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Gemma Nixon

Senior Recruitment Partner at Astute People Ltd
4.75
from 266 reviews
Jobs
Mechanical Design Engineer
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Nuclear team is partnering with a leader in specialist water treatment and technology services across the UK to recruit a Mechanical Design Engineer to join its established team in Birmingham. The strategically important Mechanical Design Engineer role comes with a competitive salary and company car as well as additional benefits including additional birthday leave, an enhanced pension and medical insurance. If you’re a Mechanical Design Engineer and are looking to work for an organisation that people at the forefront of everything it does, then submit your CV to apply today.                   Responsibilities and duties Reporting to the you will:  
  • Manage mechanical design for water processing plants, ensuring project deliverables are met.
  • Collaborate with clients, internal engineers, and CAD designers to integrate mechanical elements into plant designs.
  • Develop equipment specifications and generate mechanical layouts (e.g., piping and equipment).
  • Working with CAD designer and other design engineers to create and evolve P+ID, General Arrangement and detailed drawings to define the plant design.
  • Maintain schedules and contribute to HAZOP processes.
  • Communicate with site and commissioning managers.
  • Evaluate quotations for technical compliance and participate in design risk assessments.
    Professional and personal qualifications We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Strong communication and good interpersonal skills.
  • Self-motivated to deliver with 7+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in the municipal or industrial wastewater sectors.
  • Formal education in Mechanical Engineering (e.g., Apprenticeship, HNC/HND, or Degree).
  • Experience and knowledge of equipment used in the water treatment industry and steel fabrication techniques.
  • Proficiency in CAD (e.g., Autodesk) and software like Excel and Word.
  • Ability to perform mechanical calculations (e.g., hydraulic and FEA).
  • Experience interpreting PFDs and P&IDs.
  • Full Driving License.
  Package of the Mechanical Design Engineer role  
  • Competitive Salary + Company Car 25 days annual leave + birthday leave
  • Additional benefits include an enhanced pension, life assurance private medical insurance, dental insurance, car leasing, travel insurance, and more.
 

 


Project Engineer - ELectrical
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
  Astute’s Nuclear Team are partnering with an international player in the nuclear energy market to recruit a Project Engineer for their facility in Cranfield.  The Project Engineer will provide operational engineering support for all current and future project activities, including the planning, building, commissioning, maintenance, and operation of R&D test rigs and facilities. The Project Engineer role comes with a competitive salary of £45,000 - £60,000 dependant on experience, 8% employer pension contributions, professional membership support and a wealth of other benefits. If you’re an experienced Project Engineer and are looking to work for an organisation that is recognised for its innovative solutions for designing, building, maintaining, and advancing the global nuclear sector, then please submit your CV to apply today.   Responsibilities and duties of the Project Engineer role   Reporting to the Site Operations Manager, you will:  
  • Collaborate with engineering and project management teams to interpret design drawings and technical specifications, developing bespoke measurement systems suitable for high-pressure, high-flow, and high-temperature environments.
  • Plan and manage detailed project schedules to ensure on-time delivery of critical milestones and objectives.
  • Assemble and install mechanical systems, machinery, and components in accordance with engineering documentation and quality standards.
  • Design and produce Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and system schematics to support project execution.
  • Develop clear and concise work and assembly instructions for use across engineering and production teams.
  • Conduct technical analysis and reporting to support risk management and design validation activities, including DFMEA, HAZOP studies, and Risk Assessments.
  • Manage procurement processes, ensuring timely acquisition of materials and equipment aligned with project timelines and specifications.
  • Operate and maintain test rigs and custom fixtures for the validation and verification of customer-specific assemblies and system performance.
  • Perform scheduled maintenance, inspections, and repairs on test equipment and specialized systems to ensure operational reliability and compliance.
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical faults, replacing or repairing defective components as needed to minimize downtime.
  • Maintain comprehensive records of maintenance, calibration, and testing activities in accordance with Health & Safety and quality management protocols.
Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Bachelor’s Degree in an Engineering discipline (Mechanical/Electrical/I&C)
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a manufacturing, R&D test, or service environment.
  • Proven experience in an engineering discipline (Mechanical/I&C) or a similar role.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated capability in managing project work packages.
  • Proficient in the use of hand and power tools.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
  • Familiarity with working in ISO or similar procedural environments.
  • Enthusiastic and committed, with a willingness to work within tight timelines.
Salary and benefits of the Project Engineer role  
  • Basic salary of up to £60,000 dependant on experience.
  • 25 days holiday + bank holidays
  • Competitive benefits package

