Role: Mechanical Contract Lead – Nuclear Access Systems
Location: Bristol (hybrid)
Employment Type: Permanent / Staff
Salary: Depending on level of experience
Vulcain Engineering, an international engineering consultancy, supports global industrial leaders in their transition to a more responsible and sustainable future. We support our customers in the design, construction, commissioning and operation of their complex infrastructure projects that will shape the world of tomorrow. With operations in 17 countries and employing over 6,000 staff worldwide, our business responds to the needs of our clients by delivering high-value engineering expertise tailored to our clients’ most complex challenges.
In the UK, we have a key focus in the Nuclear sector, contributing to ground breaking projects, such as Hinkley Point C (HPC).
The Position: Mechanical Contract Lead – Nuclear Access Systems
Due to ongoing business growth, we are expanding our technical teams in Bristol and looking to hire an experienced Mechanical Engineer to join Vulcain on a full-time permanent basis, to play an integral part of our major nuclear new build programmes.
The Mechanical Engineer will support the design and integration of industrial door systems and lifting/handling interfaces on a major nuclear new build programme. The role sits within a high-performing engineering team and will focus on safety-critical access systems and their integration within complex plant environments.
Some of the main responsibilities of the Mechanical Contract Lead will include:
- Provide technical oversight of mechanical packages across industrial door systems and access solutions
- Review supplier designs for containment, access and safety-related doors
- Ensure integration with lifting, handling and interfacing systems
- Manage technical queries across design, installation and operation phases
- Ensure compliance with nuclear safety and regulatory requirements
- Contribute to design reviews, workshops and technical meetings
- Monitor risks and support resolution of interface issues
- Maintain alignment with configuration and project design change
This is an opportunity to play a key role in one of the UK’s most significant nuclear infrastructure programmes, working on complex, safety-critical equipment within a highly collaborative engineering environment. This role offers the chance to work on highly specialised systems that are fundamental to safety and operability within a next-generation nuclear facility.
Preferred Profile:
Alongside a commitment to our values of Care & Compassion, Performance, Team Spirit, and Inclusiveness, we are looking for individuals who can bring the following:
- Background in mechanical engineering, ideally within complex or regulated environments
- Experience with industrial doors, access systems, or mechanical interfaces
- Knowledge of lifting and handling integration or plant access systems
- Understanding of design review and supplier engagement processes
- Familiarity with safety-critical or highly regulated engineering environments
- Ability to manage technical interfaces across multiple disciplines
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
- Structured, detail-focused approach to engineering delivery
- Reside locally to Bristol or be prepared to relocate, as this permanent role does not include travel expense coverage.
Please note that visa sponsorship is not guaranteed and is assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on role criticality and project needs. Many of our UK projects require high-level security clearance, meaning we can often only consider candidates with an existing, indefinite right to work in the UK. Exceptionally, we may consider visa sponsorship for applicants with niche experience aligned to our core work (e.g. EPR/nuclear new build).
Remuneration & Benefits:
We offer a competitive salary tailored to your experience and background. Whether you're earlier in your career or bring more senior-level expertise, we encourage you to apply if this role aligns with your skills, or if you're open to discussing other opportunities within this discipline.
We also offer a benefits package, both standard and enhanced, which is designed to support your wellbeing, development, and financial future, including:
- 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays, with the ability to swap bank holidays for cultural or religious celebrations
- Matched Pension Scheme
- Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, Adoption and Neonatal Care Leave
- Employee Referral Scheme
- Private Medical & Dental Insurance
- Electric Vehicle Scheme
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Training & Development, including additional qualifications and accreditations relevant to your role
- Travel Insurance – for both business and personal travel
- Employee Assistance Programme
Why join us?
At Vulcain Engineering, we offer more than just a job, we offer a rewarding career with endless opportunities for growth and development. You'll be part of a talented team of professionals working on exciting and meaningful projects and making a real impact to the nuclear industry.
We offer a dynamic and collaborative work environment where your talents are valued, and your contributions are recognised.
Join us in shaping the future of the nuclear industry and driving innovation to new heights. If you are ready to take on new challenges and unlock your full potential, we invite you to apply for our position.
Equal Opportunities:
Vulcain Engineering UK is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background, and do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.
If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will be happy to accommodate your needs.
We appreciate every application. However, due to the volume we receive, we’re only able to contact candidates who are shortlisted for this role or who may be a strong fit for future opportunities.









