Programme Manager

Job Title: Programme Manager

Location: Cambridge, UK

Job Type: Part-Time (20 hours per week minimum) or Full-Time

Salary: Competitive

Reporting to: Head of Regulatory Engagement and Programme

About Us

Cambridge Atomworks is developing the ODIN nuclear micro-reactor and is situated at the heart of the Cambridge innovation ecosystem. We are building a high-calibre, collaborative team of experts in nuclear engineering, materials science, thermal hydraulics, and electricity generation. As we take the company forward, Cambridge Atomworks will require innovative engineering and manufacturing approaches across these fields to establish itself in emerging energy markets.

Role Overview

The Programme Manager will lead the planning, coordination, and delivery of complex, multiyear programmes that advance the company s mission.

This role will ensure that all key operational workstreams across engineering design, physics, thermal hydraulics, materials, regulatory and business development are clear on deliverables and contribute to the realisation of the company s strategy.

Key Responsibilities

Own programme planning, execution, and governance across the company

Communicate clear milestones, dependencies, and required activities

Identify, assess, and manage programme risks and critical path activities

Manage programme budgets, monitor expenditure, and report on financial performance

Drive alignment across teams making sure all activities are integrated and progressing against timing plans

Act as the primary point of contact for external partners, suppliers, and collaborators, coordinating and overseeing contracted work to ensure quality, timeliness, and alignment with programme objectives

Lead the preparation, submission, and management of bids, grant applications, and funding proposals, including budget development and consortium coordination

Establish clear reporting of progress to maintain company awareness of programme status

Facilitate update meetings across teams on a regular basis

Update and refresh programme plan periodically in order to ensure adherence to overall strategic goals

Advocate cross functional collaboration and help support teams understanding of cross company dependencies

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in engineering, science, business, project/programme management, business administration, or a related field. Knowledge of nuclear engineering or energy systems an advantage.

Essential Experience

5+ years' experience in programme management roles

Proven experience delivering complex programmes

Understanding of programme management methodologies

Experience managing budgets, schedules, risks, and multi-disciplinary teams

Excellent communication, and interpersonal skills

Ability to simplify complexity and produce clear information

Good analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities

Preferred Experience

Master s degree in engineering, business, or a related field

Formal programme or project management certification (e.g., PRINCE2 Practitioner, MSP, PMP)

Experience in highly regulated sectors (e.g., nuclear, aerospace, defence, energy, infrastructure)

Knowledge of nuclear engineering, reactor development, or advanced energy technologies

Experience coordinating external partners, suppliers, or consortium-based projects

Proven track record in leading or contributing to successful bids and grant applications

Familiarity with government grant funding processes and reporting requirements

Role Characteristics

Comfort with ambiguity and able to bring structure to complexity

Ability to operate at a detailed operational level without getting overwhelmed

Commitment to quality and ethical standards

Positive outlook, with a pragmatic, hands-on approach

Resilient, adaptable, and able to thrive in a dynamic start-up environment

Ability to influence and motivate diverse teams

Open, honest, constructive and encouraging approach to cross-team relationships

What We Offer

Opportunity to work with a dynamic nuclear reactor development team

Direct mentorship and technical growth opportunities

Flexible work environment and collaborative culture

Access to state-of-the-art facilities and world-leading partners

Competitive salary

Be part of an ambitious and rapidly growing organisation which is operating in a strategic position to influence this sector

Please submit your CV and covering letter to by the deadline of noon on 30 March 2026.

Online interviews are anticipated to be held on the week commencing 13 April. Successful applicants will be invited to an in-person interview held at our offices in Cambridge on the week commencing 4 May.