Project Engineer - Mechanical
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Nuclear Team are partnering with an international player in the nuclear energy market to recruit a Project Engineer for their facility in Cranfield.  The Project Engineer will provide operational engineering support for all current and future project activities, including the planning, building, commissioning, maintenance, and operation of R&D test rigs and facilities. The Project Engineer role comes with a competitive salary of £45,000 - £60,000 dependant on experience, 8% employer pension contributions, professional membership support and a wealth of other benefits. If you’re an experienced Project Engineer and are looking to work for an organisation that is recognised for its innovative solutions for designing, building, maintaining, and advancing the global nuclear sector, then please submit your CV to apply today.   Responsibilities and duties of the Project Engineer role   Reporting to the Site Operations Manager, you will:  
  • Collaborate with engineering and project management teams to interpret design drawings and technical specifications, developing bespoke measurement systems suitable for high-pressure, high-flow, and high-temperature environments.
  • Plan and manage detailed project schedules to ensure on-time delivery of critical milestones and objectives.
  • Assemble and install mechanical systems, machinery, and components in accordance with engineering documentation and quality standards.
  • Design and produce Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs), Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), and system schematics to support project execution.
  • Develop clear and concise work and assembly instructions for use across engineering and production teams.
  • Conduct technical analysis and reporting to support risk management and design validation activities, including DFMEA, HAZOP studies, and Risk Assessments.
  • Manage procurement processes, ensuring timely acquisition of materials and equipment aligned with project timelines and specifications.
  • Operate and maintain test rigs and custom fixtures for the validation and verification of customer-specific assemblies and system performance.
  • Perform scheduled maintenance, inspections, and repairs on test equipment and specialized systems to ensure operational reliability and compliance.
  • Diagnose and resolve mechanical faults, replacing or repairing defective components as needed to minimize downtime.
  • Maintain comprehensive records of maintenance, calibration, and testing activities in accordance with Health & Safety and quality management protocols.
Professional qualifications   We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Bachelor’s Degree in an Engineering discipline (Mechanical/Electrical/I&C)
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in a manufacturing, R&D test, or service environment.
  • Proven experience in an engineering discipline (Mechanical/I&C) or a similar role.
  • Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.
  • Demonstrated capability in managing project work packages.
  • Proficient in the use of hand and power tools.
  • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
  • Familiarity with working in ISO or similar procedural environments.
  • Enthusiastic and committed, with a willingness to work within tight timelines.
Salary and benefits of the Project Engineer role  
  • Basic salary of up to £60,000 dependant on experience.
  • 25 days holiday + bank holidays
  • Competitive benefits package

