The UK’s nuclear energy sector is undergoing a major transformation, with new projects driving a surge in nuclear job recruitment.
With significant investments in Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C, the demand for skilled professionals has never been higher.
These projects are critical to the future of British energy security and offer long-term career prospects across a wide range of disciplines.
The UK’s Nuclear Power Stations: A Snapshot
As of February 2025, the UK operates 9 civil nuclear reactors at five locations (8 Advanced Gas-cooled Reactors (AGRs) and one Pressurised Water Reactor (PWR)). These reactors contribute approximately 6.5 gigawatts (GW) to the UK’s electricity grid, accounting for about 15% of the nation’s energy supply.
However, the nuclear sector is at a turning point. Many of the existing AGR reactors are set to be retired by 2035, and the UK government has set an ambitious target of increasing nuclear generation capacity to 24 GW by 2050, ensuring that nuclear energy provides 25% of the nation’s electricity.
With this shift, new nuclear developments like Hinkley Point C (aiming for Unit 1 operation in 2027) and Sizewell C (projected for operation in the early 2030s) are becoming essential to maintaining the UK’s low-carbon energy supply—and with them comes a significant need for skilled workers.
Hinkley Point C: A Hub of Employment Opportunities
Hinkley Point C, located in Somerset, is one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the UK. Once complete, it will generate low-carbon electricity for six million homes and create thousands of jobs across multiple disciplines.
Jobs at Hinkley Point C
The demand for skilled professionals at Hinkley Point C is increasing as the project moves through its construction phases. Key areas of recruitment include:
- Mechanical specialists – responsible for installing and maintaining complex mechanical systems. Roles require expertise in heavy mechanical engineering and systems integration.
- Electrical engineers – crucial for designing and overseeing electrical systems within the plant. Chartered Electrical Engineers with experience in large-scale power projects are highly sought after.
- HVAC technicians – ensuring climate control and air circulation meet strict safety regulations. Nuclear-specific HVAC experience and understanding of stringent safety protocols are essential.
- Pipefitters and welders – needed for the installation and maintenance of critical piping infrastructure. High-level welding certifications and experience with nuclear-grade piping systems are necessary.
- Sector managers – leading teams and ensuring operational efficiency throughout the project. Strong leadership skills and experience in managing large construction or engineering teams are vital.
With construction continuing at pace, these roles are vital in ensuring that Hinkley Point C meets its deadlines while maintaining the highest safety and quality standards.
Sizewell C: The Next Generation of Nuclear Jobs
Following the model of Hinkley Point C, Sizewell C in Suffolk is set to be the next large-scale nuclear project in the UK. Once operational in the early 2030s, it will provide electricity for over six million homes, creating a substantial number of employment opportunities.
Key Recruitment Areas at Sizewell C
Although still in the early stages, Sizewell C is already generating demand for highly skilled professionals, particularly in engineering and construction. Some of the most sought-after roles include:
- Civil engineers – responsible for planning, designing, and overseeing structural projects. Extensive experience in civil engineering for large infrastructure, ideally within the energy sector, is beneficial.
- Site engineers – ensuring that construction is carried out safely and efficiently. Proven experience in overseeing safety and efficiency on complex construction sites is crucial.
- Site agents – coordinating between various teams to keep the project running smoothly. Excellent organizational and communication skills are needed to manage diverse teams and project workflows.
- Senior engineers – overseeing technical aspects of the project and problem-solving key challenges. A high level of technical expertise and a track record of problem-solving in major engineering projects are essential.
With the project progressing, these roles will become even more crucial in ensuring the success of one of the UK’s most important infrastructure developments.
Why Work in the UK’s Nuclear Sector?
The nuclear industry offers long-term, stable careers with excellent salary prospects, particularly in specialist engineering, construction, and operational roles. Other benefits include:
- Job security – With ongoing investments in nuclear energy, demand for skilled professionals is set to rise.
- Career progression – Major projects provide opportunities for long-term career growth and advancement within the sector.
- Competitive salaries – Skilled workers in the nuclear industry often command higher-than-average salaries due to the technical expertise and stringent requirements of the sector.
- Contribution to net zero – Nuclear power is a key player in reducing the UK’s carbon footprint, making it a meaningful and rewarding industry to be part of, contributing to a sustainable future.
Take the Next Step in Your Nuclear Career
With Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C leading the way in nuclear development, now is the perfect time to explore career opportunities in this thriving sector. If you have experience in engineering, construction, or nuclear operations, we want to hear from you.
Submit your CV to Dan Don, Head of Nuclear Recruitment at Astute People, and take the next step in your career today.
