Role: Construction Manager

Location: Hybrid, based from one of our offices in Derby, Manchester or Warrington

About Us

Rolls‑Royce SMR is here to transform how nuclear energy is delivered—cleaner, faster and at global scale. Our teams are developing one of the world’s most advanced small modular reactors, helping secure affordable, low‑carbon energy for generations to come.

We’re doing something that’s never been done before. We’re revolutionising an industry. That’s a once-in-a-career opportunity for those excited by such a challenge. This is more than just a job; this is a legacy.

Role Summary

We are now recruiting for the exciting role of Construction Manager to support the development of a global supply chain and contribute to the delivery of a standardised, repeatable approach to power plant construction.

Reporting to the Senior Construction Manager within the Operations & Construction Readiness Directorate, this role will support the development and implementation of construction readiness activities across the RR SMR programme. The role will contribute to constructability reviews, construction planning, site mobilisation strategies, logistics planning, quality requirements and construction delivery processes.

The role will assist with the management of construction-related risks and opportunities, supporting the development of mitigation plans and monitoring delivery performance against agreed objectives. The Construction Manager will provide technical construction expertise and support the development of construction readiness standards, processes and procedures.

The role will contribute to contractor engagement activities, support procurement evaluations and provide construction input throughout project development and execution phases, ensuring compliance with safety, quality and regulatory requirements.

What we’ll need you to do

• The Construction Manager will support Senior Construction Managers and Programme Managers in the development and delivery of construction readiness activities for RR SMR projects.

• The role will contribute to the development of construction strategies, construction readiness processes, contractor engagement and site delivery planning across multiple programme workstreams.

• Coordinate activities across workstreams, maintain construction risks and actions, support reporting and drive continuous improvement.

• Collaborate closely with clients, contractors, architects, design and internal teams to deliver RR SMR while maintaining the highest standards of safety, quality, and customer satisfaction.

• Support in defining all aspects of construction planning and execution, from design to final delivery.

• Support with defining the requirements for civils supply chain partners and participate in procurement.

• The role will work collaboratively to ensure accurate cost estimation and modify the construction management approach for a repeatable, standardised, modular build in multiple geographies.

• Support in the resolution of any issues or disputes that arise with contractors, or internal teams in a timely and effective manner.

What we’re looking for

• The ideal candidate will have experience of working on complex construction projects and demonstrate the ability to collaborate effectively across multidisciplinary teams.

• The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of working on client-focused construction projects They will be results-oriented with a strong focus on achieving project milestones, cost efficiency and outcome predictability.

• A good understanding of construction processes, tools and digital and client relationship management.

• Knowledge of construction safety standards, quality control, and regulatory compliance

• Work effectively within a matrix organisation, share best practice, support capability development and champion RR SMR values and behaviours.

• Experience of complex programmes with multiple supplier arrangement and client relationship management requirements.             

• You will be results-oriented with a strong focus on achieving project milestones, cost efficiency and outcome predictability.

• A good understanding of construction processes, tools and digital and client relationship management.

• Knowledge of construction safety standards, quality control, and regulatory compliance.

• This is a management role requiring good communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

• Experience of complex programmes with multiple supplier arrangement and client relationship management requirements.

• Strong collaboration and team skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire teams and work in a matrix organisation.

• Degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related professional qualification or accreditation (RICS, ICE or similar).

• Strong experience in construction project management. Experience of large-scale, complex construction projects with a focus on client satisfaction and delivery would be advantageous. It would also be advantageous but not essential if this was civils, nuclear, oil and gas, and/or European construction focused.

• Strong understanding of construction processes, project budgeting, contract management, H&S, and construction law in both the UK and/or Europe.

Location & Ways of Working

This role can be based in Derby, Manchester or Warrington, with flexibility to work between home and the office depending on business needs. There may be some international travel required on an ad hoc basis.

What’s in It for You

A salary between £50,600.00 - £66,500.00, £2,200 benefit allowance, 12.5% bonus opportunity, 6x pensionable life assurance, 50% income protection, 28 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, and a £250 new‑joiner payment—alongside opportunities for development and progression.

Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a competency‑based interview and may be asked to provide evidence of document management capability. This role requires BPSS checks as part of our onboarding process.

Inclusion & Accessibility

We’re committed to building a diverse, inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued. If you meet around 75% of the criteria, we’d still love to hear from you. We’re happy to discuss reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process and offer flexible or part‑time working where possible.

Pay Range:

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Why Join Us?

You’ll be joining a forward-thinking organisation that values transparency, fairness, and innovation. We offer:

•    A flexible, inclusive, and supportive working environment.
•    Opportunities for career growth in a rapidly scaling business.
•    A culture that values diversity, innovation, and continuous learning.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all backgrounds. Inclusivity is important to us, and as a Disability Confident organisation, we are committed to fair, supportive, and continually improving recruitment practices that ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Confidence can sometimes hold us back from applying for a job. But we'll let you in on a secret: there's no such thing as a 'perfect' candidate. If you feel you meet 75% of the requirements for this role, we would love to hear from you.

Also, if you are considering a career move or a sector-jump, please get in touch – we welcome applications from people with transferable skills.

Our Application Process

Due to the safety regulations within the nuclear industry, applicants will be required to participate in additional screening. These are:

•    Obtaining Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance
•    Satisfactory completion of a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
•    Satisfactory completion of a basic financial probity check
 

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