Electrical Layout Engineer
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Nuclear team is partnering with an international leader in the nuclear energy industry to recruit a Electrical Layout Engineer for its Bristol site. The essential Electrical Layout Engineer role comes with a salary up to £65,000, hybrid working and private health care. If you’re a Layout Engineer and are looking to work for an organisation that works across critical UK and international nuclear projects, then submit your CV to apply today.                   Responsibilities and duties As the Electrical Layout Engineer you will:  
  • Assessment of the layout engineering data for the building including process and instrumentation, equipment, cable and electrical information. Ensuring analysis and verification of the technical scope.
  • Implement layout engineering to improve and/or modify the design where needed to input various electrical and mechanical equipment.
  • Work with the wider team to assess the routing of piping, cable trays and HVAC ducts within the 3D Model.
  • Produce technical documents such as status reports, introduction notes, design procedures and change analyses
  • Coordinate with other relevant teams for the layout activities, sharing layout drawings and plans
  • Where possible look to anticipate and adapt to changing needs of the project, keeping all parties updated and on track with progress and modifications.
  • Any other duties as required
    Professional qualifications We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Engineering Degree relevant to role
  • Experience in at least one of the following areas of engineering: Electrical Layout, Electrical, HVAC, mechanical, safety etc.
  • Nuclear experience is highly desirable in particular projects involving PWR.
  • Previous experience working with 3D design software (e.g. Navisworks, AutoCAD, PDMS and/or E3D)
    Personal skills The Electrical Layout Engineer role would suit someone who is:  
  • Knowledge of Electrical and general layout requirements for heavy industrial projects
  • Confident in challenging ideas and designs for effective solutions to meet the requirements for all levels of stakeholders
  • Able to thrive in a technically challenging role in a dynamic environment
    Salary and benefits of the Electrical Layout Engineer role  
  • A salary of £45,000 - £65,000 depending on experience and seniority.
  • Hybrid working with 3 days a week in the office
  • An opportunity to travel internationally to European offices
  • Private Health care
 

Commercial Manager
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Person Specification The Commercial / Contract Manager should thrive in a challenging and dynamic environment, possessing not only the technical expertise but also the leadership qualities required to drive success across complex commercial projects. Experience:  - Proven experience in a Junior contract /commercial management role, particularly in handling high value, complex, contracts.  - Good background in corporate finance, with a good understanding of financial reporting, budgeting, and cost management.  - Foundational experience in complex negotiations and stakeholder management, demonstrating an ability to handle high-pressure situations with tact and professionalism.  - Strong knowledge of contract terms and construction industry regulations, with the ability to interpret and apply them to projects. Personal Attributes:  - A confident and professional manner, with excellent presentation skills to engage clients and stakeholders effectively.  - Determination and resilience: the ability to stay focused and motivated, even in the face of setbacks or challenges.  - A passionate, enthusiastic, and charismatic approach to leadership, inspiring teams and clients alike.  - Innovative mindset, with a willingness to explore new ways of achieving results, and challenge conventional thinking when necessary.  - A positive outlook, always focused on finding opportunities in adversity, and an ability to maintain motivation in difficult situations.  - Assertiveness in ensuring objectives are met, with a results-driven attitude and the ability to make decisions and take action when required.

Senior Cost Controller
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent

Astute’s Nuclear team is partnering with one of the international leaders supporting in the nuclear energy sector to recruit a Senior Cost Controller for their Avonmouth site. 

 

The rewarding Senior Cost Controller role comes with a salary of up to £74,000 per annum, with the opportunity to lead integrated cost reporting across a portfolio of nuclear projects.

 

If you’re a Cost Controller and are looking to work for an organisation that is known for its innovative solutions and high-value technologies, then submit your CV to apply today.

 

Responsibilities and duties

 

Reporting to the Head of Project Controls you will:

  • Lead the Cost Control function within Project Controls, establishing standards, procedures, and templates for all projects.
  • Develop and maintain cost control tools and processes, ensuring all staff follow best practices.
  • Train and mentor staff in cost control methods, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
  • Manage SAP project structures, ensuring compliance with business and project requirements.
  • Produce cost reports across the portfolio, including centralised reporting cycles and Cost of Non-Quality (CoNQ) assessments.
  • Analyse cost data to provide assurance, insights, and consolidated reports to project, programme, and portfolio managers.
  • Support tender cost estimation and maintain centralised productivity and cost norms.
  • Oversee project cost management activities, including invoicing, variations, cost vs. budget analysis, earned value management (EVM), and cash flow reporting.

 

 

Professional qualifications

 

We are looking for someone with the following:

 4+ years of experience in cost control within the nuclear, construction or manufacturing sectors.

