Below, we explore the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear, with data to back them up, so you know where the opportunities and pressures lie.
The UK nuclear sector is experiencing a revival.
With a growing focus on energy security, decarbonisation, and skills development, nuclear energy is once again being seen as an essential part of the UK’s energy mix.
As a result, demand for skilled professionals is increasing rapidly.
Whether you’re hiring for a project or looking for your next opportunity, understanding the most sought-after nuclear roles can give you an advantage.
At Astute, we specialise in nuclear recruitment across the UK.
1. Nuclear Safety Engineers
Nuclear safety is paramount.
Engineers in this space are responsible for ensuring plant systems, designs, and processes comply with stringent safety standards.
Why are Nuclear Safety Engineers one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
As the UK progresses with new build projects like Hinkley Point C and looks ahead to Sizewell C, demand for professionals who can interpret, advise on, and implement nuclear safety protocols has increased.
According to the 2024 Nuclear Workforce Assessment, the UK sector needs around 24,000 additional skilled workers by 2030, many in safety-critical roles.
2. Radiation Protection Advisors
Radiation Protection Advisors (RPAs) ensure workers, the public, and the environment are protected from radiation risks.
They’re critical to both operational and decommissioning projects.
Why are RPAs one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
As legacy nuclear sites move into decommissioning and active sites remain operational, the need for qualified RPAs continues to rise.
3. Control and Instrumentation Engineers
Control & Instrumentation Engineers (C&I Engineers) are responsible for ensuring nuclear power plants operate within safe limits.
They maintain, calibrate, and design the systems that monitor plant performance.
Why are C&I Engineers one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
The combination of an ageing workforce and newer digital systems is creating a widening skills gap in this area.
4. Project Managers (Nuclear New Build & Decommissioning)
Project Managers with nuclear-specific experience are essential to manage cost, scope, timeframes, and risk on high-value infrastructure projects.
Why are Project Managers one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
Large-scale projects such as Hinkley Point C, now budgeted at £31 – 34 billion (2015 prices) and future Small Modular Reactor (SMR) deployments require expert project leadership.
Health Physics Monitors / Surveyors
These professionals are crucial for monitoring radiation levels and ensuring safe working conditions.
Why are Health Physics Monitors one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
Decommissioning efforts at sites such as Sellafield and Dounreay continue to grow, increasing the need for hands-on radiological monitoring.
Mechanical Design Engineers
Mechanical Design Engineers design critical systems for both operational and construction phases of nuclear sites.
Why are Mechanical Design Engineers one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
From pipework and reactor pressure vessels to robotics in decommissioning, this role is essential across all phases of the nuclear lifecycle.
Commissioning Engineers
Commissioning Engineers test systems and ensure they function as expected before a plant becomes operational.
Why are Commissioning Engineers one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
With Hinkley Point C unlikely to generate electricity before 2029/2030, skilled commissioning professionals are already in high demand, with future needs expected to rise for SMR programmes.
Nuclear Waste Management Specialists
These roles focus on the safe storage, transport, and disposal of nuclear waste.
Why are Nuclear Waste Management Specialists one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
The UK government has committed to finding a long-term geological disposal facility (GDF) and has active Working Groups in Mid-Copeland, South Copeland and Theddlethorpe, Lincolnshire. Specialists in this area will be key.
Electrical Engineers
Electrical Engineers design, install, and maintain power systems and control systems, critical for nuclear site operations and grid integration.
Why are Electrical Engineers one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
Nuclear sites, particularly new builds, are relying on engineers who can integrate systems efficiently with renewable assets and ensure compliance with modern regulations.
Quality Assurance (QA) & Quality Control (QC) Specialists
QA/QC professionals ensure that nuclear projects comply with required standards and specifications, supporting safety and efficiency.
Why are QA and QC Specialists one of the 10 most in-demand roles in Nuclear?
As nuclear projects become more complex and scrutiny increases, strong QA/QC systems are more important than ever.
What This Means for Employers in the Nuclear Sector
With a high number of experienced professionals approaching retirement and a pipeline of nuclear projects growing across the UK, the skills shortage is acute.
Organisations seeking to deliver successful outcomes, whether in operations, construction, or decommissioning, need recruitment partners that understand the unique compliance, safety, and technical demands of the nuclear industry.
That’s where Astute comes in.
We work closely with Tier 1 contractors, EPCs, and site license companies to deliver talent across every phase of the project lifecycle.
From sourcing contract resource to building long-term permanent teams, we help our partners access the nuclear talent they need.
Why Candidates Are Choosing Nuclear Careers Now
Nuclear energy is fast becoming one of the most future-proof careers in energy.
- Net zero by 2050 cannot be achieved without nuclear
- Median pay in nuclear is around 80 % higher than the UK median salary.
Whether you’re a qualified engineer, graduate, or experienced specialist, this is a great time to explore a career in nuclear.
Partner with a Specialist Nuclear Recruitment Agency
At Astute, we’ve been supporting the UK’s energy sector for over 15 years.
Our specialist nuclear recruitment consultants understand the market, speak your language, and deliver results.
Want to talk about how we can help?
Looking to build a team, scale up quickly, or find a hard-to-source skillset?
Let’s talk.
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can support your next project.
