In-Furness, Onsite

Closing Date

13th August 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications.

Why BAE Systems?

At BAE Systems, you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. We offer lifelong learning, meaningful work, and a supportive culture that enables you to grow with confidence. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and supported with rewards that matter most to you. Relocation support packages are available for this role, subject to eligibility criteria.