Proficient using Microsoft Excel

Previous experience in a senior role is desirable

 

Personal skills

 

The Senior Cost Controller role would suit someone who has:

  • A strong background in cost control, ideally within large-scale, complex projects.
  • Experience leading or mentoring others, with the confidence to set standards and guide teams.
  • Proven skills in using SAP for project set-up, reporting, and analysis.
  • A track record of developing tools, templates, and processes that improve efficiency.
  • The ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • A proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement.
  • The adaptability to work across multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

 

Salary and benefits of the Senior Cost Controller

 

Up to £74,000 per annum

25 days annual leave per year raising to 30 (1 day for every 2 years’ service)

8% Employer pension contribution and many more fantastic benefits.


Site Manager
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Site Manager
  • Submit Candidate
  • When submitting candidates for this role please make sure they have been fully briefed on the details on the company, the role, the company benefits and you have obtained their right of representation for this role. Any CV's that are sent directly to recruiting managers and not submitted following the correct process will be considered as a gift.

     

    Maximum Salary (£) depending on experience.

    55000

     

    (Please do not advertise the salary for any of our roles)

     

     

    Site Manager

     

    Home-based with frequent Site visits when required

     

    1 Year Fixed term contract, Full-time, Monday - Friday 37 hours

     

    25 days annual leave (plus UK bank holidays), Company vehicle/car allowance

    ________________________________________________________________________

     

    Are you a Site Manager looking to take the next step in your career by joining a successful and rapidly growing global company, who can offer you structured progression opportunities and flexible benefits? Are you passionate about Ecological Transformation and being a part of making a change to the planet?

     

    If so, we have a fantastic opportunity to join our leading, well respected water technologies company, where you will be responsible for the effective and efficient site management of your assigned project to programme, budget and quality objectives whilst maintaining a ‘zero LTA’ safety record. You will deliver the project site programme to plan and specification whilst maintaining customer satisfaction at all times. At Veolia Water Technologies UK (VWT UK), we are committed to ensure you have the best experience possible and take your career to the next level!

     

    Your responsibilities will include but not limited to:

    • Preparation and implementation of project programmes.

    • Managing subcontractors on site.

    • Prepare working programmes and ensure a detailed, practical commissioning programme is available.

    • Monitor and report on the performance of project team, partners, subcontractor, suppliers, client, consultants against programmes.

    • Ensure risk assessments/method statements are reviewed prior to commencement of any site work.

    • Identify areas of responsibility in matters of contract interface.

    • Interact proactively with other departments and members of the project team within the site team, with head office, with regulatory authorities and the public, between client, partners, Principal Contractor and sub-contractors.

    • Ensure the appropriate levels of resources are engaged at site and develop a balanced and cohesive team.

    • Establish priorities and resolve conflict within the site team.

    • Induct all staff and subcontractors on site as required.

    • Manage site costs including assisting Project Manager/QS in preparing monthly CVR and forecasts.

    • Issue notice to subcontractor to commence work and receive check supply only goods and complete GRN’s.

    • Ensure that Record Vouchers/Technical Query sheets are prepared, signed and forwarded to the QS.

    • Ensure site is properly established and maintained, ensuring safe working at all times on site.

    • Issue permits to work by authorised persons.

    • Nomination, in writing, of appointed/responsible persons to comply with identified hazards and H&S legislation.

    • Provide adequate welfare and first aid facilities.

    • Conduct regular audits with clients and subcontractors to review and discuss H&S matters.

    • Ensure project is executed in accordance with the Quality, Environmental and H&S plan.

    • Implement project specific Quality, Environmental and H&S plans. Regularly review and update the project plans.

    • Ensure close out of site in accordance with the Company Procedures.

     

    General requirements for the role:

    • IOSH qualification or relevant H&S qualification is essential

    • SMSTS Qualified

    • First Aid (3 day at Work) Qualified

    • Experience of site management in a relevant industry is essential

     

    Additionally, having the following is a bonus!

    • Knowledge in Google Suite 

     

    What’s next?

    If you feel this role is suited for you, click on the “Apply” button. The Recruitment team will review your application as soon as possible and if your experience and skills match closely with what we are looking for, we will be in touch to discuss the next steps.

