Deputy Design and Safety Manager reference: 1253491401

Review: Deputy Design and Safety Manager – A Pivotal Role in National Defence and Nuclear Engineering

For ambitious engineering leaders looking to make a significant impact on national security and the future of nuclear infrastructure, the Deputy Design and Safety Manager position at Babcock’s Devonport facility presents a compelling career opportunity. This role is central to one of the UK's most critical defence programmes, offering a chance to contribute to the Continuous At Sea Deterrent.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Strategic Impact: This isn't just a job; it's a chance to be at the forefront of maintaining the design integrity and safety of nuclear and critical infrastructure throughout its entire lifecycle. You will be a key decision-maker, shaping the safety culture and technical direction.
• Leadership Development: The role demands leading and mentoring a team responsible for critical design and safety artefacts. This is an excellent opportunity to hone your leadership skills in a high-stakes, complex environment.
• Technical Depth: You will be immersed in cutting-edge nuclear engineering challenges, requiring a deep understanding of high-integrity outputs and submarine infrastructure. This role offers continuous learning and the chance to work with intricate systems.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The position necessitates close collaboration with a diverse range of stakeholders, including internal design and safety teams, the Ministry of Defence (MoD), and external regulators. This exposure broadens your network and understanding of broader defence operations.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Babcock offers a competitive salary coupled with a robust benefits package designed to support employee wellbeing and financial security. This includes:
  • Generous holiday allowance and the option to trade leave.
  • A matched contribution pension scheme with life assurance.
  • Access to comprehensive health and wellbeing services through Aviva DigiCare+.
  • An employee share scheme and shopping savings portal.
  • Payment of professional fees to support your ongoing development.
  • Special paid leave for reservists in the armed forces.
  • A unique "Be Kind Day" for volunteering.
  • Excellent development opportunities and an employee assistance programme.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Security Clearance: A significant aspect of this role is the requirement to achieve and maintain Security Check (SC) security clearance. Candidates should be aware that eligibility for this clearance is subject to national security vetting processes, which consider birthplace, nationality, citizenship, and residency history. This is a crucial step for any applicant to understand.
• Specialised Expertise: While a degree in an Engineering or Scientific discipline is essential, Chartered status is highly desirable. The role also requires extensive knowledge of nuclear engineering and submarine infrastructure. Candidates without this specific background may need to focus on acquiring relevant experience and qualifications.
• Location: The role is based full-time at Devonport Royal Dockyard in Plymouth, Devon. Candidates should ensure this location aligns with their career and personal aspirations.
• Commitment to Safety: This position is deeply rooted in safety-critical operations. A strong ethical framework and an unwavering commitment to safety protocols are paramount.

In Summary:

The Deputy Design and Safety Manager role at Babcock offers a highly rewarding career path for experienced engineering leaders. It’s an opportunity to contribute to national security in a technically demanding and safety-focused environment. If you possess strong leadership, a deep understanding of nuclear engineering, and are prepared for the security clearance requirements, this position could be a significant step forward in your professional journey.