Engineer - Analysis Code Validation

Job Overview

Thermal hydraulic analysis codes are used to model fluid and thermal systems that extract power from the nuclear core and ensure safe operation of the reactor. The results of analysis codes have a key role in developing and substantiating the design of the power station as well and being an important aspect of the safety case. Due to the critical nature of analysis to the design and plant safety, it is essential that we have the required level of confidence in the analysis results and understand the limitations and uncertainties associated with model predictions.

As a code validation engineer you will work closely with the method development and analysis teams to develop this confidence and produce the supporting evidence for the safety case. The VVUQ team collaborates closely with our in‑house test capability team, who build large‑scale multi‑megawatt test rigs to represent key aspects of the plant to support the validation of the analysis codes.

You will develop analysis models of test rigs, compare code predictions against measured data, define new modelling approaches and realise these approaches in the plant models. You will also define the requirements for test rigs and support the development of the test rig designs and associated test campaigns as the key customer for the benchmarking data they produce. The role demands excellent quality‑management processes, code and software verification, and the development of robust and automated analysis routes, primarily using Python on our Linux‑based high‑performance computing resources.

Uncertainty quantification will be undertaken through a range of judgement‑based and statistical approaches, linking back to test benchmarking to support quantitative approaches. Effective communication and collaboration across a wide range of engineering and non‑engineering disciplines is essential. All performance and analysis engineers are responsible for planning their own work to ensure that objectives are met, quality processes are followed, and delivery is on schedule.

• Strong understanding of fluid dynamics and thermal processes, with experience applying structured, methodical approaches to analysis.
• Hands‑on experience using industry‑standard fluids and thermal analysis software; familiarity with nuclear thermal hydraulics tools (RELAP, FLOMASTER, VIPRE, CTF, GOTHIC) desirable.
• Proven ability to develop analysis methods, models, and tools, including Python‑based solutions, to support design and safety case development.
• Skilled in writing clear, structured analysis reports and contributing to safety case documentation.
• Experience in verification and validation of analysis models, including benchmarking, uncertainty quantification, and adherence to software QA processes.
• Knowledge of safety‑critical plant systems in industries such as nuclear, oil & gas, or aerospace; nuclear‑specific knowledge desirable but not essential.
• Track record of delivering analysis tasks to time, cost, and quality, with strong communication and leadership skills.
• Degree‑qualified in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or Computer Science;
  Chartered Engineer (or equivalent) preferred. Obtaining Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance.
• Satisfactory completion of a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Satisfactory completion of a basic financial probity check.

Hybrid working with one of the following locations as your primary site:
Derby, Manchester or Warrington.

We anticipate paying a salary between £40,000-£52,500 DOE.

• Performance‑related target opportunity 12.5% bonus.
• Benefits allowance – £2,200 per annum, enabling you to create a bespoke package.
• Pension – 12% employer and 6% employee contributions.
• Holidays – 28 days holiday (+ public holidays) and the ability to buy or sell up to 4 days.
• Private medical insurance – BUPA single cover health care.
• Life assurance – 6× pensionable pay.
• £250 one‑off payment for new starters for home office purchases.

• 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 Rolls‑Royce SMR and we’re doing something that’s never been done before, revolutionising an industry. This is more than just a job; it’s a legacy, a once‑in‑a‑career opportunity for those excited by such a challenge. The Performance & Analysis team is the centre of excellence within Rolls‑Royce SMR for the engineering analysis used to substantiate the performance and safety of the power station.

Multiple opportunities are open in thermal hydraulic analysis code verification, validation and uncertainty quantification (VVUQ) covering the reactor plant transient and fault analysis, core sub‑channel analysis and containment analysis codes.