     

    Our promise to you

    We know that the expectation of a good role goes both ways, so alongside your salary, you receive a company vehicle or the equivalent car allowance. This is in addition to our extensive benefits package which includes 25 days annual leave, our market leading pension and share scheme and a range of employee discounts and employee referral bonuses - as we’d like nothing more than to give your family and friends an opportunity too! Also, to help you a little further, we provide mental health and financial support, so you know exactly who to lean on whenever you need to.

     

    Apply today, so we can make a difference for generations to come!


Layout Team Lead
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Job title: Layout Team Lead Max characters: 40 Location: Bristol (minimum 3 days in the office), with occasional travel to France Salary/range, per annum:
  • Minimum range: £61,000
  • Maximum range: £71,000
(Depending on experience) A career that will deliver change. Together, we’ll help Britain achieve Net Zero.?  The Opportunity  EPR-E established in 2023, is in charge of the design (basic design) and the realization (studies, procurement, erection, testing and commissioning) of nuclear islands for new projects. In particular, EPR-E is responsible for the design of the nuclear island for the Hinkley Point C (HPC) project and preparing the design replication and engineering activities for the Sizewell C (SZC) Project. As part of the Responsible Designer for the Hinkley Point C EPR project, EPR-E provides the design for the Nuclear Island (NI). EPR-E is responsible for delivering the design for a number of NI buildings, systems and equipment contracts for the Hinkley Point C EPR Project through an integrated team, support to HPC construction and commissioning activities, and preparing design replication feasibility and engineering activities for the Sizewell C Project. Therefore, a Technical Directorate is being created, responsible for the engineering disciplines and technical expertise required to deliver the different engineering projects through integrated teams in EPR-E. For the HPC project, we are currently looking to recruit for the role of Layout Team Lead. As a Layout Team Lead, you will be responsible for assisting with several of the below listed activities depending on the job/project requirements and the competences and experience:  
  • Managing a team of between 8 – 12 Layout Engineers.
  • Coordinating the production of deliverables and/or rework in accordance with the schedule, cost and quality as defined by the Building Manager.
  • Supporting the tracking of delivery, ensuring Scheduling Tool (Paladin) up to date.
  • Delegating and distributing topics/activities within the team, organising the workload considering their competency, skills, capacity and existing workload.
  • Providing technical expertise to their team and interfaces.
  • Ensuring technical accuracy and quality of deliverables through the application of the appropriate review and approval process.
  • Ensuring that the Team applies EPR-E Processes & Tools where applicable (UK-DC, IDT, NCR, WeCAD etc.)
  • Identifying and specifying the requirements of the relevant discipline scope and interfacing with other leads and/or external parties as appropriate (all groups/sections related to the ITB buildings (e.g. layout, civil, systems, contracts, hazards and JDO teams))
  • Leading the coordination with the relevant counterparts in the UK, France & Germany.
  • Raising resource conflicts to the Building Manager or Group Lead as appropriate.
  • Maintaining strong links with the Layout Discipline Lead to support the team in terms of competency tracking and development, tools & methods, sharing knowledge and good practises, resourcing, onboarding etc.
The Skills  Essential Qualifications, Experience and Skills
  • Experience in the nuclear industry, preferably on HPC or SZC.
  • Knowledge of Layout competency and of 3D modelling in PDMS and/or E3D.
  • Knowledge and understanding of engineering design sequences and interfaces.
  • Knowledge and understanding of general layout rules.
  • Ability to manage multiple interfaces.
  • Ability to work to & meet commitments and deadlines.
  • Ability to manage own time and workload.
  • Organisational skills.
  • Communication & interpersonal skills.
  • Excellent stakeholder engagement.
  • Leadership, autonomy and pro-activeness.
  • Promotes a questioning attitude.
  • Fluent English language skills.
Desirable qualifications, experience and skills:
  • Knowledge of several areas of engineering (Piping, Electrical, HVAC, Equipment, Layout, Systems, Civil Engineering, Safety, etc.).
  • French language skills

Electrical Fitter
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent

Electrical Maintenance Fitter

Waste & Recycling

London- Central

£20.50ph + OT – Early & Late shifts

 

 

Introduction

Our Client is one of the UK's leading provider of Environmental solutions, offering a full range of Waste and Energy Recovery services through a vast and growing network of Plants and Facilities across the country and as such they are looking for an Electrical Maintenance Fitter to join one of their key Waste Transfer Stations in London. Working as their Electrical Maintenance Fitter, you will be responsible for carrying out key planned, preventative and breakdown maintenance across the recycling facility on a wide variety of heavy plant and equipment.

