Mechanical Design Engineer

Tokamak Energy is a global leader in fusion energy and high temperature superconducting (HTS) technologies. We work with governments and industry to develop and bring fusion and HTS solutions to market through innovation and strategic partnerships. A major part of this is our end to end capability in HTS systems, from design to manufacturing.

We are the Magnet Systems Partner for the UK Government's STEP Fusion programme, under a £70 million contract running to 2029, working with UK Fusion Energy to deliver HTS magnet systems for the STEP prototype power plant, while also contributing to tokamak systems and plasma integration.

Founded in 2009 as a spin-out from the UK Atomic Energy Authority, Tokamak Energy is headquartered in Oxfordshire, with subsidiaries in the United States and Japan. Today, we employ over 300 people and have secured more than £280 million in investment.

We operate through three divisions:

Fusion - Fusion energy technologies, expertise and testbeds for government and private fusion programmes, including ST40, the world’s highest field spherical tokamak.

TE Magnetics - HTS systems for commercial applications including fusion energy, power distribution, life sciences, and propulsion.

Ridgway Machines - Manufacturing equipment for the superconducting, electrical and wider energy sectors, enabling the rapid industrialisation of HTS products.

About the Role

We’re looking for a talented Mechanical Design Engineer to join our Systems, Design and Materials team at Tokamak Energy. This team plays a critical role in supporting our mission to deliver clean, limitless fusion energy, providing mechanical and systems engineering expertise across tokamak design and operation, vacuum and cryogenic systems, high-temperature superconducting magnets, and test rigs.

In this role, you’ll be responsible for the design and development of mechanical components and assemblies, working closely with stakeholders and subject matter experts to deliver optimised, high-performance solutions. You’ll utilise advanced CAD and CAE tools to bring designs from concept through to real-world application.

Salary guide - £50,000 to £65,000 dependent on skills and experience, plus benefts

What You’ll Be Doing

• Create 3D models and detailed engineering drawings using CAD software
• Deliver mechanical designs across a range of cutting-edge projects and programmes
• Collaborate with stakeholders to define technical requirements
• Perform analysis and simulation (including FEA) to ensure performance, reliability, and safety
• Work with suppliers and technicians to refine designs and resolve engineering challenges
• Select appropriate materials and manufacturing methods, including innovative techniques
• Ensure compliance with relevant standards (e.g., PED, pressure vessel codes, lifting equipment design)
• Produce clear technical documentation and reports
• Participate in design reviews and follow through on actions
• Embed safety considerations in all aspects of design

Health, Safety & Environment

This role includes activities that require pre-employment health screening, such as:

• Working in hot or cold environments
• Handling cryogenic fluids (e.g., liquid nitrogen)
• Working near high magnetic fields
• Handling hazardous materials (COSHH-regulated)
• Operating heavy equipment (e.g., forklifts, cranes)
• Driving and occasional international travel

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

• HNC/D or degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience)
• Working towards or holding professional accreditation
• Strong experience with 3D CAD, PLM systems, and data management
• Proven experience delivering complex mechanical design projects
• Solid understanding of mechanical principles, materials, and manufacturing processes
• Experience with engineering analysis and simulation tools
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Adaptable and able to prioritise in a fast-paced environment
• Awareness of electromagnetic effects in high-current systems (desirable)

Benefits

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays, plus discretionary festive shutdown
• Performance-led rewards including discretionary bonus, innovation and merit schemes
• Share options – a stake in our future success
• Pension and comprehensive financial protection package including death in service and critical illness cover
• Health and wellbeing support, including cash plan and 24/7 assistance
• Ongoing investment in your growth with training and career progression
• Be part of world-changing innovation in Fusion Energy

Important information for candidates

No terminology in the advert or job description is intended to discriminate on the grounds of a person’s age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Every candidate will be assessed only in accordance with their merits, qualifications and abilities to perform the duties of the job.

Pre-employment screening

Please note that the appointment of the successful candidate will be subject to standard pre-employment screening, as applicable to the post. This will include right-to-work, proof of identity and references.

Data privacy

Please note that any personal data submitted to Tokamak Energy as part of the job application process will be processed in accordance with the GDPR and related UK data protection legislation, for more information regarding GDPR please see: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/guide-to-the-general-data-protection-regulation

Equality of opportunity

Entry into employment with the Tokamak Energy and progression within employment will be determined only by personal merit and the application of criteria which are related to the duties of each post and the relevant salary structure. In all cases, ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration. No applicant or member of staff shall be discriminated against because of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.