Job description

About Cambridge Atomworks

Cambridge Atomworks, located within the Cambridge innovation ecosystem, is pioneering the development of the ODIN nuclear micro-reactor. The company builds a high-performing, collaborative team specializing in nuclear engineering, materials science, thermal hydraulics, and electricity generation. Its goal is to innovate engineering and manufacturing to compete in emerging energy markets.

Role Summary

The Programme Manager role involves overseeing the planning, coordination, and delivery of complex, long-term programmes that support the company's strategic mission. The manager ensures all operational departments—including engineering design, physics, thermal hydraulics, materials, regulatory, and business development—are aligned with deliverables and contribute effectively to company goals.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the planning, execution, and governance of company-wide programmes
Define and communicate clear milestones, dependencies, and required tasks
Identify and manage risks and critical path activities to maintain programme health
Oversee programme budgeting, monitor spending, and report financial status
Ensure alignment and integration of activities across multidisciplinary teams according to timeline plans
Serve as primary liaison for external partners, suppliers, and collaborators; coordinate contracted services to meet quality and timeliness standards
Drive preparation, submission, and management of bids, grants, and funding proposals, including budget and consortium coordination
Provide transparent progress reporting to maintain organizational awareness of programme status
Facilitate regular cross-team update meetings
Regularly update programme plans to align with strategic objectives
Promote cross-functional collaboration and enhance understanding of inter-team dependencies

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, science, business, project or programme management, or related disciplines; knowledge of nuclear engineering or energy systems is advantageous
Minimum of 5 years in programme management with proven success in overseeing complex initiatives
Familiarity with programme management methodologies, budget oversight, risk management, and multidisciplinary team leadership
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to simplify complex information
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities
Preferred: Master’s degree in relevant fields and formal certifications like PRINCE2 Practitioner, MSP, or PMP
Experience in regulated industries (nuclear, aerospace, defence, energy, infrastructure) is a plus
Track record of managing external partnerships, consortium projects, and successful grant or bid applications
Knowledge of government grant funding and reporting processes preferred

Role Attributes

Comfortable handling ambiguity and transforming complexity into structured plans
Ability to work effectively at an operational level without losing sight of details
Strong commitment to quality and ethical conduct
Pragmatic and hands-on mindset with a positive attitude
Resilience and adaptability suited for a fast-paced startup environment
Effective motivator and influencer across diverse teams
Fosters open, honest, constructive, and encouraging cross-team relationships

What We Offer

Chance to collaborate with a dynamic nuclear reactor development team
Opportunities for direct mentorship and professional growth
Flexible working arrangements in a supportive, cooperative culture
Access to advanced facilities and collaborations with world-class partners
Competitive compensation
Participation in a strategically positioned, rapidly expanding organization influencing the nuclear energy sector

Additional Information

Applicants should submit a CV and cover letter by noon on 30 March 2026. Online interviews are expected during the week starting 13 April, followed by in-person interviews at the Cambridge office in the week beginning 4 May.

Programme Manager