 

What you will be doing

As Electrical Maintenance Fitter, you will be responsible for:
  • Preventative maintenance (PPMs) and reactive maintenance across heavy industrial plant, attending to breakdowns as needed.
  • Electrical fault-finding, diagnostics, and route cause analysis techniques
  • Working across all processing plant and overhead equipment
  • Maintenance on PLCs, motors, inverter drives, conveyors etc.
  • Testing and inspection
  • Minimising downtime, ensuring plant runs at optimum performance
  • Troubleshooting
  • Be able to deliver all work set to the operational expectations and budgetary requirements
  • Keep records using internal systems and support in the implementation of IMS.
  • Assisting with RAMS, permits to work and safe systems of work
  • Working as part of a shift pattern
  • Other duties as required.

This is rotating shift pattern of early and late shifts, covering Saturdays on a 1 in 4 basis. Please only apply if this is suitable.

What you will need
  • NVQ Level 3 or equivalent in Electrical Engineering
  • 18th Edition
  • Heavy Industrial experience – e.g. processing plant, waste, manufacturing
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering diagrams and drawings
  • Pneumatic skills and experience
  • Full UK driving licence
  • This is rotating shift pattern of early and late shifts, covering weekends. Please only apply if this is suitable. 
 

What’s on Offer
  • Competitive hourly rate of £20.50ph + OT rates 
  • Full training on internal systems
  • Opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading Waste Management companies

 

How to Apply

If you are interested in this position, please send a CV and Cover Letter to [email protected] or ring 02392 222 964 and ask to speak to Megan Balmer who can tell you more.

Mechanical Calculations Engineer
PERMANENT
  • TERMS: permanent
Astute’s Nuclear team is exclusively partnering with one of the industry leaders in the design of nuclear island projects throughout the UK to recruit a Mechanical Calculations Engineer for its Bristol site. The Mechanical Calculations Engineer role is a key position in the development of the Hinkley Point C project throughout its design phase and comes with a salary of up to £55,000 dependant on experience. If you’re a Mechanical Calculation Engineer and are eager to contribute to a landmark energy project within the Nuclear sector, then submit your CV to apply today.                   Responsibilities and duties Reporting to the Project Management Team, you will:  
  • Oversee and ensure the integrity of the pipe network design and its supporting structures across the Hinkley Point C project.
  • Perform detailed piping calculations and assess HVAC and electrical supports under various load conditions, including dead weight, thermal expansion, and seismic activity.
  • Utilise finite element analysis (FEA) software to conduct mechanical simulations and ensure structural soundness.
  • Develop specialised computational tools, with Python programming being a valuable asset.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to meet design and regulatory requirements.
    Professional qualifications We are looking for someone with the following:  
  • Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including modal and static analysis.
  • Proficiency in mechanical simulations using finite element methods.
  • Programming knowledge, particularly in Python, for computational tool development.
  • Experience with CAD software for design and modelling.
  • Knowledge of the UK design context and regulatory processes and familiarity with industry standards.
  • Innovative problem-solving abilities to address complex engineering challenges.
  • Previous experience with EPR or other nuclear projects.
  • Experience with RSTAB or BEAM STRESS and support calculations.
  • Understanding of RCC-M code (section C3650 minimum).
  • Familiarity with CALTUY/Pipestress software.
    Salary and benefits of the Mechanical Calculations role  
  • Basic salary £45,000 - £55,000 DOE
  • 25 days annual leave per year raising to 28 (x1 day for 2 years service)
  • Enhanced pension scheme
  • Private & family health care schemes
  • Other benefits including employee assistance programmes, income protection and professional memberships (1 per year).
INDNUC